RV Storage Tips: How to Store an RV During a Hurricane

If you are an RV owner living in an area prone to hurricanes, you know that proper preparation is key to keeping your vehicle safe during a storm. Storing your RV correctly can mean the difference between a smooth recovery after the hurricane and a costly, time-consuming repair process.

From choosing the right storage location to securing your RV during the storm, there are several important factors to consider when preparing for hurricane season. In this blog, we will outline essential steps for storing your RV during a hurricane, helping you safeguard your vehicle against potential damage. This blog is brought to you by RVnGO, the premier online RV rental platform connecting RV owners with renters nationwide.

What To Consider When Storing an RV

There’s a couple of things to keep in mind when storing an RV. One, you must understand the dangers of a hurricane. Wind can turn objects into dangerous projectiles and water can flood engines. So, storage location and insurance are both important to keep in mind. To summarize, you will want to consider the following when planning on storing your RV:

• Understanding the potential impact of a hurricane on RVs
• Choosing the right storage location
• Ensuring your insurance coverage is up to date

How to Prepare Your RV Storage

Preparing your RV for storage during a storm or hurricane is crucial to ensure its safety during extreme weather conditions. Before you store your RV, you need to give it a thorough cleaning and inspection. Check the exterior for any cracks, holes, or other damage that could allow water to enter the vehicle during a storm. Fix any issues you find to prevent further damage.

After cleaning the exterior, focus on the interior of your RV. Remove any loose items that could become projectiles in high winds, such as small appliances, books, and decorations. Secure larger items that can’t be removed, such as furniture and appliances, with straps or bungee cords.

Securing Your RV During the Hurricane

Securing your RV during a hurricane is essential to prevent damage or loss of the vehicle. First, park the RV in an open area, away from trees and structures that could fall on it. If possible, park it on high ground to avoid flooding.

Then, anchor and stabilize the RV using sturdy metal stakes or anchors driven into the ground. Use tie-down straps or chains to anchor the RV frame to the anchors, ensuring they are tight enough to prevent any movement in high winds.

Cover all windows and vents with storm shutters, plywood, or heavy-duty plastic sheets to prevent water and debris from entering the RV. Finally, turn off all utilities, including water, gas, and electricity, and disconnect the battery.

How to Inspect RV After a Hurricane or Storm

After a hurricane or storm, inspecting your RV is critical to identifying any damage and repairing it promptly. Start by checking the exterior for any visible signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or holes. Check the roof, windows, doors, and seals for any signs of leaks or water damage.

Then, inspect the interior, looking for signs of water damage, such as stained walls or ceilings, mold or mildew growth, and musty odors. Check all systems, including electrical, plumbing, and gas, to ensure they are functioning correctly. Finally, check the tires, brakes, and suspension to ensure they are in good condition and safe to use.

How to Clean and Repair RV After a Storm

Cleaning and repairing your RV after a storm is crucial to restore it to its pre-damage condition. First, clean the interior thoroughly, including the floors, walls, and furniture, using a mixture of bleach and water to kill any mold or bacteria. Open all windows and vents to air out the RV and use fans to speed up the drying process.

Then, repair any visible damage, such as leaks, holes, or broken parts, using appropriate materials and tools. Check all systems, including electrical, plumbing, and gas, to ensure they are functioning correctly. Finally, clean the exterior, including the roof, using a pressure washer and mild detergent to remove any dirt or debris. Inspect the tires, brakes, and suspension, and repair or replace any damaged components. By following these steps, you can clean and repair your RV after a storm and get back on the road safely.

Close all windows, skylights, and vents, and make sure they are sealed tightly to prevent water from entering the RV. Disconnect your RV’s battery and propane tanks and turn off all electrical and gas systems to prevent fire hazards. By taking these steps, you can prepare your RV for storage during a storm or hurricane and increase its chances of surviving extreme weather conditions intact.

Keep Your RV Safe During a Hurricane or Storm

In conclusion, properly storing your RV during a hurricane is crucial to protecting your vehicle and ensuring a speedy recovery after the storm. By taking steps to secure your RV and inspecting it for damage after the hurricane, you can increase its chances of survival and prevent further damage. Remember to always choose a safe storage location, remove loose items, and disconnect utilities before the storm. If you do experience damage, take prompt action to clean and repair your RV to avoid further problems down the road.

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