Fire station officer Paul Catterall said brigades from Ravenswood and Launceston responded to reports that a caravan was alight in Lambert Street at 4.30am.

“The caravan was fully engulfed on brigade arrival,” Mr Catterall said.

“Some quick action from the brigade protected the house and other exposures in the area.

“The attending officer was aware of the presence of two gas cylinders on the front of the van, and disconnected them properly to ensure there was no risk.”

The caravan was unoccupied at the time of the blaze, as was the owners’ house. Neighbours said they were alerted to the fire after hearing a loud bang.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated.