DEVON & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service is reminding people that having a working smoke alarm in your caravan or trailer is vital as the vehicle is such a small, confined space.

In a fire, caravans and campervans have limited escape options as they are made of lightweight and highly combustible fittings, a fire can take off frightenly fast.

You would have just a few seconds to get out of a burning caravan, which has limited escape options.

The warning a working smoke alarm gives can mean the difference between life and death.

They are designed to detect fire in its early stages and can give you those precious few moments to get out safely.

The fitting of a carbon monoxide detector is as important.

Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste or smell and can be produced by appliances that use gas, wood, oil or coal.

Carbon monoxide can also be present in smoke from solid fuel or oil appliances.

It is potentially fatal and even low-levels of the poison can cause lasting damage to your health.

If you live in a caravan or trailer remember to follow basic fire safety precautions.

*Fit a smoke detector in your caravan - smoke alarms are the first line of defence against fire. Find out about firefighting arrangements on the site.

*Keep a torch handy for emergencies - do not use a lit candle.

*Take care when cooking - don't leave fat pans unattended.

*Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.

*If you smoke, use suitable metal ashtrays - never smoke in bed.

*Keep the caravan ventilated and don't block up air vents - it could be fatal.

*Before going to bed or leaving the caravan, turn off all appliances.

*Fit smoke alarms with a hush button. Check them once a week, clean it once a month and change the battery once a year.

*Check all gas fittings. Use arrester valves on gas bottles and make sure your home is adequately ventilated.

*Get a registered Corgi gas fitter to fit and regularly service any gas appliances.