Fire safety in caravans

Caravans have different fire risks to buildings – mainly because they are small enclosed spaces and have hazards like gas cylinders.

Basic fire safety advice

You should always:

Fit a smoke alarm
Have at least one fire extinguisher, which you should put near the caravan’s exit
Make sure the cooker is not left unattended
Make sure furnishings and foam insulation are ‘fire-retardant’, which means they don’t catch fire easily
Only store safety matches. Vibration could set off non-safety matches
Make sure you know the contact details of the local fire and rescue service (opens new window)

You should take special care when handling gas cylinders. Follow these safety tips:

Install a gas detection system, if possible
If you think there is a gas leak, turn off all appliances and the main cylinder valve, and open all the doors and windows
Change gas cylinders only when they are completely empty
Make sure the new cylinder is secure before connecting it
When changing cylinders, make sure all cylinder valves are turned off before disconnecting
Do not turn on the cylinder valves before the connection is complete
Spare and empty cylinders should be kept in the open air and secured by a safety strap or other quick release device