Preparing for severe weather and natural disasters is a crucial component of safe and responsible RV travel. Your Recreational Vehicle is a shelter, but it is not invulnerable. This guide provides essential steps for how to react to different types of natural disasters while on the road or parked.
I. Monitoring and Communication
Staying informed is the first line of defense against natural disasters.
- Weather Alerts: Always have a reliable method for receiving severe weather alerts, such as a NOAA weather radio with the tone alert feature.
- Local Information: Consult local news and government resources for disaster-specific information and evacuation routes in the area you are visiting.
- Communication Plan: Establish a clear protocol for contacting family or travel companions if separated. Know where to meet and when to check in.
II. Severe Weather (Tornadoes, Hurricanes)
These events require immediate action to ensure personal safety.
- Monitor Warnings: Pay close attention to watches and warnings. A watch means conditions are favorable; a warning means the event is imminent.
- Seek Shelter: Never remain in an RV during a high-impact weather event like a tornado or hurricane. Drive immediately to the nearest designated storm shelter, a reinforced public building, or a permanent, low-lying structure.
- Evacuation Routes: If you are in a hurricane zone, be prepared to follow all mandatory evacuation orders. Do not delay, as routes can become severely congested.
- Before Leaving the RV: Secure all loose outdoor items, shut off propane, and lock the vehicle. Take essential items and personal documents with you.
III. Earthquakes
Earthquakes can occur without warning and can pose structural and utility risks.
- If Driving: Pull over immediately to a clear location away from overpasses, bridges, utility poles, and trees. Set the parking brake and wait inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.
- If Parked: Remain inside the RV. Drop to the floor and cover your head and neck. Once the shaking stops, exit the RV and check the surrounding area for hazards like downed power lines or gas leaks before re-entering.
- Post-Quake Check: Inspect the RV for structural damage, gas leaks, water leaks, and electrical shorts. Do not use the generator or propane until you are certain there are no leaks.
IV. Wildfires
Wildfires pose a rapidly moving threat, and early evacuation is key to survival.
- Awareness: Be mindful of fire conditions, especially when camping in dry, wooded, or high-risk areas. Note all potential escape routes upon arrival.
- Evacuation: If an evacuation order is given, leave immediately. Do not wait for the fire to become visible.
- Preparation: Always keep the RV keys, a full tank of fuel, and an emergency kit ready for a quick departure.
- Route: Drive away from the fire and smoke, following designated emergency routes or instructions from authorities.
V. Flooding
Floodwaters are extremely dangerous, both to drive and walk through.
- Never Drive Through Water: It takes very little moving water to sweep away an RV or cause it to stall. Remember the slogan: "Turn Around Don't Drown."
- Move to High Ground: If heavy rain is expected or flooding is occurring, immediately move your RV to the highest ground possible.
- Evacuation: If you are in a low-lying area or near a river or creek, be prepared to leave the area for safe ground well before floodwaters rise.
VI. Developing an Emergency Plan
A documented plan helps your group act quickly and calmly under stress.
- Rehearsal: Conduct a drill of your emergency plan at the beginning of a long trip or when arriving at a new seasonal location.
- Kits: Ensure your emergency supply kit is fully stocked, easily accessible, and reviewed regularly.
- Vehicle Knowledge: Everyone in your party should know how to safely shut off the main propane, water, and electrical systems of the RV.