Keep the beers cold and the family safe these school holidays

The spring school holidays have arrived which means tents, camper vans and caravans are getting their annual time to shine all around Queensland. Roughing it while camping is a thing of the past, these days all of our electrical appliances, gadgets and technology now join us on the trip. Electricity is our friend on these holidays, it keeps our beers cold, provides light in the dark and keeps the kids entertained, but electricity needs to be treated with extra caution in caravans and tents. Check out our tips for electrical safety before hitting the road.

1. Check your leads, supply inlets and accessories for any damage. Any worn or damaged items should be repaired or replaced.

2. When connecting to a caravan park site facility, check that the socket outlet has a safety switch. If the on-site connection point does not have safety switch protection, it is recommended that a portable safety switch be used.

3. Use one continuous extension lead length and ensure the lead does not cross any vehicle tracks or block access ways. Keep leads tucked out of the way as best as possible; electricity in damp areas such as grass or canvas can be potentially fatal.

4. If you are using a generator, only use it in a well ventilated area to minimise the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning

NOTE: Caravans use a 15A outlet to comply with Australian New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3001, which deals with portable and relocatable premises and their associated supplies. Any plug will fit into any socket of an identical or higher rating, but not vice versa. Therefore the 15A outlets will not plug into your standard 10A household outlets. Caravan parks are required to comply with the standard and their pillars should all have 15A sockets on them. If your van is normally parked at your home, we can assist you to install a 15A outlet to provide you with a safe and reliable power supply.

Drive safely and enjoy your holiday.