Top 10 Caravan Safety Tips
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by: Camping and Caravanning Club
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While owning a caravan can provide you and your family the opportunity to tour the countryside at a moment's notice, it's not without potential hazards. There are several steps you should take to ensure the safety of your family and the caravan itself. Here are our top 10 caravan safety tips...
#1 - Put Heavy Objects On The Axle
Don't make the mistake of putting the large, heavy things toward the back of the caravan. Your van could easily begin to pitch back and forth. Instead, place them directly over the axle.
#2 - Put Heavy Objects On The Floor
This goes along with the first tip, but let's clarify: don't put the heavy things in the cupboards. Put them on the floor to maintain control of your caravan.
#3 - Wedge Items
Minimize the amount of room available for items within your caravan to move around while you're driving. If they move around, they could cause damage. Even worse, they could cause your caravan to sway out of control. Wedge them tightly.
#4 - Check The Tyres
Most caravan owners neglect this step. You should do a routine check on the tyres before each trip. Look for bare tyres or signs of excessive wear.
#5 - Install A Smoke Detector
Take a precautionary step and install a smoke detector. When you leave your caravan at a site to explore the surrounding area, the alarm will alert your neighbours if a fire erupts within your van.
#6 - Place A Fire Extinguisher
It's one of those items that are easily forgotten. Take the extra time to buy and install a fire extinguisher near the door. You may never need it. But, if you do, it will be invaluable.
#7 - Shut Down Appliances
When you leave your caravan unattended or go to bed, make sure all of the appliances have been turned off.
#8 - Maintain The Brakes
Have a trained mechanic inspect your caravan's brakes periodically. It may be inconvenient to do so, but it helps to make sure your trip is a safe one.
#9 - Follow The Payload Guidelines
When you purchased your caravan, it came with a handbook. That handbook provides the maximum permissible weight that you can safely pack in your caravan. It's tempting to ignore the limit. But, it's there for your safety.
#10 - Adjust For Speed
When you carry a heavy load in your caravan, the time it takes to accelerate and stop can be difficult to get used to. Watch your speed carefully and leave ample room between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you.
Being Safe With Your Caravan
If you follow the caravan safety tips above, you can all but guarantee that your trip will be fun and worry-free. The key is to pay attention to details, use common sense and plan ahead. Your caravan is meant to be fun and exciting for you and family. Take a few steps to ensure their safety.
About the Author
This article was written on behalf of the Camping and Caravanning club who offer customers a camping in Europe so that everyone can enjoy a great camping holiday
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