Fire service issue caravan safety advice following recent accident

11 May 2012

Following a recent incident where a gas explosion in a caravan caused two casualties to suffer serious burns, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service have issued a few safety tips to ensure people have a safe and enjoyable camping trip.

Gas cylinders can be dangerous if they are not handled correctly, so here are a few points to follow to keep you safe:

  • Store gas bottles outside on level ground and away from any heat sources.
  • Make sure all cylinder valves are turned off when disconnecting.
  • Regularly check the gas connection for any leaks or faults.
  • Never have a naked light near a gas cylinder.
  • Open the tap on empty containers and store them in a suitable place away from any vehicles.
  • Install a gas detection system as an early warning for any leaks.
  • If you detect a leak, turn off the main cylinder valve.

On average 1,400 fires per year occur in caravans. Here are some safety tips to avoid caravan fires:

  • Install a smoke alarm in your caravan and check it weekly.
  • Never leave cooking unattended.
  • Invest in a fire blanket or fire extinguisher and become familiar with how to use them.
  • Leave a gap of at least 6 metres between caravans and vehicles to avoid the risk of fire spreading.
  • Make yourself aware of the campsite’s procedure in case of fire and stick to it.
  • Make sure you know where the nearest telephone point is.

If your caravan catches fire, make sure that you do the following:

  • Get out as quickly and safely as possible.
  • Stay well back from the caravan and do not make any attempt to go back inside.
  • Call 999 as soon as possible giving your exact location and map reference or landmark where possible.

For more information on fire safety in caravans, visit the website: www.communities.gov.uk/documents/fire/pdf/144278.pdf

 

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