If you are about to take a trip, follow these safety tips for used RVs. They are important if you are a newcomer to used RVs or an old pro. These safety measures for used RVs will give you comfort when on the road.

Safety measures with used RVs, before you hit the road

1.         First, check the used RVs belts and hoses. Do this before getting on the road. If any need to be replaced, then do so. Make sure they work as they are supposed to before driving.

2.         Ask a friend or family member to check all of the lights in all used RVs before hitting the road. This will include the blinkers, the head and tail lights, and dashboard lights.

3.         Check the used RVs tires to make sure they have good tread and leveled pressure.

4.         Make sure the equipment that will be used for towing is also in excellent shape.

5.         Leave important emergency contact information with a friend or family member.

6.         Check all used RVs for working fire extinguishers that have a good expiration date. If there are battery operated alarms, check to make sure you have extra batteries and that they work.

7.         Clean the hood above the oven to avoid kitchen fires.

8.         Make sure your insurance papers are not expired and that you have a copy in the motor home.

9.         To be safe, write down the used motor homes sizes – height and weight. This will help you to avoid an accident.

When on the road:

1.         Fasten your seatbelt and make sure your passenger has seatbelt fastened whenever the motor home is in motion.

2.         Pay attention to your surroundings and practice good skills when driving.

3.         Don’t forget to use the proper signals when turning. Check distances before hitting the brakes, remembering that driving a recreational vehicle is different than driving a regular automobile. Letting other drivers know what your plans are through proper signal use will help protect yourself.

4.         When you approach hills or any curves, adjust the speed you are driving in the RV. This is also important when you change lanes on the road.

5.         Don’t speed up when approaching a yellow light. If you don’t know the weight of your RV or travel trailer, you may cause a large wreck. You could hurt yourself and the lives of your passengers, along with others on the road by letting your RV get out of control.

6.         If, perchance, you break down on the side of the road, use your hazard lights and place your orange warning triangles out. This includes flight tires.

7.         Pay extra attention if you are driving on a wet or snowy highway or path. Pull over if you cannot see clearly.

8.         One of the most important rules is to stay off of the phone when driving. Let others answer if it rings, and definitely let others do the dialing.