Hurricane safety considerations for RVs
Recreational vehicles are particularly vulnerable to hurricane-force winds and rain. You shouldn't drive RVs or use them as a shelter during severe weather. However, they can provide numerous benefits to you and your family as you look to vacate an area after the storm has passed. In addition, your RV can serve as cost-effective, temporary living quarters after the storm should your primary residence be damaged or destroyed.
How to protect your RV in a hurricane
RV owners can take several steps to protect their investment before severe weather strikes. All drivers in hurricane-prone areas should prepare an evacuation route before a storm threatens your area. If the authorities issue evacuation orders, you should do so without delay.
If you plan to evacuate in your RV or use it as a temporary residence after a hurricane:
Prepare an emergency kit
Stock your motor home or travel trailer with items such as water, non-perishable foods, and first aid supplies. Before the storm, fill your vehicle with fuel and check the windshield wipers and tires. Pack sleeping bags and bedding in plastic bags to protect them from moisture. Have your car insurance, home insurance, and RV insurance documents, vehicle registration, title, and other vital documents somewhere you can easily access and take with you.
Avoid driving through water
Moving water can sweep away your vehicle, and roads covered by standing water are prone to collapse. Attempting to drive through water also may stall your engine, with the potential to cause irreparable damage if you try to restart it.
Perform a thorough safety check
If you use gas-powered lanterns or cookstoves, have battery-operated fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to protect you and your family. If you use a generator to power your RV, you'll need a transfer switch to isolate the electricity from the power grid to prevent electrical shocks.
If you're evacuating and leaving your motor home or travel trailer behind:
Decide where you'll store your RV or travel trailer if there's a hurricane. Be sure it's not left in a low-lying area prone to flooding. Rising water can seep in and cause damage to upholstery, carpeting, and electrical systems.
Secure all loose items on your property. Remove nearby tree branches that may become airborne during high winds and cause damage to your motor home or travel trailer.
For motor homes, empty the holding tanks, turn off the propane cylinders and cover the regulator, vents, and the air conditioning unit. Tie-down travel trailers and ensure that the lot the trailer occupies is secure.
Hurricane season comes every year. These tips help can you protect your RV before the severe weather strikes and keep you and your family safe.
Sources: NOAA, National Hurricane Center, RVIA, American Red Cross
