Caravans and Camping

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Caravans and Camping

Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service and Devon Fire and Rescue Service are working together for a safer community. The information below will help you be aware of the potential hazards whilst camping outdoors.

Caravans

Bottled Gas

Always change cylinders in open air, away from any source of ignition.
Check connections are tight.
Turn off at main valve when not in use.
Keep cylinders outside your caravan.
Before going to bed or leaving the caravan, turn off all appliances. Turn off cylinders unless appliances (such as a fridge) are designed to run continuously.
Never use a cooker or a heater whilst caravan is moving.
If you suspect a leak:
- Turn off all appliances.
- Open all doors and windows.
- Do not smoke.
- Do not operate electrical switches.

Other Hazards

Take care when cooking - don't leave fat pans unattended.
Keep matches out of the reach of children.
If you smoke, use metal ashtrays.
Never smoke in bed.
Children should not be left alone in a caravan.
Keep caravan ventilated. Don't block up air vents - it could be fatal.

Camping

Tents

Allow at least 6m spacing between tents and caravans.
Never use candles in or near a tent. Torches are much safer.
Flammable liquids and Liquefied Petroleum Gas cylinders should be kept outside the tent.
Oil burning appliances are not recommended.
Cooking appliances should not be used in small tents.
Keep cooking appliance away from walls and the roof where it can be easily knocked over.

Open fires

If you must have an open fire:

It should be downwind, at least 10m from the tent.
Clear earth, leaves, etc, to form a circle of earth around the fire.
Build a stack that will collapse inwards whilst burning.
Do not leave fires unattended.
Make sure that fires are fully extinguished.

If a fire should break out

Call the Fire and Rescue Service and give the exact location.
If possible give a map reference.
If this is not possible a landmark such as a farm or pub etc. This will help locate you.

Grass and forest fires spread rapidly

Do not be tempted to investigate.
Leave the area as quickly as possible and ring for the Fire Brigade.
Do not return unless the Fire and Rescue Service tell you that it is safe to do so.