Fiery end to one family's holiday

Fire chief urges more precautions

More care needed to prevent RV fires

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NEW South Wales' fire chief has urged caravanners and campers to take more care after figures revealed firemen dealt with 131 caravan and mobile property fires last year.

"There is something special about camping, being in the outdoors with family and friends, but it can turn into tragedy," Fire Commissioner Greg Mullins warned.

"Whether you're holidaying in a caravan or a tent, you need to take the same fire safety precautions you would in your home."

In the past 10 years, FRNSW firefighters have attended nearly 1000 incidents in caravans, campervans and mobile homes, with more than 60 injuries and eight fatalities.

Commissioner Mullins said there were 131 caravan and mobile property fires last year, with 42 occurring during the Christmas holiday break.

"Working smoke alarms are mandatory in all new and existing moveable dwellings where people sleep, regardless of whether they're registered for road use or not," he said.

Commissioner Mullins said campers should be cautious with open flames around tents and caravans, including cigarettes.

"Care needs to be taken in caravans parks and camping areas, where vehicles and tents are close together and fire can spread between them," he said.

Caravan and camping safety tips:

*  Have a fire extinguisher and a fire blanket and know how to use them.

*  Know the name of the park or the street name or location of your caravan in case you need to ring triple 000, or
 download the free "Emergency +" app to your smart phone. This free app is available from your app store and will instantly tell you your street location and GPS coordinates.

*  Know where the nearest hose reel or evacuation point is in the park.

*  Make sure all your family and friends know what to do and where to meet in an emergency.

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