RV Trax Panama City

Tag: RV Safety

  • Wheel Chocks and Leveling

    When backing up or pulling into a campsite with your travel trailer or fifth wheel, stop at the approximate spot where you plan on parking the unit. Check the leveling from side to side. If it is not level, pull forward or back about an foot. Put leveling blocks at the tires on the low side of the unit and pull onto the blocks. Verify the unit is level side to side and chock the wheels front and rear. Disconnect the unit and adjust the front jacks so the unit is level front to rear. Added stability can be encountered by leaving the front of the unit slightly low and extending the rear stabilizers, then adjust the front jacks back to level. This applies a little more load on the stabilizers to reduce rocking of the unit. It is important that the rig is level to avoid damaging the refrigerator cooling unit and for drains to work properly. Travel-trailer owners need to know to block the back and front of the tires on both sides of the vehicle, while parked at their campsite. Weight distribution through-out the camper will shift while you are enjoying the amenities of your home on the road. If the weight happens to be concentrated in the rear of the camper, well the front may pop up and you might find yourself taking an unplanned tour of the campground.

     

     

  • Safe Operation Of Your RV

    SAFE OPERATION OF YOUR RV

    FIRE PREVENTION
    Always properly maintain the RV, including often-overlooked engine maintenance.
    Never keep flammable materials around the stove, generator, or any other electrical components.
    Always keep the appliances, including the generator, clean and operating properly.
    Always turn the LP gas system off and beware of static electricity when refueling.
    Always have at least one good fire extinguisher in an easily known accessible location.
    It is better to have a few fire extinguishers at several accessible locations.

    If you ever find yourself in a fire situation, the first thing to do is escape the RV to save
    lives. ONLY FIGHT THE FIRE IF YOU CAN DO SO SAFELY!

    ESCAPE WINDOWS, HATCHES AND DOORS
    Never screw or seal an escape hatch, window or door shut. Know the locations and operations of these escape routes in case of an emergency. Fires consume RV’s quickly. If a fire is present, GET OUT IMMEDIATELY. Do not attempt to extinguish a fire until all life has exited the RV and the fire can be extinguished safely.

    SMOKE DETECTORS
    At least weekly, verify that the smoke detector is operating properly. Replace the battery at least once a year. A recommended addition or replacement of the existing detector is a Photoelectric Smoke Detector. It only requires a simple installation and it is more receptive to smoke from fires and less susceptible to false alarms.

    CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS
    You should have at least one detector in your bedroom mounted either to the ceiling or wall at least 8” from the ceiling or 4” up from the floor. A higher mounting location is best because Carbon Monoxide rises since it is lighter than air. Do not install close to an inside corner. Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless, invisible, poisonous deadly gas that can kill without warning. When an engine or generator is running, even from
    another vehicle parked next to you, it is producing this deadly gas that can enter your RV. Carbon monoxide detectors have a lifespan of 5 to 8 years.

    PROPANE DETECTORS
    LP or Propane gas is heavier than air, therefore the detector must be mounted close to the floor. These detectors often have a dual function. A slow beep is generally an indication of a low battery condition and a continuous beep is from propane detection. Chemicals such as cleaners, colognes, alcohol, hairsprays or sewer gasses can cause the detector to activate a false alarm. NEVER DISCONNECT AN LP DETECTOR. Test the detector at least monthly. Many propane detectors are connected to an LP valve that will turn off the LP gas when the alarm is activated.

    BATTERY SAFETY
    Batteries emit hydrogen gas that is explosive, therefore batteries must be properly vented to the outside atmosphere. Check the battery electrolyte fluid monthly and fill with distilled water only. Keep the caps tight and the battery clean. If the battery appears swollen or damaged, replace it immediately. For more information see the article BATTERY MAINTENANCE.

    GENERATOR SAFETY
    Keep the generator’s fluid levels full, clean and properly maintained. NEVER use the generator compartment for storage. Inspect the fuel lines and exhaust for cracks or leaks. The exhaust tail pipe should protrude at least 1 inch past the exterior wall edge of the RV. When operating the generator, try to park your RV with the exhaust facing down wind, to carry the fumes away from the unit.

    TIRE SAFETY
    Check the tire pressures, including the spare tire before any trip. Inspect the tires for any visual defects present and replace every 5 to 7 years. Tires should be rated for the load of your vehicle. See the article TIRE FAILURE for more information.

    EXTERIOR INSPECTION
    Before leaving with the RV, check that all fluids, exterior lights, wipers and horn are operating properly. Also, check for fluid or exhaust leaks, ensure that the antenna, awning, slide out and leveling systems are retracted and locked. Make sure that all hoses, cords and cargo are stored properly.

    TOWING
    When towing an RV, trailer or a tow vehicle, test the operation of the turn signals, parking lights and brake lights. Manually engage the brake controller while rolling, to verify that the brakes are operating properly. Follow the manufacturers instructions for the towed vehicle.

    These are just a few of the many issues of concern. I hope that this article will help you become better prepared, have a safe trip and avoid many potential problems. Remember, common sense goes a long ways towards safety. For additional information you can call a qualified professional at (850) 866-6999 or visit https://www.rvsafety.org

  • Important RV Tips

    IMPORTANT RV TIPS

    Most recreational vehicles are equipped with a Dometic or Norcold heat absorption refrigerator. Contact the manufacturer to find out if your RV refrigerator has a safety recall. The refrigerator model number, product serial number and the cooling unit serial number will need to be supplied to obtain recall information

       

      If you ever smell ammonia emanating from the refrigerator, or notice a green yellow residue around the outside cooling unit , shut off the refrigerator immediately to avoid a fire hazard. These symptoms indicate a defective cooling unit that must be replaced.

     

    RV Refrigerators most be operated level for proper operation. Operating a refrigerator that is not level causes cumulative restriction damage to the cooling unit, usually warranting expensive replacement. A repair can sometimes be accomplished by removing the refrigerator and performing a burping procedure. This is accomplished by laying in on its sides and upside down for a period of time.. This may be a temporary repair.

    Atwood and Suburban are both major manufacturers of water heaters and have posted bulletins warning against after market parts and heating elements. Atwood direct spark ignition Water Heaters now have an adjustable thermostat available.

    Do not operate RV generators while parked in confined spaces. The exhaust emits deadly carbon monoxide gas that must be well ventilated to disperse. All RV’s equipped with a generator should be equipped with a Carbon Monoxide Detector for safety. A Gen-Turi exhaust system is available for Motor Homes, that directs deadly exhaust gas above the roof line. Altitude and heat adversely affect the efficiency of generators, so most carburetors have altitude adjustments on the carburetor bowl.

    When storing an RV, as a safety precaution, turn off the LP gas and disconnect the batteries. This will help eliminate dead batteries. Battery life can be greatly extended by keeping them charged wit a small trickle charger or a solar charger. Follow safety precautions when servicing batteries. Use only distilled water when filling and keep the top of the batteries and the battery tray clean. This can be accomplished by using a mixture of water and baking soda . This will neutralize the corrosion. Keep the terminals  and the top of the battery clean.

    When your RV is to be put back into use after storage, always inspect the refrigerator, furnace and water heater vents for rodent nests before switching the appliance on. Inspect the water heater flame for a nice blue color. A yellow flame indicates a possible spider nest or restriction in the burner tube. This can be a fire hazard, so do not operate. Before switching a water heater on, always connect a water supply and fill the tank by opening a hot water faucet till all air has escaped.

    When an RV is parked for any length of time, it is recommended that you partially unload the suspension by extending the leveling jacks. This will greatly extend the life of the springs and suspension.

    Before each use of the RV, check tire pressures, fluid levels, horn, wipers, brake, turn signal,clearance lights and headlamps. Test the braking system of towed vehicles.

    Always verify towed vehicles are in park, brake applied, or the wheels chocked before disconnecting from a tow bar or hitch to avoid sudden movement..

    RV roofs should be inspected for gaps, cracks, voids breaks, looseness, or any signs of physical deterioration at least twice a year. Treating with a rubber roof cleaner and a conditioner is recommended. Never use any products containing citrus chemicals or petroleum distillates on a EDPM Rubber Roof. Do not use silicone sealant and use only the recommended sealant and cleaner solvents, when repair is necessary. A breathable RV Cover will protect your RV and roof from climate & weathering damage. Covering the RV with a tarp or plastic can trap moisture and condensation inside the RV, which in turn, can result in possible formation of molds and mildews.

    The RV LP propane system should be checked annually for leaks and proper operations. Any rotten egg smell indicates a LP leak. Shut off the LP valve immediately. Listen for a initial PSST hiss sound when turning the LP valve on, then the sound will stop. Any flow sound indicates a leak and the LP system must be shut off immediately. Low propane levels and low ambient temperatures can cause the propane appliances work less efficiently. If you intend to use the appliances in cold weather, keep the propane tanks as full as possible.

    A beeping LP Detector may be an indicator of a low battery. A continuous alarm indicates a LP gas leak, or can be caused by some cleaners and sewer gasses.

    Turn off the water heater and drain monthly to avoid damage to the hot water tank. And electric heating elements.

    Inspect area around a RV slide out for clearances before operating. Inspect the slide out seals f or any damage.

    Using too small or long an extension cord can pose a safety hazard, as well as damaging the RV appliances from too low an operating voltage. Always inspect the plug and receptacle for damage. It is recommended to use a volt meter or voltage monitor to safely operate the RV. Voltages should be between 108 volts and 132 volts AC. A Surge Protector is recommended to avoid damaging your RV appliances and accessories from electrical surges, high voltage and improper wiring connections.

    Test the GFI (ground fault Interrupter) outlets and circuits monthly.

    A tripped circuit breaker is reset by pressing the circuit breaker switch firmly to the off position and turning it back on.

    Always verify the antenna is lowered, the step is retracted, storage items and portable appliances secured before moving the RV.

    Keep Air Conditioner return air filters clean. Inspect the coils for contamination. Listen for unusual noises or vibrations. Use a coil cleaner or have them professionally cleaned for proper performance.

    Never leave the black water valve open when connected to full hook up Campgrounds. The black waste water tank must be kept wet at all times. Allow the tank to fill first, then open the drain valve to drain. Close the valve and add about 1 gallon of water and a tank deodorizer to aid in digestion and keep the valves moist. Use RV friendly toilet paper to avoid costly holding tank damage.

    Buildup of solids in a holding tank can be broken down by adding distilled vinegar. A bag of ice poured down the toilet, just before driving, will aid in breaking down solids by the cubes sloshing around while driving.

    Never use the trailer jacks, landing gear or leveling systems to change a tire. Always use jack stands or supports to secure a jacked vehicle

    .Always unplug the RV and disconnect batteries before any welding on a RV.

    We hope this information will help you avoid future failures and make your trip more enjoyable. Additional information is available at https://rvsafety.com or you can contact us at (850)866-6999 or visit https://rvtrax.com

     

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