Safety checks for your caravan

It pays to spend a little time getting your caravan ready for the touring season – both in terms of safety and looking after your investment.

Here is a checklist to put you on the right track.

• Tow bar - check the condition and operation of your tow bar – and lubricate if necessary.
• Tyres - check the condition of the caravan’s tyres and replace if damaged, cracked or worn.
• Lights– make sure all rear lights on your caravan are working correctly before setting off.
• Number plate– make sure the number plate on your caravan is intact. Don’t forget to change the number plate if you have bought a new car recently.
• Window seals - replace any rubber window seals that look perished.
• Exterior - clean the caravan body thoroughly with a car shampoo and protect with polish or wax.
• Interior - vacuum carpets, curtains and upholstery. Wipe walls, ceilings, fixtures and fittings with anti-bacterial solution. Leave windows ajar for a few hours on a warm, breezy day to air through. Test to ensure that all kitchen appliances and internal electrics are working correctly.