Welcome to the October Newsletter from Cowra Neighbourhood Watch. This month, in the leadup to the Community Public Information session and Annual general meeting, the topic is caravan and motorhome safety, prior to leaving home, while on the road and when setting up camp.
Before leaving home on your next adventure, there are a few important safety checks to complete on your caravan and on your tow vehicle. Check the tread depth and pressure on all caravan and vehicle tyres and don’t forget the spares! Incorrect tyre pressures can lead to uneven wear on tyres, increased petrol consumption.
Your ability to steer, brake, and navigate corners may be compromised, increasing the risk of accidents, especially in emergency situations.
Test all interior and external lights, indicators, brake lights, and appliances on both vehicles. Ensure that all batteries are fully charged and hold a good charge.
Inspect gas lines for leaks with soapy water and ensure bottles are secure. Flush and refill water tanks, check for leaks in water lines, and test the water pump. Then flush and refill water tanks and check for leaks in in water lines in both fresh and grey water lines. It is very important to make sure that you haven’t overloaded your caravan or motor home and that your load is well balanced. There are many safety risks and legal consequences for towing an overweight van. Towing an overweight or unbalanced van can lead to vehicle instability, increasing the likelihood of accidents and exceeding weight limits can result in significant penalties including fines from $130 to$1 580 depending on the state.
It’s time to hit the road. Towing a caravan requires a bit of practice and knowledge. Remember to maintain a safe speed and keep a greater distance between you and the vehicle in front. You will need to take wider turns due to the length of the caravan.
Some practice at turning and reversing before your trip will lead to safer outcomes and less frustration on the road.
Before you set off check the weather forecast, so you are prepared for adverse conditions such as high winds or rain and remember to take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
Once you arrive at your campsite, setting up efficiently will save you time and stress. Check the site for any hazards like uneven ground or low-hanging branches. Use levelling blocks to ensure your caravan is level and stable. Connect to available water, electricity, and waste disposal facilities.
Maintaining your caravan during your stay will keep everything running smoothly. Empty waste tanks regularly and use designated disposal areas and check and refill water tanks as needed.
If you are free camping, keep a regular check on battery, gas and water levels to avoid mishaps and disappointment.
When you are ready to leave the campsite make sure you disconnect and store any pipes and cords.
Make sure all goods inside the van are securely stored, that all windows are closed and that any aerials have been lowered and secured. Once you arrive home, it is time to make sure your van will be ready for your next big adventure. Clean the interior thoroughly, including all surfaces, floors, and appliances and wash the exterior to remove dirt, bugs, and grime. Check for any damage or wear and tear that needs repairing. Drain water systems to prevent freezing and mould growth, unplug and store electrical cords and batteries and secure all doors and windows.
Cowra Neighbourhood Watch would like to invite community members to a public information session to be held at Cowra Bowling Club on the 21st of October beginning at 4.30pm. A variety of topics will be covered. Lex and Brenda from The Right Weigh will be talking about the importance of ensuring that your caravan or motor home is not overweight, and that weights are correctly balanced. This issue is a major contributor to accidents involving caravans. The Right Weigh will also be available to weigh your caravan or motorhome on Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd October. They will be situated on the Mid Western Highway on the flat area at the rest stop. They are also available to come to you to weigh.
Bookings can be made by phoning 0455239369 or through Facebook Messenger.
Members of the State Emergency Service will discuss how to prepare for storms and behaviour around flooding and Fire and Rescue NSW will present information on how to prepare for the upcoming fire season.
The information session will be followed by the Cowra Neighbourhood watch Annual General meeting. If you wish to attend the information session, please book by phoning 0421 779 354, or contact us through Facebook Messenger.
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