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.
- Never take a smoldering BBQ into a concealed area with no ventilation as the BBQ will give off Carbon Monoxide fumes.
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.
- Never take a smoldering BBQ into a tented area or concealed area with no ventilation as the BBQ will give off Carbon Monoxide fumes.
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.
Fire Safety Leaflet
View the free fire safety leaflet:
Further Information
If you would like free advice on any aspect of fire safety, contact our Freephone Community Fire Safety Helpline on 0800 3581 999.
Any general enquiries should be directed to: 0300 1234 232
View our information on Dialling 999 in an emergency.
