Caravanners take fire safety seriously, according to our latest poll

Regular fire and gas safety checks are an important part of safe caravanning, and the results of our latest Caravan Guard community poll suggest most caravanners are taking those checks seriously.

We recently asked touring caravan owners: Do you regularly test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms or check gas hoses?

Almost 100 caravanners took part in the poll, with the majority saying they carry out checks regularly before heading off on tour.

The fire safety poll results

Here’s how caravanners voted:

Pre-trip fire safety checks

It’s reassuring to see that almost half (48%) of the respondents said they check their fire safety equipment before every trip. Building simple safety checks into your touring routine can help spot issues early and provide peace of mind while away.

Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and gas hoses all play a vital role in caravan safety, particularly when using heating or cooking appliances or powering the fridge during trips.

Seasonal checks still popular

A third of caravanners said they tested their safety equipment once or twice a season, which is another sensible approach for owners who tour regularly throughout the year. Annual checks also remain common, often tied in with caravan servicing schedules or pre-season preparation.

A reminder for the few who rarely check

While only a small number admitted they “rarely or never” carry out checks, the poll highlights the importance of keeping fire and gas safety on the radar.

Thankfully, caravan fires are relatively uncommon, but when they do happen, they can be devastating and potentially lead to major insurance claims and injuries.

Simple checks only take a few minutes and can help reduce the risk of problems developing while on site or in storage.

Essential caravan fire safety gear

If you’re unsure what equipment your caravan should have on board, or what to check before travelling, our guide to caravan and motorhome fire safety gear covers the essentials, including:

• Smoke alarms
• Carbon monoxide alarms
• Fire extinguishers

• Fire blankets
• First aid kit

Keeping your caravan protected

Good maintenance and safety awareness go hand in hand with having the right specialist insurance. Caravan Guard’s specialist touring caravan insurance is designed to help protect your caravan should the unexpected happen, giving you extra peace of mind while touring.

A big thank you to everyone who voted in the poll. Let us know what you make of the results in the comments.