How to prevent Caravan Fires

Are you aware of Fire Safety Surrounding Caravans? Whether you live in a Caravan Full Time or you Holiday in one, it is very important to be aware of the following preventative measures to ensure your safety at all times.

Caravans contain and are made of highly flammable materials. Therefore Fire Safety is paramount. Here are some guidelines to follow to increase your fire safety within your mobile home:

fit a smoke detector
fit a carbon monoxide detector
take special care when cooking - don’t leave pans unattended
keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children
if you smoke, use suitable metal ashtrays and never smoke in bed
don’t leave children alone inside
don’t block air vents as this can be fatal
keep a fire extinguisher inside, by the door
keep gas cylinders outside your caravan
before going to bed (or leaving the caravan) turn off all appliances
never use a cooker or heater while your caravan is moving

Caravans use Gas Cylinders as a source of energy. Special care should be taken with Gas Cylinders. Here are some safety tips:

install a gas detection system, if possible
if you think there is a gas leak, turn off all appliances and the main cylinder valve – open all the doors and windows
change gas cylinders only when they are completely empty
make sure the new cylinder is secure before connecting it
when changing cylinders, make sure all cylinder valves are turned off before disconnecting
do not turn on the cylinder valves before the connection is complete
spare and empty cylinders should be kept in the open air and secured by a safety strap or other quick release device

To store fuel in your mobile home, you should:

not store petrol, diesel or gas containers under your mobile home
make sure your gas bottle (LPG) is outside, on level ground, away from heat sources
make sure the connection to the gas pipe is sound and the bottle secured

Fire Safety in Mobile Parks:

When putting your mobile home in position, you should park at least six metres apart from other mobile homes and well away from parked cars.

In addition, make sure you know what the fire arrangements on the camp site are and where the nearest telephone is.

If there is a fire in your caravan:

get everyone out straight away
call the local fire and rescue service and give your location with a map reference, if possible, or provide a nearby landmark, like a farm
remember: get out, stay out and get the fire service out

If you suspect a gas leak: