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
