Commissioner's Caravan and Camping Safety Message
Published: 2nd January 2007
Are you planning a caravan or camping holiday? Unfortunately, each summer NSW Fire Brigades fire officers are called to numerous caravan and camping fires.
Simple measures like fully extinguishing a campfire before you go to bed and having a properly functioning fire extinguisher in your caravan will mean you are better prepared to avoid a potentially tragic fire.
Follow these fire safety tips for peace of mind while you are enjoying your holiday in the great outdoors:
Camping:
- Use a flame-retardant tent;
- Check to make sure your camping area has mobile phone coverage so you can dial triple zero (000) in an emergency, and if there is no coverage, pre-plan how you can call for help quickly;
- Extinguish cooking fires and turn off lanterns and stoves before going to bed; and
- Never cook or smoke in a tent.
Caravans:
- Have an escape plan in case of fire and make sure nothing blocks your escape route
- Make sure your caravan has a working smoke alarm, a fire blanket and a dry powder portable fire extinguisher stored near the exit; and
- Exercise extreme caution when smoking, extinguish all cigarettes in ashtrays and never smoke in bed.
Contact your local fire station for more information on camping and caravan safety or download our Camping and caravan fact sheet.
Greg Mullins
Commissioner, NSW Fire Brigades