A caravan is a small space with lightweight fittings, gas appliances, a battery system and usually one door. If a fire starts, there’s less time and fewer ways out than in a house. That’s a reason to set up properly before you travel.
The Four Essentials
Fire and Rescue NSW recommends every caravan carry 4 things: a working smoke alarm, a carbon monoxide alarm, a dry chemical powder fire extinguisher, and a fire blanket — with the extinguisher and blanket located near the exit.
- Smoke alarm. Fit a photoelectric alarm near the sleeping area — it responds well to smouldering fires in bedding and upholstery Choose one with a hush button, because in a caravan the alarm will be close to the cooktop.
- Carbon Monoxide Alarm. While a smoke alarm alerts you to a fire in your van, a Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm detects the early presence of carbon monoxide emitted from gas sources such as heating and cooking systems, vehicle engines and fuels.
- Fire extinguisher. An ABE dry chemical powder extinguisher, mounted near the door – compact 1kg and 2.5kg sizes suit most vans.
- Fire blanket. Faster and cleaner than an extinguisher for a fat fire. Keep it near the exit, not next to the stove.
Queensland’s smoke alarm requirements for caravans
Queensland requires smoke alarms in caravans and motorhomes registered or transferred in Queensland since 1 July 2024 to have a compliant 10year sealed photoelectric smoke alarm fitted, and from 1 January 2027 the requirement extends to all registered caravans and motorhomes in the state. Other states have their own rules — check the requirements where your van is registered.
Gas
LPG is one of the most serious fire risks in a caravan. Before each trip:
- Check that gas cylinders are secured correctly to the van, with valves facing away from it
- Inspect all fittings and hoses for wear or leaks — they can work loose from vibration on rough roads
- Turn off pilot lights and cylinder valves before towing, and turn cylinders off when not in use
- Never use a gas cooker or heater while the van is moving
If you smell gas: turn off the cylinder valve, open doors and windows, and don’t operate any switches until the van has cleared.
Electrical
Electrical faults and damaged equipment are a significant fire risk in caravans. Have appliances checked by a licensed electrician, don’t daisy-chain power boards, and charge phones and power banks on a hard surface — never on the bed.
Before you sleep, before you drive
Two habits make the biggest difference:
- Before bed: turn off appliances and heaters, check the escape route is clear, and know where the extinguisher is
- Before driving: turn off gas, check fittings, and turn off non-essential electrics
If a fire starts
Get out, stay out, and call 000. Only use the extinguisher or blanket if the fire is very small and the exit is behind you. Once outside, stay away from the van and the gas cylinders.
In areas with limited mobile coverage, the Emergency+ app uses your phone’s GPS to give emergency services your location. A portable radio keeps you updated on fire restrictions.
Where to buy Quell
Quell smoke alarms suitable for caravans, along with fire blankets and compact ABE extinguishers, are stocked by major retailers.
Quell products are available at:
- Bunnings
- Mitre 10
- Other leading Australian retailers
You can also find your nearest retailer by visiting our Stockist page.