Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue share Caravan safety information
It comes following a caravan fire that took two lives last weekend
Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service are re-sharing important caravan safety information.
It comes after a dad and his daughter were killed in a caravan fire near Skegness last weekend.
Cause of caravan fire that killed two people in Ingoldmells near Skegness was accidental
With a large number of static caravan sites, particularly on the East Coast the service are reminding people to ensure there is a working smoke alarm when staying in temporary or rented accommodation.
There advice also highlights that 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.
Amanda Matson from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service said:
"Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue recognise the severity of the fire and the impact that it has had on the local and wider community, as well as those travelling into the East Coast.
It's important these messages are shared and Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue will continue to deliver these messages over the coming months."
The local service also held an event in Ingoldmells yesterday (11/4) to offer support and reassurance.
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).
You can find out more on the Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue web page.