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.