Staying Safe

The pure enjoyment of the open road is what everyone wants to experience. You get the satisfaction of a road trip to an unexpected, interesting or hidden gem of a destination only by staying safe. So, with that in mind, here’s a list of things that will keep you safe and help stop you from doing a Mike Jagger and complaining that you, ‘don’t get no satisfaction.’

Maintenance safety

• Even if your caravan is regularly maintained, you should always do an extra maintenance check well before heading off. If it’s been more than six months since your last service then book a service at a RV & Caravan Centre.

• Your car should also be well maintained and checked over, especially the oil, water, brakes, rear-view mirrors and battery.

• Remember the saying that each tyre only has a palm sized area of rubber touching the road and keeping you safe – it’s pretty right. That little bit of rubber is keeping you safe, so always check the tread and tyre condition regularly, and see the manufacturer’s handbook for the recommended towing tyre pressure. This tip’s important, so if in doubt head off to a RV& Caravan Centre for an expert opinion.

• As part of your caravan safety checklist, regularly monitor the caravan’s brakes during each trip to make sure they’re not overheating, remembering that caravan brakes do run hotter than car brakes. Again, if they haven’t been checked by a qualified mechanic in six months to a year – do it now – before you start planning your trip.

Fire safety

• It’s a legal requirement to fit a smoke alarm and fire extinguisher in your caravan. Test it regularly so that you know that it’ll work when you need it.

• If you have a portable heater in your caravan, make sure you’re careful about where you place it – keep it away from furniture and all gas, electrical or water fittings.

• When traveling, always listen to local radio stations so you’re aware of any fires or other emergencies on your intended route. When you’re in camp at a caravan park, take a minute or two to read the emergency procedures. You can usually get them at the park office.

Security

• Lock it or lose it – that’s the simple truth. It doesn’t matter if you stop for a quick cuppa or are settled into camp, if you go away from your car and caravan or your motorhome or camper – lock it and keep your valuables out of sight.

• Keep all items in the caravan secure while driving. Close the fridge door, ensure all cupboards, windows and doors are well sealed and closed, and the awning is packed away and locked in.

• Store the jockey wheel safely, either locked into position or securely packed in the car or caravan.

Towing and driving safety

• Towing lessons are a great idea – for beginners or old hands that haven’t towed for a while.

• For further safety and peace of mind, have a product like Al-Ko electronic stability control fitted.

• When traveling, check on the coupling connection and safety chain at every stop.

• When driving, pull over at a safe point if there are cars wanting to get past. If you wish to overtake someone, wait for an overtaking lane rather than crossing to the lane of potential oncoming traffic.

• Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front to allow extra braking distance. Safety should always be your first priority. If in doubt about anything contact an RV&Caravan Centre in Ballina, Port Macquarie or Foster-Tuncurry.

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