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RV Safety Articles
Plan Ahead for Safety
Just because you recreational vehicle is small and lightweight does not mean you can overlook safety. The same dangerous situations can occur with small and lightweight recreational vehicles that arise with larger models A few precautions can save your vacation and keep all your outings pleasurable.
Both new and experienced recreational vehicle enthusiast need to plan ahead for a safe and enjoyable trip. The risk for potential accidents can be reduced by careful planning and preparation. Overloading a recreational vehicle is a leading cause of serious accidents and breakdowns. Braking malfunctions, unsafe steering and tire failures can result from improper loading of recreational vehicles.
How much is too much? If you are not sure just how much weight your recreational vehicle can safely haul refer to your owners manual or manufactures data plate. Manufactures websites can also be useful sources of information for these limits. Look for the gross vehicle weight rating ( GVWR ). The GVRW is the total weight that your recreational vehicle can safely carry. Other useful ratings are the individual axle and tire ratings. If you are unable to locate these limits you can email
Lightweight RV News and we will see if we can assist you in determining your recreational vehicle safe limits.How Much Weight Is Too Much ?
Do not try to guess what your recreational vehicle weighs loaded. Load your RV including water, propane, people, etc and take it to a public scales. Weigh each axle of your vehicle. Refer to your axle weight and tire limits to see if your within a safe range. Total all axle weights and make sure you are below the manufacturers GVWR. If you are not overloaded make sure your load is balanced. Do not load too much on one side. A balanced load is much easier to tow or drive. Also, front to back balance is also important. Step back and look at your recreational vehicle. Make sure that there is not too much weight on the hitch or on the rear of the RV. Be sure to secure all items. Loose items can cause damage and be a safety issue if not properly secured.
Safety Items Check List
Check the following items before each trip. Allow enough time to make repairs before departure time.
Tires - Proper inflation and tread wear.
Brakes - Proper operation and wear. You should remove tires and wheels once a year and inspect the pads or shoes for proper wear allowances.
Lights - Proper illumination and operation. Make sure all brake lights and turn signals work properly.
Storage compartments - Make sure all storage compartments lock properly.
Propane gas tanks - Check that propane tanks are secure and do not leak. Perform leak test before each trip.*
Appliances - Check your stove, refrigerator, and furnace for safe operation. A leak test should be performed before each trip.* Make sure your tanks are equipped with safety valves in case of pressure buildup.
Safety chains - Inspect your safety chains to make sure they are secure and work properly. If you are unsure consult a trailer dealer for proper installation and use.
Safety items - Check fire extinguishers, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for proper operation. If they are battery powered make sure there are fresh batteries installed. It is recommended that your carry two 2 ½ pound fire extinguishers. Keep on in the tow vehicle and one in the kitchen area of your recreational vehicle.
Mirrors - Make sure your mirrors are secure and adjusted properly. You should be able to see the rear wheels and a distance of 30 - 40 feet behind the rear of the towed vehicle.
Balance - Check your RV making sure that the GVRW, axle and tire weights are within limits. Then step back and look at the balance. Does the weight distribution in the front look equal to the back. Make any adjustments necessary to balance your recreational vehicle.
Know your Limitations
Become familiar with the vehicle you are operating and the one you are towing. It is important to know where your blind spots are and how your recreational vehicle handles in turns. Allow a larger turning radius in turns to avoid dragging your towed vehicle into obstructions. Most RV parks have drive through spaces but it will remove a lot of tension and strain if the operator is comfortable with backing the vehicle.
Take frequent rest stops and perform a walk around safety inspection at every fuel stop. Look for unsecured items, unsafe tires and perform a general safety check. This is what most truckers do and it has worked well to avoid serious breakdowns on the road.
Proper preparation, maintenance and safety habits can make your trip free of most unexpected breakdowns and enjoyable. For more information or questions email your concerns to
Lightweight RV News.
*Use a mixture off liquid soap and water to perform a leak test. Paint this mixture on all fittings and lines to determine if there is a leak. With pressure in the lines, bubbles indicate a leak.
David L. Smith
Lightweight RV News
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