Gas cylinder in a motorhome during a heatwave: dangerous or not?

In hot weather, interior temperatures in a motorhome or caravan can exceed 30°C, making it unbearable. Opening windows during midday is counterproductive as it draws hot air inside. Ventilation is effective only in the evening or early morning when outside air is cooler. Key measures: install reflective mats on the outside of windows, use roof fans to actively expel hot air, park with the refrigerator ventilation side in the shade, deploy an awning to shade walls and windows. For personal comfort, cooling gel mats can be used. Air conditioning (roof-mounted or portable) is effective but adds 20–30 kg, requires a 230 V hookup, and generates noise.

A major camper fire broke out at campsite De Lievelinge in Vuren on Sunday morning. Gas cylinder explosions forced a 500-metre safety zone; no injuries were reported.

Several camper fires occurred in the Netherlands over the past week: in Rijen/Dongen, Ede, Zwartewaal, Almelo and Amersfoort. Drivers were unharmed, causes are under investigation.