Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service remind you that having a working smoke alarm in your caravan dwelling, is just as important as the one in your home. It needs to be tested frequently to check it works.

In a fire, caravans and campervans have limited escape options in fire and being made of lightweight and highly combustible fittings, fires can take off frightenly fast. You would have just a few seconds to get out of a burning caravan. The warning a smoke alarm gives can mean the difference between life and death.

Top Tip

Never bring a BBQ inside as the carbon monoxide that they produce can kill you. Carbon monoxide (CO) is difficult to detect because it is colourless and has no taste or smell. People often don’t realise that they are being overcome by fumes until it is too late.

Tips

So to help keep everyone safe, follow our simple tips:

• ensure caravans are parked at least six metres apart and away from vehicles to reduce the risk of fire spreading
• make sure you know what the site’s fire safety arrangements are
• keep a torch handy for emergencies – never use lighted candles
• have a dry powder fire extinguisher located near the door 
• take special care when cooking- don’t leave pans unattended
• keep matches and lighters out of reach of children
• don’t leave children alone inside
• keep the caravan ventilated, if the air vents get blocked this can be fatal
• turn off all appliances before you go out or go to bed.
• make sure ashtrays are made of a material that won’t burn – and never smoke in bed.
• don’t dry clothes over a stove.
• remove any rubbish near your caravan – this will reduce the risk of fire spreading.

In the event of a fire, get out, stay out and call 999

Gas cylinders (LPGs)

You should take special care when handling gas cylinders (LPGs).

Follow these safety tips:

• install a carbon monoxide detector
• keep gas cylinders outside your caravan, They should be turned off unless they are designed to run continuously (such as a fridge)
• change gas cylinders only when they are completely empty
• make sure the new cylinder is secure before connecting it
• do not turn on the cylinder valves before the connection is complete
• before going to bed, or leaving the caravan, turn off all appliances
• if you suspect a gas leak, turn off all appliances and the main cylinder value, open all doors and windows and do not smoke or turn on any electrical switches or appliances until you have been given the all clear
• spare and empty cylinders should be kept in the open air and secured by a safety strap or other quick release device