RV Fire Safety Tips

Whether you're heading to the campground or parking your RV for the weekend, fire safety should always be part of your travel plans. Nearly 2,000 RV fires occur in the United States each year, many of which are preventable through regular maintenance and safe operating practices.

Before You Travel

Before every trip, perform a thorough inspection of your RV.

• Test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and propane leak detectors.
• Keep at least one ABC-rated fire extinguisher in the kitchen, bedroom and an exterior storage compartment or tow vehicle.
• Make sure everyone traveling with you knows where fire extinguishers are located and how to use them.
• Review your emergency escape plan and ensure everyone knows how to operate doors, emergency windows and roof hatches.
• Inspect electrical cords for damage, loose connections, or exposed wiring. Replace damaged cords immediately.
• Store charcoal in a dry, covered metal container to reduce the risk of spontaneous combustion.

Maintain Your RV

Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent fires.

• Have brakes inspected regularly. Dragging brakes can overheat and ignite tires or nearby materials.
• Tighten electrical connections, especially 12-volt wiring, which can loosen during travel.
• Inspect batteries, battery cables and electrical systems for corrosion, damage or loose connections.
• Check propane lines, appliances and fittings for leaks before each trip.
• Inspect engine hoses and fluid lines for leaks or wear.
• Address any mechanical or electrical issues promptly. Most highway vehicle fires begin because of equipment failures.

Drive Safely

• Check your tires at every stop for signs of damage or overheating.
• Turn off propane at the tank and shut down propane-powered appliances before traveling whenever possible. Always turn propane appliances off before entering a fuel station.
• Avoid parking over dry grass or other combustible vegetation. Hot exhaust systems and catalytic converters can easily ignite vegetation.
• Check for dragging chains or wires. Chains can cause sparks along roadways and lead to wildfires.

Fire Safety at the Campsite

• Never leave cooking unattended.
• Turn off appliances and exhaust fans when leaving the RV.
• Keep combustibles such as paper towels, curtains and clothing away from cooking appliances and heat sources.
• Do not overload electrical outlets or power strips.
• If an extension cord is necessary, use only a heavy-duty outdoor-rated cord sized for the electrical load.
• Immediately repair propane or fuel leaks and always operate generators in well-ventilated areas.
• Keep campfires, tiki torches, grills and lanterns well away from vehicles, tents and other combustible materials.

If a Fire Starts

Your first priority is getting everyone to safety.

• Evacuate immediately.
• Only attempt to extinguish a very small fire if you have a clear escape route, and it is safe to do so.
• Never re-enter a burning RV for personal belongings.
• Call 911 as soon as you are in a safe location.
• Be prepared to provide your exact location. Campgrounds and rural areas can be difficult to locate, so know your campsite number, road name, or GPS location before an emergency occurs.

Storing Your RV

Even when your RV isn't in use, fire hazards can still exist. Taking a few simple precautions before placing your RV in storage can help protect your investment.

• Disconnect shore power unless it is needed for approved battery maintenance.
• If using a battery maintainer, use a quality smart charger and inspect batteries regularly for damage, corrosion, or swelling.
• Turn off the propane supply at the tank before storing your RV.
• Remove combustible materials such as oily rags, aerosol cans, fireworks and excess fuel containers from the RV.
• Clean out refrigerators, pantries and cooking areas to reduce odors and discourage pests that can damage wiring. Inspect electrical wiring for signs of rodent activity before and after storage. Rodents can chew insulation, creating a fire hazard.
• Keep the area around the RV free of dry grass, weeds, leaves and other combustible vegetation, especially during wildfire season.
• Do not store gasoline-powered equipment, propane cylinders or other flammable materials underneath or immediately next to the RV.
• If your RV is stored indoors, ensure there is adequate clearance around the vehicle and avoid blocking exits or access points.
• Check smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and propane detectors before placing the RV in storage and again before your next trip.
• Before taking the RV out of storage, perform a complete inspection of the electrical system, propane appliances, tires and engine compartment before hitting the road.

Remember

A few minutes spent inspecting your RV before each trip can prevent a fire. Regular maintenance, working smoke alarms, functioning propane and carbon monoxide detectors, and a well-practiced escape plan can help keep you and your family safe at home or on the road.