[22 June 2007]

The Hazards of the great outdoors.

A long warm summer is what we’re all hoping for, however like many changes in season it brings with it associated risks. If you’re intending to make ready your caravan, dust off your tent, or sort out your rucksack you should go armed with some safety advice before heading for the great outdoors:

Caravans

Gas cylinders:

• Keep cylinders outside of your caravan.
• Before going to bed or leaving the caravan, turn off all appliances. Turn off cylinders at the main valve unless appliances (such as a fridge) are designed to run continuously.
• Never use a cooker or a heater whilst the caravan is moving.

If you suspect a leak:

• Turn off all appliances.
• Turn off the main valve on the cylinder.
• 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 large stable metal ashtrays.
• NEVER smoke in bed.
• Young children should not be left alone in a caravan.
• Keep caravan ventilated. Don’t block up air vents it could be fatal.

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 LPG cylinders should be kept outside the tent.
• Oil burning appliances are not recommended.
• Cooking appliances should not be used in small tents.
• Keep cooking appliances away from walls and the roof and where they 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 dry vegetation, 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 after use.

If a fire should breakout:

• Call the fire brigade and give the exact location.
• If necessary give a map reference.
• If this is not possible a landmark such as a farm or pub etc, will help us to locate you.

Grass and forest fires spread rapidly:

• Do not be tempted to investigate.
• Leave the area as quick as possible and ring 999.
• Do not return unless Fire crews tell you that it is safe to do so.

[Allison Gilson]