Camping, barbecues and greater enjoyment of the outdoor environment have the potential to cause a devastating fire, leading to the Island’s Community Fire Safety team urging people to take simple precautions to stay safe this summer.

So if you are so inclined, you might be heading to the great outdoors for some summer fun. Whether it’s in a motor home, a tent or just out for a barbeque there are some safety tips you should adhere to.

Camper vans, motor homes and caravans – fit a smoke detector

If you have a camper van, motor home or caravan it is a good idea to fit a smoke detector. In the event of a fire in a small enclosure the smoke produced can and will render any occupant unconscious very quickly. Several detectors are currently on the market, which are a combination of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If you have gas appliance on your vehicle then a carbon monoxide detector is a must.

Camping fire safety precautions

If you are camping, before you pitch your tent, make sure there are at least six metres between your tent and any other. In the event of a fire this gap should prevent the flames travelling from tent to tent. Fire in a tent or motor home can spread very quickly, so get everyone out straight away. Call the fire brigade and give an exact location. If you are not on a designated campsite or are not sure of your exact location then try and give a landmark such as a pub, farm or church. If you have a map reference, this can also be used to locate you by the emergency services joint control room. Take care when cooking and never cook or have any naked flames inside you tent. Keep matches and lighters away from children and never smoke inside your tent.

If you have a motor home make sure that any gas cylinders are kept in their designated place, do not store them inside the vehicle. Before going to bed or leaving the vehicle make sure all the appliances are turned off, unless they are designed to run continuously, such as fridges. Never cook whilst the vehicle is moving, all occupant should be sat down with their seat belts on. If you suspect a gas leak do not operate any device which may create a spark. Evacuate the vehicle leaving doors and windows open to allow for ventilation, and call the emergency services via 999.

Barbecues

If you are having a barbeque make sure it is in good working order, and if it’s a gas device, that it has been serviced regularly. Keep a bucket of water, or sand nearby in case of emergencies. Make sure your barbecue is sited well away from any trees or shrubs and is on level ground. Keep children and animals away from the barbecue and never leave it unattended. When you have finished, wait until the barbecue has cooled down before you try and move it.  And remember, operating a barbecue whilst under the influence of alcohol is a recipe for disaster. 

Countryside

As a final point, if you are out and about in the country be aware that a cigarette end, a discarded bottle or a small fire can end up causing a devastating fire, putting both human and animal life in danger and causing untold damage to the countryside as well as potentially destroying a farmer’s living.

Have fun this summer but take care with fire.

Anyone requiring fire safety advice can contact the Fire Safety Team on 647329 or email cs@gov.im