In The Event of a Caravan Fire
What you should do
In the unfortunate event that a fire does break out in your caravan, the first step is extremely simple. GET OUT, DIAL 999 ASK FOR FIRE BRIGADE. Make sure you and anyone in the caravan is evacuated as soon as possible, only then should you think about whether or not you can tackle the blaze yourself. Due to caravan construction, caravans once alight will burn very quickly. It’s always worthwhile to familiarise yourself and others with the escape route in the event of a fire. If the main exit is blocked by the fire, then you need to have a backup plan in mind. This could be a window or back door. This way, if an emergency does occur, everyone will know what to do and can quickly and safely leave. If the fire is small enough, you might be able to deal with the fire yourself. However, it’s important to use the correct kind of fire extinguisher. There are fire points around the park with Britannia P50 multi fire classification fire extinguishers. This unit can be used on Class A, wood paper and textiles. Class B, flammable liquids & electrical equipment fires, however safety is paramount at all times. Fire blankets can also be used to tackle cooking origin type of fire. Caravan owners can purchase their own fire extinguishers, however they require regular maintenance.
Please note: Findhorn Sands does not endorse fire extinguisher usage for untrained persons and the decision to fight a fire is the responsibility of the caravan owner. Findhorn Sands will not be responsible for further damage or injury to any person attempting to use a fire extinguisher
Heating your caravan or lodge safely
When using heaters, remember:
• Never dry clothes on or right next to the heater.
• Make sure the heaters work properly.
• Use a Gas Safe engineer to check or fix your gas heaters.
When using solid fuel burners, remember:
• Always follow instructions for use.
• Never overload the burner, and only burn fuels that are recommended by the manufacturer.
• Keep your burner clean – brush out flue passages once a month.
• If you have a chimney, get it swept once a year.
• Your burner should be installed and regularly serviced by a competent engineer.
• Ensure the room is well ventilated.
• If you are burning wood it must be dry and well-seasoned – this usually takes about two years.
Smoke Alarms
The warning a smoke alarm provides can save your life. What type of fire alarm is best for your caravan or lodge? We recommend a smoke detector outside the bedroom area and a heat detector in the lounge/kitchen area. There are various wireless interlinked battery type smoke and heat alarms on the market which we recommend having within your caravan or lodge if not already provided. You might also be interested in finding out about carbon monoxide alarms for the gas heaters or gas boiler installation.
Candles, smoking and lighters
• Do not leave candles unattended and always ensure candles are secure.
• Smoke outside rather than inside.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
• Use battery operated candles rather than real ones.
Electrical safety
• Turn off all appliances before you go to bed.
• Don’t run electrics from one mobile home to another.
• Don’t overload sockets – using an adaptor with a lead is safe. Do not use extensions with heavy load output equipment i.e heaters, kettles, microwaves or toasters.
Cooking in your caravan
• Take extra care when cooking with hot oil.
• Never leave cooking unattended.
• Keep pan handles out of children’s reach.
• Do not use stoves or BBQs inside or too close to your caravan.
Outdoor safety checklist
• Ensure your caravan is at least six metres away from other caravans on the park depending on the pitch. (that’s roughly the length of three people standing in a line with their arms out).
• Find out where your nearest fire hydrant is and ensure it is not blocked by parked cars.
• Remove any litter and rubbish near the caravan to reduce the risk of fire spreading.
Gas safety
• Turn off mains gas when your caravan in unoccupied.
• Turn of gas cylinders when your caravan is unoccupied.
• Store cylinders securely adjacent to your caravan.
• Only change gas cylinders in the open air and when they are completely empty.
• Don’t store fuel under your home or in direct sunlight.
• Make sure flammable liquids are stored away from children.
• Make sure the gas pipe connection is secure – if you suspect a leak, turn off the main cylinder valve.
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher
The caravan licence requires the provision of fire extinguisher points around the site. There are fire points around the park with Britannia P50 fire extinguishers contained inside. This unit can be used on Class A, wood paper and textiles. Class B, flammable liquids. Electrical fires. If you do need to use a fire extinguisher, then stay calm and follow the PASS method. This is as follows:
P – Pull the pin at the top of the fire extinguisher.
A – Aim the nozzle of the extinguisher at the fire, maintaining a safe distance.
S – Squeeze the handle of the fire extinguisher to release the extinguishing agent.
S – Sweep the extinguisher from side to side, ensuring you cover the base of the flames.
Findhorn Sands does not endorse fire extinguisher usage for untrained persons and the decision to fight a fire is the responsibility of the caravan owner. Findhorn Sands will not be responsible for further damage or injury to any person attempting to use a fire extinguisher.