Hurricane Season and RVs
"Tropical Depression off the coast of Africa." Those are words that can sell more bottled water than 115 degree weather and more cans of soup than a 3 for 1 sale at Wal-Mart.
It's that time of year again. No need to go crazy. Just remain calm and keep in mind a couple of helpful hints if you are going to leave your RV behind. First, bring in any slide outs because even the perfect seal will have trouble holding out hurricane force driving rain. Next, try to park next to a building or any solid structure. Let it block the wind. The sidewalls of your RV or travel trailer can act like a big sail in heavy winds. Then, loosen a corner screw on the flange of your roof vents and put a rubber band from the screw to the operating handle. This will keep it from vibrating up then being blown off of your roof. Another helpful hint is to fill your fresh water tank. Empty your black and gray tanks and fill them with fresh water as well. This will add much needed weight to your RV. Chock the wheels as well to better stabilize the coach from being relocated by heavy gusts.
If you are going to evacuate, leave early or plan to stay in your car. By early I mean at least a day early, not a couple of hours.
There are many lists out there of what to buy for supplies, so I won't try to add my own. I can tell you to try to think outside the box a little when comprising said list. For example, if the water rises, ants and other bugs and pests will seek shelter above ground. A can of Raid would be in my hurricane kit. Also, keep an eye out for snakes and opossums looking for a new home.
I decided to hunker down for hurricanes Jean and Francis. I saw a complete warehouse full of parts disappear. It was just gone when we got back to work. The warehouse, all of it's contents and any evidence of it's existence were never seen again. So, if you are leaning towards "hunkering down," take precautions and be smart. Most of the time, the storm blows by in a few hours. Sit tight and don't go out in the storm. Debris, such as balls of concrete, can be hurled around by the hurricane force winds. I have found fist sized lumps of concrete on my roof, so be careful!
When the clouds part and the storm has passed, remember that I will be here. I have been through this before and I will have anything you need to help repair your coach. Also, God forbid, if you need your RV as a temporary home while your home is being repaired, I will have what you need to set it up for a lengthy stay. For question on anything RV, don't hesitate to call. 772 288 2221
Remember...
Travel Safe and Often
RV Gary
