As an RV owner, you know that hitting the road means embracing the great outdoors—sometimes, that includes dealing with unpredictable weather. One of the most challenging situations you might face is navigating through high winds or storms. These conditions can put your RV at risk if you’re not properly prepared. The good news? With a few simple steps, you can ensure your RV remains stable and secure, even when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Why Stabilizing Your RV is Crucial
RVs are built to handle a lot of things, but strong winds are a different beast. When your RV is supported by leveling jacks, it’s designed primarily to withstand vertical weight. However, these jacks lack the horizontal strength needed to keep your RV stable in high winds. If the wind hits your RV from the side or even the front or rear, the leveling jacks can easily fold or buckle under the pressure. The safest course of action? Get your RV’s wheels on the ground and remove the reliance on leveling jacks during stormy conditions.
Storm and High Wind Preparation Checklist for RV Owners
To help you stay safe, here’s a practical checklist to follow when preparing your RV for storms or high winds:
Before the Storm:
- Lower All Leveling Jacks:
Make sure all leveling jacks are fully lowered to remove any support from the RV.
Verify that the RV’s weight is fully on the wheels, not the leveling jacks. - Secure the Wheels:
Use wheel chocks to prevent any movement.
Ensure that the parking brake is engaged if applicable. - Check Tire Pressure:
Verify that all tires are inflated to the recommended PSI for maximum stability. - Secure Loose Items:
Remove or secure any loose items around the RV that could become projectiles in high winds.
Retract awnings, slide-outs, and antennas. - Close Windows and Vents:
Ensure all windows, vents, and doors are securely closed and locked to prevent wind from entering and causing internal damage. - Turn Off Utilities:
Turn off propane, water, and other utilities as necessary to reduce the risk of damage or leaks. - Review Emergency Plan:
Review your emergency exit routes and make sure all occupants know the plan.
Keep emergency supplies accessible (first aid kit, flashlight, etc.). - Monitor Weather Updates:
Stay updated on the weather conditions and be prepared to move to a safer location if necessary.
After the Storm:
- Inspect the RV:
Check the exterior and interior of the RV for any damage or water intrusion.
Inspect the leveling jacks and wheels to ensure they are in good condition. - Re-Engage Leveling Jacks:
Once safe, re-engage the leveling jacks to level your RV as needed. - Check Utilities and Connections:
Reconnect utilities and check for leaks or damage.
Key Takeaway: Safety First
The most important thing to remember during a storm is that your safety and the safety of your RV are the top priorities. By ensuring that your RV’s wheels are on the ground and that all potential hazards are secured, you’re taking significant steps to minimize risk and protect your home on wheels.
Personal Experience: Learning From the Pros
Recently, we had the opportunity to attend a Lippert Technical course, where we gained invaluable hands-on experience under the guidance of technical specialists. One of the most critical lessons I learned was the importance of getting those wheels on the ground during a storm. Seeing how the base units are built and understanding the limitations of leveling jacks really drove home the point: Jacks up, wheels down, and stay safe.
Stay Connected and Share Your Experiences
Have you ever faced high winds in your RV? What steps did you take to stabilize it? Share your tips and stories with us! By exchanging knowledge, we can all enjoy the road with greater confidence and security.
So, next time you see those dark clouds rolling in, remember: Get OFF the leveling jacks and get your wheels on the ground. Safe travels, and see you down the road!