How do you prepare for natural disasters while in an RV?

Natural disaster safety and preparedness is important, no matter where you live or what disasters you may face.

A natural disaster emergency plan is a little more challenging when you live or travel in an RV, though.

RV life is great for many reasons. It allows you to see the world.

It gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. It also eliminates the burdens of home ownership.

But when it comes to natural disasters, being in an RV is more dangerous than a house. What can be done to prepare for an RVing emergency?

Steps to Take to Prepare for Natural Disasters in an RV

First, you must think ahead. Don't just assume you'll never encounter a natural disaster in your RV.

Emergency preparedness is always key to ensuring the least amount of damage to your property and your family.

There are several things you can do to prepare for a natural disaster in an RV, whether it's a tornado, hurricane, or wildfire.

Be a Responsible RV Owner and Stay Alert

You've spent a lot of money on your RV for your family, so be responsible to make sure it lasts a long time.

Stay alert to the weather wherever you're planning to travel. Know if a storm is coming, for example.

Be sure to have a reliable weather device, whether it's an app or a weather radio. You need to be able to follow weather warnings.

Obviously, if you see bad weather on a route you're planning to take, adjust your plans.

Stay where you are currently or take another route. Don't take unnecessary risks and put your family in an unnecessary RVing emergency.

Also, be aware of your surroundings. Is the state you're traveling through experiencing wildfires? Is it tornado season in the area you’re planning to visit?

Just knowing this information will help you plan better and have a greater chance of avoiding natural disasters.

Stay Stocked

When you know a natural disaster is approaching, don't hesitate to take steps to prepare.

First, you want to make sure you have plenty of water and food for your family. If you're running low, run to the store to stock up.

The great thing about having a Berkey water filter is that you don't have to buy a ton of bottled water. And you don't have to worry about contaminated water due to disasters.

As long as your RV's water tank is full (be sure to fill that too), you're good to go.

Be sure to also have a stocked first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, and anything else you may need during an emergency.

Another important thing to do to prepare for natural disasters is to fill your gas tank before stopping for the night.

The purpose of this is to make sure that if you need to make a quick escape, you don't have to stop for gas before leaving town.

Many RVers settle in for the night with a low tank and then fill up as they head out in the morning.

But if you anticipate a storm coming, fill up before you park so you can leave quicker.

RV Concerns During a Natural Disaster

There are several dangers you need to be aware of during a natural disaster. Here is a list of things to be mindful of:

• Light fixtures or windows that can shatter
• Large falling trees or telephone poles
• Gas or propane leaks
• High winds or floods that could move or topple the RV

If a natural disaster is approaching, move to a safe, enclosed area, if possible. A bathhouse with few windows is a good example.

But, if your only option is to stay in your RV, follow these steps to prepare for the dangers listed above.

If you own an RV cover, use it. Or, roll in the sides and draw the blinds.

Secure any hard or dangerous items inside your RV (like glass items, pots, etc.).

Hide under your table, a cushion, or a mattress. Don't use anything that requires electricity and make sure your cell phones are charged beforehand.

Turn off your gas or propane to avoid leaks. Unless, that is, you're in a blizzard.

Then you would want to make sure your propane tank is full and working properly so your family doesn't freeze.

Purchase RV anchors to help prevent your RV from moving or tipping over.

The Best Way to Avoid Natural Disasters in an RV

In order to avoid natural disasters, the best thing to do is be mindful of what's happening around you and leave an area before disaster strikes.

It can be terrifying to be in an RV during a hurricane or tornado, so be wise to avoid them as often as possible.

If you know that a hurricane is coming to your area soon, flee to another location.

If you detect smoke in a wildfire area, don't wait around to get confirmation to leave.

This is the beauty of having an RV: you're not forced to stay in any one location.

If you want more information on what to do during specific natural disasters, this article can help.

RV Living and Natural Disasters

For those of you who live on the road, you know there are many benefits to that way of life.

There are many things to consider as an RV owner. Be sure to prepare for natural disasters in advance.

Natural disasters don't have to ruin your trip, or worse destroy your RV. Be smart and plan for any emergency you might face.