The ‘Caravan & Camping Safety campaign’ calls for Aussies planning to go caravanning or camping during the summer to take personal responsibility for their safety and that of others.
This November, the Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA) officially launches its summer safety campaign to remind Australians to focus on safety throughout the month before hitting the road.
Since Australia has more than 840,000 registered RVs and holiday camping has increased in popularity, the CIAA expects a record number of Australians to plan their summer holiday trips. According to their press release
In the following months, around 14 million nights and four million camping trips or more are predicted to be made throughout the country.
“Caravan and camping is a great activity enjoyed by many millions of Australians and in particular over the summer break. Importantly we want to see all those who go caravan and camping over the upcoming holidays not only have a great time while at their destination but also return home safely,” said CIAA Chief Executive Officer Stuart Lamont.
In the next month, CIAA will also start sharing road safety information about pre-plan trips to manage fatigue, appropriate rest stop usage including truck rest areas, sharing the road with trucks, vehicle preparation, towing, caravan parks, shared spaces, and safety in the pool.
This information to be shared is relevant for all users of the road regardless of driving experience.
The CIAA also shared research results in their press release. It indicated that RV road users are more likely to have a crash on Monday or Sunday when returning from their holiday trips. It also found that crashes are most likely to happen between 10 AM to 12 NN.
The research showed that road crashes are more likely to happen in urban areas. However, fatalities from it are more likely to occur on regional roads. The rear ends are the most common reason for a crash with 18%, followed by angle collisions such as turning with 14% and losing control with 13%.
More so, over 330 Australians perished due to drowning incidents last year, with double the estimated to have suffered severe non-fatal drowning incidents.
“Getting to your destination safely is only one part of the safety discussion. Caravan Parks across the country provide a safe, family-friendly, and exceptional holiday experience. However, with the number of campers choosing to spend their holidays in parks, we’re reminding holidaymakers to remember the importance of pool safety and shared spaces within caravan holiday parks,” Stuart said.
The CIAA has also formed partnerships with other state caravan associations, professional service providers, relevant entities like the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and the Queensland Trucking Association, and free-to-access consumer digital and print educational assets.
Information about these assets will be available through easy-to-digest videos, engaging online quizzes, and written content in emails, social media, and digital platforms. Every year thousands of handbooks are given out for free.
Throughout the month, people will be directed to materials hosted on websites such as the National Recreational Vehicle Towing Guide and the Co-Exist, Road sharing with heavy vehicles.
Can’t contain my excitement about the CIAA’s safety campaign! They’re teaming up with travel influencers to spread safety messages far and wide. Plus, interactive workshops and virtual sessions to prep us for emergencies. Such a well-rounded approach to holiday safety!
I’m glad you’re enthusiastic about the safety campaign! It’s great to see a variety of safety measures being promoted. Your support is essential in spreading awareness. Imagine a safer holiday season for all!