Whether you are a regular caravan user or take to the road only a few times a year, safety is always paramount, and so it is essential to make sure everything is in good working order before hitting the road.
Manufacturers recommend that recreational vehicles (RV) should be professionally serviced regularly, but it is always a good idea to take some extra precautions before setting off on that short break or extended holiday.
The Caravan, RV & Accommodation Industry of Australia (CRVA) as the peak national tourism body has put together a number of simple checks that you can do at home before leaving on your next caravanning experience to ensure your trip is a safe one.
Fundamental safety checks
Tyres are one of the most important parts of your vehicle, so it is essential that you check them regularly both before and during your holiday.
First, always check the service description engraved on the tyre listing the maximum load and speed ratings which drivers need to adhere to.
Minor surface cracks are part of the normal aging process but deeper cracks exposing cords within the tyre casing need to be replaced. Tyre experts Beaurepaires recommend that tyres more than six years old must be changed, even if the tread has more than the required legal minimum depth remaining.
If tyres appear damaged, make sure they are checked by a qualified professional before setting off. Be careful when storing tyres for long periods as exposure to direct sunlight, ultra violet light, heat, oil, grease and other solvents can cause the rubber to crack.
Tyres aside, wheel bearings, brakes and tow hitches all need to be checked and greased properly before your vehicle will be ready to travel. Make sure you correctly couple the caravan to the tow vehicle, two chains should normally be fitted and ‘criss-crossed’ before attaching onto secure points on the towbar.
If you have any doubts at all, make sure you consult a professional. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Test your equipment
When on the road, your RV is your home away from home so keeping everything in good working order should be a top priority.
Before heading off make sure you have a good look inside the vehicle and test whether anything needs to be replaced or repaired.
In terms of safety, gas bottles should be checked to ensure they are not past their use-by date and that there is plenty of gas remaining. The same goes for fire extinguishers as they should be serviced every 6 months and pressure tested every five years by a qualified professional. Keeping a fire blanket close to the kitchen is also recommended in case of any cooking accidents.
Cupboards, refrigerators, windows and other interior fittings need to be secured and all hinges and locks should be checked that they are still in good condition, test all light bulbs and be sure to keep some spares handy.
Plug in the electrical cable between the vehicle and caravan in order to check all indicators, tail lights and electric brakes (if fitted) to ensure they are in good working order.
Before leaving on your journey, always release the caravan handbrake and do one final inspection by walking around the vehicle. Make sure the jockey wheel is raised and electrical leads aren’t still connected, it can be very embarrassing and dangerous if they are!
If you do get into trouble while on the road, most caravan dealerships offer service facilities and carry a wide range of spare parts that should get you up and running again.
Whether your vehicle is brand new or much-loved, the exterior should be kept sparkling clean. Any rust in older models should be patched up before giving your RV a good wash, which can transform even the grimiest vehicle. For some expert help, Vantec Caravan Protection offers total caravan protection systems for both old and new.
Also, speak to your manufacturer as some offer professional detailing services, which can have your pride and joy looking good as new again.
Final preparations
Checking your equipment is crucial but there are also a number of things worth considering before leaving on your Australian holiday.
Check the weather report for the area you will be visiting, this way you can plan ahead to avoid potentially bad weather. If you get caught in a thunderstorm, don’t take shelter under a tree – your car is a much safer place.
Tell a friend or relative when you are going, when you will return and leave an itinerary with them including your car license number. It is also good to get a satellite phone if you are going to remote locations- be sure to give this number to friends and relatives too.
Learn basic first aid advice and always have a first aid kit handy on your trip. CRVA recommends that caravanners/campers contact organisations such as the Red Cross which offer excellent courses in basic first aid.
Campfires can be dangerous so make sure you keep them to a contained area with a ring of rocks and an outer ring of gravel or dirt to prevent spreading and keep a close eye on children.
Finally, don’t rely solely on GPS navigation as travellers have been caught out before, make sure you pick up a good quality Australian map just in case. Hema make good quality maps and are available online and in map stores throughout Australia.
The CRVA has plenty more tips on safety, caravanning and camping, on their website, www.welovethiscountry.com.au. While there, be sure to join their free VIP club to be up to date with the latest news, travel, products, deals and competitions around Australia.
Australia offers a spectacular range of unique experiences and adventure, so get out there and enjoy it!
Ben Yates,
CEO of the Caravan, RV and Accommodation Industry of Australia
