General and fire safety

On the road

Before setting out:

GAS: Make sure the fridge is on electric (12v). It is an offence to run a fridge on gas, especially at garage forecourts. Close valve on cylinder or holding tank. Cylinders must be kept in an upright position with valve uppermost. The gas cylinder compartment must be ventilated. Annually check the condition of all gas pipes and joints. If you detect a gas leak turn off supply at cylinder/holding tank. If using raw detergent to detect leaking joints, avoid the solution getting on copper pipe and brass fittings. ELECTRIC: Wiring components should be fused with the correct rated fuse. Exposed terminals should be insulated to avoid shorts. Annually check the condition of wiring and fuel lines. Wires should not run under carpets where they can be nicked or squashed – possibly causing a short circuit.

CHILDREN: If you leave children in the motor caravan alone, remove the cigar lighter and ensure that any matches are safely out of reach. On the move – make sure that children are safely belted up. Check every now and then that they have not undone the harness.

What to do in the event of a fire

Stop as quickly and safely as possible. Turn off the ignition. Get everyone out of the vehicle to a place of safety away from the vehicle. Call the fire brigade. If the fire is small and has not taken hold, you may tackle it with a fire extinguisher – but remember – safety must come first. You are far more important than a piece of machinery. It is insured after all!

If the fire is under the bonnet, release the bonnet catch. Do not open the bonnet fully. Direct the fire extinguisher through the gap. Once the fire is out, keep watch to ensure there is no re-ignition. When fully satisfied that the fire is out, do not open the bonnet for at least half an hour. Do not touch any burnt areas as substances could be carcinogenic or highly corrosive. Disconnect the battery if possible.

Fire in the living area

Soft furnishings will give off dangerous fumes, e.g. cyanide. In 1990 motor caravans were legally required to be furnished with combustion modified high resilient foam in mattresses and cushions. Newer models should have fire resistant fabrics. For older vehicles, one can purchase flame retardent sprays.

Fire at camp sites and rallies

Equipment for fighting a fire must be available. Each vehicle should carry a fire extinguisher – a 1 kilo dry powder (ABC powder) approved to BS/EN3 (previously BS5423). It is preferable to mount the extinguisher by an exit door. A 1 metre square fire blanket is also useful near the cooker. A smoke detector should be fitted and mounted away from the cooker. With open gas fires, one should have a carbon monoxide detector.

Always have a torch available in a place where it can be found in the dark.

In the event of a fire

• Get everyone out of the motor caravan • Sound the alarm • Call the fire brigade (999 or 112) • Tackle the fire ONLY if it is safe to do so • Turn off gas at cylinder/tank