Prep Your RV for a Hurricane

Florida is no stranger to severe weather, including hurricanes. The Atlantic Ocean hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 every year, and during this time, the chance for hurricane formation in the Atlantic Basin is increased. With just the right conditions, a storm packing winds of at least 74 miles per hour or more can form and can affect the states along the Eastern seaboard and inland. If you are in a hurricane’s path and have an RV, there are certain preparations you should make to ensure that your rig is secured, but above all, that you and your family are safe. The first question you should ask yourself when prepping for a hurricane is “How will I use my RV?” First of all, know that you should never try to weather the storm in your rig. These vehicles are not manufactured to withstand high wind speeds and are not safe to live in or drive during a major weather event such as a hurricane. If you don’t plan to evacuate in your RV, try to find a safe location that’s outside a flood zone in which you can store your rig. Then get yourself and loved ones to another location to shelter in place.

If you plan to evacuate in your RV, follow these helpful tips to ensure you’re fully prepared for a safe escape:

• Make sure that you have plenty of water to drink and non-perishable food to eat. Take prescription medications and other personal items with you as well. You should also fill containers and the bathtub with water, if you can, and use it for flushing the toilet and brushing your teeth.
• Bring important documents, such as identification cards and licenses, passports, deeds, insurance policies, birth certificates, and others. Be sure to place them in a waterproof bag or container to help keep them protected.
• Fill your tank with gas and check all fluids in your rig. Inspect the treads and air pressure in your tires and replace any that need to be replaced. Check all systems in your RV, such as electrical and propane, and perform any maintenance or repairs that are needed.
• Keep batteries, flashlights, a battery-operated radio, garbage bags, tarps, tools, and other such items on hand.

And if you’re taking pets along with you, make sure that they have bedding, food, medications, and toys so that they can remain comfortable during travel. Ultimately, the safety of you and your loved ones is of the utmost importance, so be smart about traveling in your RV during a hurricane and pay attention to the weather condition at all times. Want to learn more? Contact us today!