Caravaning

Caravans can be potentially more hazardous in a fire than a house because they are smaller and more confined, with minimal fire resisting separation between compartments. It is therefore essential that a smoke alarm is fitted to give early warning of a fire. If you own a touring caravan or are going to a static caravan on a caravan site, it is important to follow the steps listed below.

Be Prepared

• Find out what the firefighting arrangements on the caravan site are.
• Children are very vulnerable in a fire and even more so in a caravan because space is limited so never leave them alone.
• Make sure there is either a fully charged water or dry powder extinguisher located inside the caravan near an exit door and a fire blanket located adjacent to the cooking area.
• Ensure a smoke alarm is fitted and working.
• Keep a torch handy for emergencies, do not use candles.
• Make sure everyone knows and can operate escape windows and doors.

Bottled Gas

• Extreme care is required as gas cylinders may explode in a fire.
• Keep cylinders outside the caravan unless a special ventilated compartment is provided inside.
• Before going to bed or leaving the caravan for some time turn off all appliances. The cylinder should also be turned off unless an appliance such as a refrigerator is designed for continuous running.
• Never use a cooker or heater while travelling.
• Before disconnecting an empty cylinder turn off the valve and reconnect the full cylinder before turning on the valve.

If you suspect a leak:

• Turn off all appliances.
• Do not smoke.
• Ventilate by opening doors and windows.
• Use soapy water and watch for bubbles to detect the leak, never use a naked flame.
• Fixed appliances should be connected by fixed metal pipework and the flexible piping used to connect the cylinder must only be tubing especially designed for use with bottled gas.

Portable Equipment

For maximum safety all equipment must be fixed. The use of portable appliances - heaters, cookers or lighting - is therefore not recommended and should be avoided. Remember Portable Appliances are liable to be knocked over as space is limited and they may fall over if a caravan rocks in a high wind.

In The Event of a Fire

• Get everyone out of the caravan.
• Sound the alarm and call the Fire and Rescue Service.
• Disconnect mains electricity if safe to do so.
• Turn off gas cylinder if it is safe to do so.
• Ensure the site manager/warden is informed.
• Fight the fire if it is safe to do so using the firefighting equipment provided.