Hurricane Preparedness – RV Addition

Preparing Your RV for a Hurricane

As the official Insurance Agency of General RV, America’s Choice Insurance Partners is dedicated to helping RV owners prepare for hurricanes and extreme weather conditions. Here are some important tips to get your RV ready for a hurricane:

• Ensure Power with a Portable Generator: Be prepared for regional power outages by having a portable generator to provide comfort and essential amenities in your RV.
• Install an Automatic LP Shutoff: Add an emergency shutoff device to your propane systems for added safety during storms.
• Secure Your Propane Containers: Cover your LP containers to minimize the risk of damage from flying debris during storms.
• Protect Your RV with a Cover: Safeguard your RV from hail and flying objects by using a durable RV cover.
• Stabilize Your RV with Wheel Chocks: Prevent your towable RV from moving during high winds by using wheel chocks.
• Seal RV Seams with Self-Leveling Lap Sealant: Protect your RV from leaks by checking all seams and applying sealant where necessary.
• Prepare Water Reserves: Keep water reserves on hand in case city or well water becomes undrinkable during extended periods.

Prepare the inside of your RV if sheltering in place

• Use waterproof bags or totes to secure important documents and valuables
• To avoid water entering the RV make sure all windows and doors are closed
• Create an emergency kit and make an inventory of everything in your RV

When evacuating your home with your RV:

• Secure items inside and outside the RV and follow evacuation orders
• Ensure you have a full tank of gas
• Leave as early as possible to avoid traffic back ups and potential gas shortages
• Always comply with authorities’ evacuation orders and avoid driving through water
• Have your evacuation route in place and avoid the expected path of the hurricane as soon as possible
• If relocating to a campground make your reservations as soon as possible, as sites may fill up quickly during evacuations
• Consider packing and stocking your RV with necessities for several days if you are unable to return home immediately after the storm has passed.

Leaving your RV behind during an evacuation

• Find a safe spot to park your RV and know how to protect it in the event of high winds or a hurricane. If possible:
• Park your RV in an enclosed storage facility or next to a building, away from the direction of the wind. If parked at a campsite or in the open, choose an elevated site away from large trees and position the end of the RV with the fewest windows into the wind.
• Secure loose branches or items nearby to prevent them from blowing into your RV, and fill all tanks with fresh water to add weight and stability to the RV.
• Turn off propane cylinders, cover the regulator, and secure inside items in boxes or cupboards.
• Know the location of the transfer switch for the generator to help prevent electrical shocks.
• Maintain the entire RV, including the roof, according to manufacturer guidelines to help prevent leaks during hurricanes or inclement weather.
• Anchor your RV using anchor kits, ground anchors, or sandbags to secure it during high winds or a hurricane.
• Remove or retract all awnings and secure outside items

By following these preparation tips, RV owners can be better equipped to face the challenges of hurricanes and extreme weather.