RV Fire Safety and Prevention

by California Casualty | Helpful Tips, Safety, Travel | 0 comments

You’re ready to hit the road in your RV. Whether you’re an experienced RVer or a newcomer to the lifestyle, protecting your vehicle from fire hazards can mean the difference between a dream vacation and a disaster.

As your home on wheels, your RV presents greater fire dangers than a standard vehicle. With features like kitchens and curtains, there are more opportunities for things to go up in flames. There also are electrical and mechanical components that can present a fire risk if not properly maintained. Here’s what you need to know to keep your family safe.

Electrical Systems

RVs use both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) power. AC operates your appliances and outlets while DC powers your engine and battery. Solar panels also are gaining popularity and can be configured to provide either AC or DC power.

• Bumps and vibrations can loosen connections. Check your electrical systems regularly to make sure connections are secure.
• Check for frayed wires and damaged outlets. Never use wires or outlets that are compromised. Replace as needed.
• If the circuit breaker shuts off power to a certain circuit, it’s probably overloaded. Other signs include lights that flicker or buzzing noises from outlets and switches. Consult a professional to ensure that you don’t have an overloaded circuit.
• While power strips are generally safe for small wattage appliances (charging cell phones or table lamps), they may not do well with high wattage. They also cannot handle continuous loads required by space heaters. Power strips can overheat and ignite combustible material in the walls.
• Don’t cover electric cords with rugs or carpets.
• Only use extension cords rated for outdoor use. If left out overnight, cords can get wet.
• If you have an electrically charged fire, don’t use water to extinguish it. Use a fire extinguisher approved for type C fires.

Propane Appliances

Propane commonly powers stoves, refrigerators and water heaters in your RV. It’s an efficient fuel that also can be dangerous if mishandled. Propane leaks can cause fires and explosions.

• Regularly inspect your propane tanks and lines for leaks or any issues. Do not use tanks and lines that have been damaged.
• Always store propane tanks in an upright position in a well-ventilated area away from a heat source.
• Turn off propane-powered appliances when not in use.
• Make sure propane-powered appliances are off when you are in motion. Gasoline vapor and an open flame are not a good combination. Also, many propane appliances need to be level and roads are not.
• Get your RV LP-certified. A licensed liquid propane technician can inspect and test your propane system.
• Consider switching to an induction cooktop and electric fridge to reduce the use of propane.

Cooking Accidents

The small space and low ceilings in most RVs make it more dangerous to cook there than at home. Most RVs use propane stove tops, which can be an added risk.

• Properly vent fuel-burning appliances. Never operate them in an enclosed space such as a bathroom, bedroom or storage area. Turn on the exhaust fan, open a window, or cook outside.
• Keep flammable materials away from the cooking area.
• Never leave cooking appliances unattended while preparing meals.
• Turn off appliances before leaving the RV.
• Check and maintain your appliances regularly. Keep them clean; make sure there are no loose or chewed wires.
• Do not use cooking appliances to heat your RV. That could create a dangerous situation where there’s insufficient oxygen in a small space.

Pro Tip: For curtains, choose natural fabrics (cotton, hemp) which are less flammable than polyester.

Engine & Mechanical

Your RV is not just a home; it’s also a vehicle. That means it’s equally important to keep the engine and mechanical systems well maintained.

• Check brakes and bearings. Improperly adjusted trailer brakes can overheat. Wheel bearings also can overheat if not properly greased.
• Make sure there are no leaks. Place a piece of cardboard under the RVs engine for a few nights to see if you have a leak. Repair any engine or transmission leak as soon as possible. Transmission fluid is highly flammable.
• Check the battery. Most RVs use lead acid batteries which must be ventilated, or they can give off dangerous gasses. Make sure the battery is open to the outside by vent or hose.
• Trailer chains that are too long can drag on the road and create sparks. Adjust them as needed. Just one spark can cause a fire.
• Improperly inflated tires can overheat and cause a fire. It also can cause the tire to fail.
• Exhaust systems can become very hot. If they have contact with flammable dry grass, it could ignite.

Safety Gear

Outfit your RV with the right safety gear so you’re alerted to any potential emergency, and you can act quickly.

• Place smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in every sleeping area.
• Check the alarms and detectors, and switch batteries every spring and fall.
• Fire extinguishers should be in easy to reach areas, for example near the door. Get one that is rated type A (for wood, plastics, cloth) and type B (for liquid fuel like grease, oil, stove and motor fuel) and type C (for electric fires).
• Test your emergency exits including windows that can be used as an escape route. Make sure you have at least two ways out and nothing is blocking those paths.

If you smell gas:

• Extinguish all open flames pilot lights, lamps.
• Shut off the gas supply.
• Do not turn on an electrical switch as that can create a spark that causes an explosion.
• Remember to evacuate first. Call the fire department, and then try to put out the fire.

If you’re renting an RV:

Remember to do your due diligence to make sure your RV is safe.

• Choose a newer model. Older models of RVs have fewer and less advanced safety measures. Older engines and equipment also are more likely to fail.
• Ask the last time it was inspected.
• Look at the fire extinguisher expiration date.
• Look at the indication lights on the propane system and carbon monoxide system to see that they’re working properly.
• Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
• If you suspect an issue, address it before you sign the paperwork.

Finally, if you’re driving your own RV, make sure it is fully protected by insurance for your own peace of mind. Safe travels!

This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.