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auto-trail.co.uk
T H E
‘ N E X T G E N E R A T I O N ’
Fire And Safety
Fir
e & Safety
14.
FIRE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
In Case of Fire:
• Get every one out of the motorhome.
• Call the fire brigade.
• Turn off outside gas valve, remove cylinders from vehicle and place some
distance away if possible.
• If it is an electrical fire, always turn off the supply as quickly as possible.
• Tackle the fire only if it is safe to do so.
If Tackling the Fire:
• Tackle from the outside not the inside.
• Stand back about two metres from the motorhome while aiming the
extinguisher at the base of the fire not the flames.
• Once the extinguisher is empty, close the vehicle door and await the fire
brigade. Do not re-enter the vehicle even if the fire appears to be out,
there is always a danger of re-ignition.
Cooker Fires:
• Never use an extinguisher on a flaming pan as there is a danger of
explosion. Always use a fire blanket.
• If possible, try to turn off the gas flame.
• Never throw a flaming pan outside.
• Keep hands away from the flames and smother the flames.
• Pull the blanket tightly over the pan to eliminate oxygen.
• Do not throw the blanket over the fire, calmly place it over the pan paying
particular attention to the handle.
• Do not remove the blanket from the pan until sure the flames are
extinguished and the pan has cooled completely.
Engine Fires
Switch off the engine and get everyone away from the vehicle. Use
extinguishers from outside the vehicle at a safe distance and call the fire
brigade. If the fire begins to develop, leave the area at once as there is
danger of explosion if the fuel tank catches fire.
Smoke Detectors
It is a legal requirement for a smoke detector to be fitted in a motorhome.
Read the instructions carefully and test the detector prior to every trip.
The smoke alarm has a manual override switch to
prevent unwanted operation due to fumes or steam
during cooking. Use of this switch does not prevent
operation if a fire occurs.
The smoke alarm is an ionisation point-type smoke
detector, designed to give early warning of a
developing fire and so give extra time for escape.
The alarm will be set off by even small traces of
smoke and, when fitted in an appropriate way, gives
a warning sound loud enough to wake people from
normal sleep.
Remember that a smoke alarm cannot prevent fires
or reduce the risk of a fire starting. It does not warn
of dangers which may lead to fire such as gas
escapes. Take sensible precautions to reduce
fire risks.
Fire Extinguisher
Your vehicle should be equipped with a dry powder fire extinguisher.
This will either be located near to the entrance door or behind the
drivers seat. You are advised to familiarise yourself of the location
and operation of the extinguisher before using your vehicle.
Fitted Fire Extinguisher in situ
