Recreational Vehicle Safety Tips
Avoid any delays and unexpected problems when you take your recreational vehicle out for what should be a relaxing trip. Follow some of our suggestions below, and consider investing in some maintenance and safety classes to help ensure happy travels.
Take Care of Your Tires
- When you’re not traveling, keep tires covered to protect them from the sun and weather.
- Make sure you check your tire pressure before setting out on the road, especially when they’re cold.
- Consult the owner’s manual for proper inflation, and never exceed the maximum pressure indicated on the tire’s sidewalls.
Weigh Your RV and Tow Vehicle
To know if weight is properly distributed and that you are within legal weight, be sure to find a certified platform scale and get weighed. Have the vehicle fully loaded with passengers, cargo, fuel, personal belongings, full fresh water and propane tanks to get an accurate weight.
Understand Propane and Gas Systems
Have the propane and gas systems inspected every spring for leaks and proper appliance operating pressure. Be sure you know how your RV alerts you to leaks, and know what to do if one occurs. Here’s some easy things to do if you smell gas/propane:
1. Extinguish any open flames and pilot lights.
2. Do not touch electrical switches.
3. Shut off gas supply at the tank valve(s) or gas supply connection.
4. Open the doors and windows and leave until the smell clears.
5. Have the gas system checked and repaired by a qualified technician before using again.
Use the Onboard Generator Sparingly
The onboard generator gives you extra power when there’s no shore power available, but be wary of carbon monoxide.
- Never sleep with the generator running, and before you start the generator inspect the exhaust system.
- Test the carbon monoxide detector, and know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning so you can watch out for it.
