Safety warnings issued following Ringwood campsite death

Campers have been alerted to the dangers of carbon monoxide following the tragic death of a man at the Red Shoot Camping Park, Ringwood in the New Forest.

As the school holiday season commences many families will be heading to the New Forest and surrounding areas bringing their tents and caravans for their annual camping break.

It is understood that the 50 year old deceased and his wife used a gas-fired barbecue to warm up the inside of their tent unaware of the silent and noxious poison being put into the air.

The victim's wife survived the incident but was reported to be seriously ill.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has issued an alert:

•    Never use stoves or disposable barbecues for cooking or warmth in an enclosed space with poor ventilation

•    Gas-powered appliances in caravans should be regularly serviced and checked

•    Consider using an audible carbon monoxide alarm in tents or caravans

•    Keep barbecues outside tents (even when cooling down or turned off)

Camping and caravanning holidays remain an extremely popular choice, particularly when household budgets are being tightened. 

Over the coming months we will see an influx of visitors as Ringwood and the New Forest remains one of the most sought after destinations with lots to offer in all weathers.

For more advice on keeping safe and well on your camping trip visit www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Healthyholidays/Pages/Campingsafety.aspx

You can also visit www.rospa.com

Do you think these new guidelines are tough enough?

Have you got any camping horror stories?