As mobility scooters become more common on our roads and pavements, unfortunately so has the number of reported thefts.
“Pensioner's mobility scooter stolen from outside cemetery while victim was visiting a relative grave“
Liverpool Echo
“Mobility scooter stolen in Nailsworth”
Stroud News and Journal
“Two mobility scooters stolen from Bedale”
Harrogate News
So, how can we help prevent the theft of mobility scooters? At www.help-my-mobility.org, we decided to research ways to secure your mobility scooter, whether at home or when out and about.
We have reviewed three different types of security devices to see which is the most effective:
1. Cable Lock
2. Alarm
3. Wheel clamp
We will be marking the three devices based on; visual deterrence, physical deterrent/effectiveness and ease of use.
Cable Lock
Easy to use and cheap to buy. But you are reliant on finding something secure to attach the cable too, which is not always possible when out and about. A good quality cable lock can offer an effective deterrent if attached securely to the scooter and a solid anchor point. If no anchor point can be found the cable is ineffective. Ensure that the where the cable is attached to the scooter cannot be removed such as the seat.
Cost: £17.49
Visual Deterrent: 4/5
Effectiveness: 4/5 if used correctly
Ease of Use: 4/5
Alarm
An audible alarm can be fitted to the scooter relatively easily. It took us approximately 15 minutes. We managed to fit the alarm under the footrest, with just about enough space. Before ordering its worth checking that you have somewhere to fit the alarm, and too order the smallest one you can.
The alarm operates on movement, so if someone moves the scooter when the alarm is activated it will go off. The alarm we fitted could be switched on and off via a remote control. You could also buy stickers to show the scooter is alarmed.
Cost: £17.95
Visual Deterrent: 0/5
Effectiveness: 4/5
Ease of Use: 5/5
Wheel clamp
We managed to source a wheel clamp which adjusted to fit larger mobility scooters. Before you order ensure there is sufficient clearance around the wheels to fit. The wheel-clamp we purchased would fit wheels which where 10cm of wider. It is fairly large and probably not a device you would take with you to use when out and about. It was also fairly heavy and not the easiest device to fit.
Cost: £17.99
Visual Deterrent: 5/5
Effectiveness: 5/5
Ease of Use: 2/5
Conclusion
Probably the most effective deterrent is keeping your scooter in a locked garage or shed out of view. Even if this is the case, or you do not have a garage or shed additional security is always advisable. In fact your insurance company may insist on it.