AS FAMILIES across Warrington set off on their half-term holidays, Cheshire Fire has issued a warning about the risk of caravan and boat fires.

Fires in confined spaces, such as caravans, spread quickly and can cause serious harm.

Cheshire Fire has urged holidaymakers to bring a working fire alarm on holiday with them and call 999 if a fire does break out.

Nick Evans, Head of Prevention said: “It’s just as important to have a working smoke alarm inside a boat and a caravan as it is to have one in your home.

“Fire can spread quickly on a boat, even on water and when boat fires do occur they often have devastating consequences, spreading easily and destroying surrounding property. The boats themselves are known to perish completely in a fire.

“If you’re staying in a caravan, always make sure you know what the fire arrangements in your campsite are and where the nearest telephone is.

"Similarly, if you’re on a boat, make sure you know your boat and make a fire action with everyone on board.”

For more information about keeping you family safe on holiday visit cheshirefire.gov.uk/public-safety/campaigns.

Cheshire Fire's Safety Advice

FIRE SAFETY INSIDE YOUR CARAVAN

• If you smoke, use metal ashtrays – and never smoke in bed.

• Don’t block air vents – if any leaking gas builds up you may fall unconscious and be unable to escape.

• Turn off all appliances before you leave the caravan or go to bed.

• Never use a cooker or heater whilst your caravan is moving.

IF THERE’S A FIRE IN YOUR CARAVAN

• Get everyone out straight away.

• Call the fire and rescue service and give your location with a map reference, if possible, or provide a nearby landmark, like a farm.

FIRE SAFETY IN YOUR BOAT

• Optical sensor alarms with hush buttons and ‘sealed for life’ batteries are best for boats. Visit www.boatsafetyscheme.org/fire for advice and guidance.

• Fit alarms in places you will hear them clearly if they go off.

• Push the button on the alarm to test it regularly.

USE GAS LEAK INDICATORS

• Fit a bubble type gas leak indicator in the LPG cylinder locker.

• Push the gas leak indicator test button routinely to check for leaks

in the gas system.

WHAT TO DO IF THERE’S A FIRE IN YOUR BOAT

• If in doubt, don’t fight a fire yourself. Get out, stay out and call 999.

• Do not enter a smoke filled space. If you are already in a smoke filled space keep low down where the air is clearer.

• If you need to break glass to escape use a blanket to prevent injury.