Smoke alarms in caravans and campervans
Fact
Caravans and campervans have limited escape options in the event of a fire. You may have just a few seconds to get out of a burning caravan as they are made of lightweight and highly combustible materials and fittings. Fires can accelerate frighteningly fast, therefore receiving a warning from a smoke alarm may mean the difference between life and death.
Under NSW laws, from 25 Feb 2011, you must have a smoke alarm installed in all moveable dwellings including:
- campervans
- caravans
- on-site vans
- park vans
- annexes (with rigid sides), and
- any other type of transportable structure where people sleep (except tents and soft sided annexes).
This Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation applies to all new, and existing moveable dwellings.
The law applies to any moveable dwellings in NSW being used for sleeping no matter where the dwelling stands, including in a caravan park, on private property, on Crown land or on the side of the road.
You must have at least one working smoke alarm inside the van where the bed is, and one also in the annex if you sleep there.
The smoke alarm must meet Australian Standards 3786 (AS3786) however Fire and Rescue NSW recommends you install a photo-electric type smoke alarm that is powered by a 10 year, non-removeable, non-replaceable battery.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. This includes on the spot fines of $200, and up to $550 if the matter goes to court. Your smoke alarm must be fitted with a hush button. A hush button will desensitise the alarm for a short period during cooking to reduce false alarms.
Suitable installation locations
You must have at least one working smoke alarm inside the van where the bed is, and one also in the annex if you sleep there.
