Caravans
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.
Essentials
- Ensure a smoke alarm is fitted and working. This should carry the Kite mark and conform to British Standard 5446 Part 1.
- 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.
- Keep a torch handy for emergencies, do not use candles.
- Make sure everyone knows and can operate escape windows and doors.
- Find out what the fire fighting arrangements on the caravan site are.
- Children are very vulnerable in a fire and even more so in a caravan, because space is limited - never leave them alone.
Care with 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.
When changing cylinders
- Before disconnecting an empty cylinder turn off the valve.
- 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 to test for leaks or around an area in which you suspect there to be a leak. This also applies to electrical appliances, including light switches, as a spark can ignite the gas.
A note about pipework
Fixed appliances should be connected by fixed metal pipework and the flexible piping used to connect the cylinder must only be tubing that is 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 fire
- Get everyone out of the caravan
- Sound the alarm and call the fire service out - dial 999 and ask for fire
- Disconnect the mains electricity if safe to do so
- Ensure the site manager or warden is informed
- Fight the fire if safe to do so using the fire-fighting equipment provided.
