How to Prevent Mobility Scooter Theft
It is unsettling to believe that anyone would steal a mobility scooter from those who need it most, but it is an unfortunate reality that this happens from time to time. The motivation behind mobility scooter theft is simply because they are an expensive device that can be sold by thieves for some quick cash. It is therefore important to consider taking precautions. If you consciously take preventative measures against theft, you can have peace of mind while out and about on your daily business. Here are our top tips to prevent mobility scooter theft.
Have a secure ignition starter key
By choosing a mobility scooter with an ignition that requires a specific key to start it, you are ensuring that a thief cannot easily drive the scooter away. Having a secure starting ignition key for your mobility scooter also prevents young children from starting it and causing damage to property or injury to themselves. Some older mobility scooters do not require a key to start. For scooters without ignition keys, it is possible to modify the scooter to accept an ignition and key. It is easier, however, to use another method of securing the scooter.
Remove the key when leaving the scooter unattended
This may sound like an unlikely occurrence but many people forget to remove the key from their scooter before going inside a shop, for instance. This gives a thief ample chance to take the scooter away. Keyring bells can be a handy reminder to take out the ignition key.
Use a wheel clamp
A wheel clamp is a strong lock that is independently tested to withstand most tools that thieves use to steal small vehicles such as bicycles. The clamp locks around one wheel and makes it impossible to drive off with the clamp securely in place. A wheel clamp is affordable and simple to use. They are especially useful if you leave your mobility scooter unattended in a public space for long periods of time. A wheel clamp is not always practical if you find it difficult to reach the ground to fit the clamp. If this is the case, our next tip can help.
Fit a scooter tracker
A small device can be fitted to your mobility scooter that uses mobile phone technology to broadcast the scooter’s location in the event that it is moved without consent. You will need some mobile phone know-how, or someone you trust who can help, but this small piece of technology has helped to retrieve many stolen mobility scooters. It is best to talk to your trusted mobility specialist to learn about mobility scooter trackers.
Fit a scooter alarm
Similar to a scooter tracker, a scooter alarm can easily be fitted to a scooter. Once activated (at the press of a button) the scooter will sound the alarm if it is sat on or moved. This will attract attention to a thief and stop them in their attempt to steal the scooter.
Securely store your mobility scooter
Investing in a small shed specifically for your scooter is worth the time and money to protect it. Alternatively, if you live in a flat with a communal area, ask your neighbours if it is practical to leave your scooter somewhere safer overnight than outside.
Alternate your parking habits
If you travel to the same destination on your scooter everyday, consider changing your parking spot every now and then. As good as a regular routine can be, thieves are quick to notice patterns in behaviour and even quicker to spot an easy target for theft. Ideally, you should keep the scooter in sight but if you cannot, then change your parking spot whenever possible.
Check your insurance policy
Make sure you know what you must do to keep your scooter insured against theft. Some insurers will not cover your scooter if it is left unattended without a lock or alarm. Others will not insure the scooter if it is not locked up overnight. To avoid the worst case scenario in which you cannot replace a stolen scooter, know your insurance policy and apply their guidelines to remain covered by the policy. If the scooter is stolen, you’ll be covered and back in the driving seat in no time.
Avoid costly replacements and secure peace of mind today. Protect your mobility scooter with a combination of the tips above, and enjoy improved travel about town for years to come.
Stechford Mobility supply the widest range of mobility aids in the Birmingham, Coventry and Sutton Coldfield areas. Our team have over 40 years of experience and a well-earned reputation, and not just because we stock a wide range of adjustable beds, mobility scooters, powered wheelchairs and stairlifts. The team at Stechford mobility are dedicated to the best service possible and are attentive to customer needs and ready to recommend the best solution for you. We also service and repair mobility aids, so you can be sure of a dependable device at all times. Contact us today – we’ll be happy to help.