SMOKE ALARMS, A REAL MUST IN YOUR RV

WHY SHOULD WE INSTALL A SMOKE ALARM IN OUR RV?

It shouldn’t ever be a question of “Should we“ or “Shouldn’t we“ – a smoke alarm is a “must“ in every caravan or motorhome. Smoke alarms come in many shapes and sizes and should be fixed to the ceiling of your vehicle, just off the bathroom or kitchen area.

Common smoke alarms emit a loud distinctive sound that is triggered by a sensitive photoelectric detector. A smoke alarm operates on a 9-volt unit in any situation, independently of the network. The alarm can be stuck or screwed to the ceiling. Regular testing with a sensing device will guarantee complete reliability.

In Austrilia smoking alarms are already mandatory, the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation applies to all new and existing moveable dwellings where people sleep (regardless of whether they are registered for road use or not). This includes caravans, motorhomes, holiday vans, park van annexes and associated structures. Tents and camper trailers are excluded from the regulation.

While many new RV models may already meet a construction standard requiring working smoke alarms -in countries where it is mandatory-, older models may not be equipped with any or they may not have been properly maintained. Smoke alarms should be tested regularly. Replace any smoke alarms that may be more than 10 years old.

Source: camping cars & caravans -  FICC