Caravan Safety Advice



Fires in caravans spread very quickly, and often have only one entrance, which means that you need to be especially vigilant to avoid a fire from starting.



Caravan Safety Advice

  • Caravans should be fitted with a smoke detector and have the dry powder fire extinguisher located near the door - optical alarms are usually most effective.
  • If you smoke, use metal ashtrays - and never smoke in bed.
  • Don't leave children alone inside.
  • Don't block air vents - if any leaking gas builds up you may fall unconscious and be unable to escape. Always keep the caravan ventilated. Ensure that air vents are clear - if air vents get blocked, it could be fatal.
  • Turn off all appliances before you leave the caravan or go to bed.
  • Never use a cooker or heater whilst your caravan is moving.
  • When cooking, don't leave any pans unattended.
  • Find out the firefighting arrangements on the camp site.
  • Don't dry clothes over the stove.
  • Keep children away from matches or lighters.
  • Children should never be left alone in a caravan.
  • Remove any litter and rubbish near the caravan to reduce the risk of fire spreading.
  • We recommended that you have the following safety equipment for caravans: fire blanket, smoke alarm, dry powder extinguisher.
  • Gas cylinders should be kept outside the caravan. Gas cylinders should be turned off unless they are designed to run continuously, and you should only change the bottle when they are completely empty.
  • If you suspect that there is a gas leak, turn off all appliances and the main cylinder valve, 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.
  • Never use fuel-burning devices inside the caravan (e.g. disposable barbecues, camping stoves, camping heaters, lanterns, and charcoal grills).