Firefighters' warning over smoke alarms after three caravans destroyed by fire at Sandford Holiday Park

It comes after shocking pictures revealed the aftermath of the fire at Sandford Holiday Park near Wareham which was caused by an exploding gas cylinder, leaving the caravans completely gutted.

Emergency services were called to the scene just before midday on Thursday.

Now, in a general warning to caravan owners, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging owners to install smoke alarms and check them regularly.

Station manager Stuart Granger, who attended the fire said: "Fortunately, no one was hurt on this occasion, but if the fire had happened a few hours earlier the outcome may have been very different.

"Caravans have limited escape options and as they are made of lightweight and highly combustible fittings, a fire can spread very quickly.

"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."

Anyone who lives in or uses a caravan is urged to follow these fire safety precautions:

n Fit a smoke detector in your caravan

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

n Maintain a safe distance between caravans – including awnings

n Keep the caravan ventilated and don't block up air vents

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

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

Mr Granger added: "I’d like to remind caravan users that maintaining a safe distance between caravans is really important as this can reduce the risk of a fire spreading.

"Crews from Wareham have been out this morning visiting caravan and holiday parks in the local area to remind residents of these important safety precautions."