subject: Safety tips for caravan owners [print this page] Safety tips for caravan owners Safety tips for caravan owners
With holiday-makers fearing the return of the ash cloud, caravanning holidays are on the rise. If you are planning a holiday in your own caravan, below are a few safety tips you may want to take on board.
Whilst it might be tempting to think of your caravan as a huge storage space on wheels, it is vital your possessions are loaded correctly. Make sure you don't overload the front locker, if you make the area too heavy and exceed the recommended nose weight limit you unbalance your caravan and car.
Ensure you spread the weight evenly, medium weighted items such as empty water tanks and chairs should be placed on the floor. Heavier items should be placed in the centre of the van; by placing heavy items in over head storage you run the risk of causing a 'snaking' effect on the road. This will cause you to lose control of the vehicle and you don't want to end your holiday before it has even begun!
Frequent travellers treat their trailer as an extension of their home, but with caravans classed as vehicles some forget the most basic safety rules, which is why Caravan insurance is a must. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are always installed in the home, but they are often overlooked in their caravans. Caravans should also be equipped with fire extinguishers and fire blankets, so any accidental cooking fires can easily be put out.
Enhanced caravan security will deter any opportunist around your caravan site. Simply fitting a wheel clamp will make a thief think twice as they take time to remove and increase their chance of being caught. Another option is installing a caravan tracker, similar to a tracking devices found in a car. There are devices on the market designed specifically for caravans and although the initial expense may put you off, it could be the difference between you caravan staying lost or being found.
