Campervan safety: The importance of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

Campervans are compact, and with integrated cooking, heating, and electrical systems, the risk of fire or carbon monoxide (CO) exposure is higher than you might think. That’s why fitting smoke and Carbon monoxide alarms is essential for every campervan owner.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long road trip, this guide covers the safety precautions you need to protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle.

Fire safety in campervans

Campervans, like caravans and motorhomes, are built with lightweight materials to make travel easier. Unfortunately, these materials provide limited protection if a fire breaks out. Each year in the UK, there are hundreds of reported fires in mobile homes, including campervans, often caused by electrical faults or unattended cooking.

Having a working smoke alarm in your campervan is the first line of defence. Fire spreads rapidly in a small space, and early detection can mean the difference between escaping safely and sustaining injury or significant property damage.

Where to fit smoke alarms

• Ceiling placement: Ideally, in the central living area, at least 300mm from walls and light fittings.
• Wall placement: If mounting on a wall, the top of the detection element should be 150–300mm below the ceiling.
• Heat alarms: Place no further than 5.3m from doors or areas where a fire may start.
• Seasonal use: If your campervan is not used year-round, remove alarms during periods of inactivity to prevent battery deterioration, and reinstall at the start of each season.

Recommended FireAngel smoke alarms for campervans include:

• FA6615
• FA6611
• FA6620
• SB1a

It is also recommended to have a fire blanket onboard, to smother any small fires.

For more detailed guidance on fire safety, please visit our fire safety webpage.

Carbon monoxide safety

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless gas produced when fuel doesn’t burn properly, often from stoves, heaters, or generators. Even low levels can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue, and high exposure can be fatal. Children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly at risk.

Installing a Carbon monoxide alarm in your campervan ensures you are alerted to dangerous levels before it becomes life-threatening. While your FireAngel CO alarm is essential for protection, it’s worth noting that some readers search for “carbon monoxide detector”, which is another term used for similar products.

Where to fit CO alarms

• Close to fuel-burning appliances, at a horizontal distance of 1–3m
• Near sleeping areas to ensure the alarm is heard at night
• At head height if mounted on a wall, or at least 300mm from walls if ceiling-mounted
• Avoid placing directly above heat sources, in dusty areas, or near steam vents

Recommended FireAngel CO alarms for campervans:

• FA6813
• FA6812
• FA3322
• FA3820

For more detailed guidance on carbon monoxide protection, please visit our CO safety webpage.

Top Tips for Campervan Fire and CO Safety

1. Never leave cooking unattended, and turn off appliances before sleeping
2. Keep the campervan tidy – remove rubbish and flammable materials
3. Store gas cylinders outside and at least six metres from the vehicle
4. Only change cylinders outdoors and ensure connections are secure
5. Service all fuel-burning appliances regularly
6. Ensure adequate ventilation at all times
7. Keep a fire extinguisher and fire blanket accessible, and know how to use them
8. Ensure alarms are tested monthly and batteries replaced annually
9. Plan for emergencies: know the nearest phone point or download What3Words to share your exact location

Enjoy your campervan adventures safely

Your campervan is more than just a vehicle – it’s a home away from home. By combining reliable alarms with good habits, you can enjoy your campervan adventures with true peace of mind.

By fitting FireAngel smoke and Carbon monoxide alarms and following basic safety measures, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and your property from preventable hazards.