RV safety starts before the trip

  • Published
  • By Michael Seekamp
  • 82nd Training Wing Safety Office
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Preparing to travel safely is important for everyone who takes to the road in a motor home or travel trailer.

When taking a vacation or even a weekend trip, it's important to make sure the recreational vehicle is well maintained and ready to make the trip.

Before the trip
There are several steps to take to make sure the vehicle is ready. The following list gives examples of what to look for and what to do to fully inspect the RV, such as:
  • Install a deadbolt door lock on the RV.
  • Inspect all belts and hoses for cracking, especially the radiator hoses, and replace them as needed.
  • Check the headlights, all tires for air pressure and tread wear, and the operation of the turn signals.
  • Check the hitch and towing equipment for proper condition, cracked welds and loose bolts.
  • Ensure the RV is equipped with a serviceable fire extinguisher and smoke alarm.
  • Clean the cooking vent hoods to avoid grease fires.
  • Leave a copy of the trip itinerary with friends or relatives in case of emergency.

Items to bring
While on the trip it is a good idea to keep certain items handy such as:
  •  Flashlight
  •  Jumper cables
  •  Fix-a-flat
  •  Road flares
  •  Duct tape for quick or temporary fixes
  •  Pliers
  •  Screwdrivers
  •  Adjustable wrench
Bad weather precautions
During bad weather, remember to avoid trees or power lines that could fall on the vehicle. The safest place during lightning is inside the RV. If in the path of a tornado, the safest place to be is a tornado shelter; do not stay inside the RV. Avoid parking in low areas that are prone to flooding.

Along the trip, it is important to practice good safety habits after hitting the road. This can help make an RV holiday as worry free as possible. Be sure to observe the common principles of safety such as obeying the speed limit. Know the rig height or this may cause a collision if entering an overpass that is too short for the RV. Also, be sure to buckle seat belts each time before getting behind the wheel.

As a final suggestion, take time before the trip to get plenty of rest prior to each part of the trip. When planning the route, make a schedule for rest stops every two or three hours to stay fresh and alert.