A fire in a motorhome is one of the worst situations imaginable: in a small space, with gas, fuel and flammable materials, fire spreads very fast. When a small fire starts, the first seconds are everything, and having an extinguisher within reach and knowing how to use it can prevent a disaster. Here's what to carry and how. (If a fire isn't under control instantly, get out and call emergency services: your life comes first.)
Why it's essential
The causes of fire in a camper aren't rare: an electrical fault, a gas leak, the cooker, a candle, heat from the heating system. In such a small space, a small fire becomes serious in seconds. An extinguisher lets you tackle a fire before it becomes uncontrollable. It's basic safety, like detectors (see detectors).
Which extinguisher to carry
- ABC powder extinguisher (multi-purpose): the most common and recommended for campers, it works on solid, liquid and gas fires.
- A manageable size with sufficient capacity (a tiny extinguisher runs out in seconds); many people carry at least a 1-2 kg unit.
- Consider a fire blanket in the kitchen: it smothers pan/oil fires (which get worse with water) and is very useful.
- Certified and in date.
Where to place it
The key: accessible and within reach, not buried in a cupboard. Ideally it should be near the exit/door and/or the kitchen area (a frequent source), so you can grab it quickly and, ideally, position yourself between the fire and your escape route. Make sure everyone on board knows where it is.
Maintenance and use
- Check the pressure (gauge in the green) periodically, along with the extinguisher's expiry/inspection date.
- Secure it well so it doesn't shift about while driving.
- Learn how to use it (the PASS technique: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze, and Sweep side to side).
- People come first: if the fire isn't controlled straight away, get everyone out and call emergency services (112).
In short
A fire extinguisher (ABC powder, kept accessible near the exit or kitchen) and, ideally, a fire blanket, are essential for tackling a small fire in the camper within the first few seconds. The step to take today: carry an in-date ABC extinguisher, well secured near the door or kitchen, make sure everyone knows where it is and how to use it, and remember that with an uncontrollable fire the first thing to do is get out and call 112. Pair it with the safety detectors.