Many RVing accidents occur because of simple neglect or carelessness. Forgetting to check one area of your RV could end up in a disaster, costing you thousands in repairs. To make all of your camping trips carefree and easy, make sure to do a safe check before leaving the driveway or camping site to return home.  Here are 3 distinct areas that need to be checked before hitting the road.  Regardless of it you are towing your coach or manning the wheel of one.  Safety should always come first.

Open Range H397 RGR Toy Hauler from Lerch RV

RV/Trailer Check:

1. Disconnect all power, TV, phone, water and sewer lines. Make sure all lines are rolled up and securely in their storage areas.
2. Visually inspect the inside of the unit. Make sure all furniture is secure using straps, do not forget to secure those TVs. Put away anything that might roll around and damage the interior.
3. Retract jacks, steps and awnings. If you have a slide-out, make sure it has slid back into the trailer and is secure.
4. Make sure all storage and main doors are closed and latched or locked.
5. Look under the coach for signs of any fluid leaks.
6. Make sure smoke and propane leak detectors are working
7. Double-check tow bar and safety cables
8. Check your brake lights, tail lights and turn signals are working properly.
9. Check to make sure your air brakes, parking brake and tow brakes are engaging properly.

Propane Check & Tips:

1. Never paint your LP tanks a dark color. It will absorb the sun’s rays and can cause it to over heat.
2. Don’t travel with the stove, oven or heater burners lit.
3. Never refuel while any propane appliances or your engine is running.
4. If you have an older propane tank, make sure it has an overfill protection device. Most places will not refill LP bottles that do not have this important safety device.
5. Have tanks regularly checked by a certified dealer.

Engine Check:

(on your tow vehicle or if you are driving a motor home)

1. Check oil, transmission and coolant levels
2. Inspect tire inflation pressure and tread wear on your truck and trailer.
3. Check all your brakes to make sure they are engaging properly and the lights are working.
4. When driving, know your surroundings (weather, overhangs and ground hazards)

Camping Season is here!

An Extra Safety Tip:
Practice S.A.F.E. Cornering – When pulling a trailer, fifth wheel or driving a motor home, you have to compensate for the extra weight, height and length of the vehicle when taking corners. Use S.A.F.E. when turning corners with your RV.

• Slowly approach the turn.
• Arc the turn, taking a wider turn. Watch your surroundings and the cars around you.
• Finish the turn completely. Don’t straighten the wheel until the back-end has cleared the pivot point.
• Experience is key. The more you drive your RV or tow your trailer/fifth wheel, the more practice you will have – improving your RV towing skills. And in the long run, making your RVing experiences more enjoyable and memorable.

With camping season finally beginning here in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  The above check list should be useful.  If you have any questions or concerns about the safety of your unit, please feel free to contact our service department.

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