Lincolnshire is very popular for touring caravans and motorhomes and also has a large number of static caravan sites, particularly on the East Coast.
When staying in any type of temporary or rented accommodation, a working smoke alarm is just as important as having one in your home.
If a fire breaks out in a caravan or mobile home it is always serious. Always get everyone away from the caravan at a safe distance and call 999 immediately.
Staying safe in a caravan
- All caravans must be fitted with a working smoke alarm. Test the smoke alarms every week and never remove the batteries.
- If you smoke, use metal ashtrays and never smoke in bed or if you are likely to fall asleep.
- Don't block air vents - if any leaking gas builds up you may fall unconscious and be unable to escape. Ensure that air vents are clear - if air vents get blocked, it could be fatal.
- Turn off all appliances before you leave the caravan or go to bed.
- Never use a cooker or heater whilst your caravan is moving.
- When cooking don't leave any pans unattended.
- Find out the firefighting arrangements on the camp site.
- Don't dry clothes over the stove.
- Keep children away from matches or lighters.
- Children should never be left alone in a caravan.
- Remove any litter and rubbish near the caravan to reduce the risk of fire spreading.
- Gas cylinders should be kept outside the caravan. Gas cylinders should be turned off unless they are designed to run continuously and you should only change the bottle when they are completely empty.
- If you suspect that there is a gas leak turn off all appliances and the main cylinder valve, open all doors and windows and do not smoke or turn on any electrical switches or appliances until you have been given the all clear.
- Never use fuel-burning devices inside the caravan (e.g. disposable barbecues, camping stoves, camping heaters, lanterns, and charcoal grills).
If there's a fire
Get out, stay out and call 999.
Give the operator as much detail of your location as you can.
Caravan sites can be spread over a large area, so apps like What3Words or the GPS co-ordinates on your phone can help emergency crews get to you as soon as possible. Send someone to meet the fire crews when they arrive on site.
Fire safety legislation
If you own a mobile home and rent it out you will need to comply with relevant legislation.
Visit GOV.uk's for advice on private renting safety responsibilities or ask your local district council for more information.
