Tamworth fires spark serious safety message
21 January 2010
NSW Fire Brigades Commissioner Greg Mullins today urged holiday-makers to check their caravan
and camping equipment, after a second mobile campervan was gutted by fire in Tamworth
yesterday.
Commissioner Mullins said firefighters were visiting camping grounds in the Tamworth area this
week giving fire safety advice to Country Music Festival visitors and other holiday-makers.
“On Wednesday evening, a leaking gas cylinder caused a campervan blaze when the generator
was switched on. Both occupants had a very lucky escape and were taken to hospital suffering
smoke inhalation and burns,” Commissioner Mullins said.
“Two days earlier, a Sydney couple’s visit to Tamworth was ruined when their campervan was
destroyed and their four-wheel-drive gutted by fire. Firefighters believe the likely cause was a
malfunctioning gas powered fridge.”
Commissioner Mullins said preparation was the key to avoiding a fire tragedy this summer and
recommended caravan owners should install photoelectric smoke alarms in their vans.
“For the cost of a few dollars, smoke alarms save lives. It’s really important that smoke alarms are
installed close to the sleeping areas in caravans.
“You should test your electrical and gas equipment, including barbeques and stoves, to make sure
they are in good working order before you set off.
“Check whether your camping area or caravan park has mobile phone coverage so you can dial
Triple Zero (000) in an emergency or, if not, identify the fastest way to call for help,” he said.
Key fire safety tips for holidaymakers include:
Familiarise yourself with evacuation routes and meeting points at caravan parks and camping
grounds;
Install a photoelectric smoke alarm close to the sleeping area in a caravan and have a fire
extinguisher and fire blanket near the exit; and
Ensure that all electrical and gas equipment, including barbeques and stoves, is tested and in
good working order.
Media Contact:
Nicola Pellegrini, Senior Public Affairs Officer
9265 2613 / 0408 877 479
NEWS 
