Davis Law Group, P.S.

An RV Fire Can be Fatal – Fire Hazards, Part 1

Did you know that RV fires are one of the largest causes of motor coach loss in America today?

Many RV or motor home owners do not even realize hazards that can start fires on your coach.

The following are motor home fire hazards:

• Check for grease, oil, and road dust build up on the engine and transmission. If grime is combined with a fuel leak or short-circuited wire, a fire could start. Keep your coach's underpinnings clean.

• Gasoline and propane can pose an immediate, explosive danger. Though diesel fuel is less volatile, it dissipates more slowly, so it remains a danger longer. Deal at once with any leaks or spills, and use all fuels in adequately vented areas.

• Rubber fuel lines are frequently used to connect metal lines to the electronic fuel injection system, or to the carburetor in older coaches. Lines and connections between the fuel tank and the engine should be checked on a monthly basis. See a mechanic if there is any sign of a leak.

• Inspect your radiator. A hard-working engine manifold can get as hot as 900 degrees F.

• If you have a quick-disconnect fitting on your water hookup, these hoses can be unhooked instantly to fight a fire. If a nearby coach is burning and you cannot move your coach but can safely stay close enough to keep it hosed down, you may be able to save it.

• Liquid petroleum gas, like gasoline fumes, tends to pool in low spots in the coach until a spark sets it off. Newer motor homes are equipped with an automatic shut-off for when its sensor detects an LPG leak. If you have a leak, be sure to shut the propane off at the tank.

• Dragging brakes can create enough friction to ignite a tire or brake fluid. Some of the worst fires are those caused when one tire of a dual or tandem pair goes flat, scuffs, and ignites long before the driver feels any change in handling. At each stop, give tires at least an eyeball check. When tires are cool, tap your duals with a club and listen for a difference in sound from one tire to the next. You can often tell if one is going soft.

• Spontaneous combustion can occur in damp charcoal. Buy charcoal fresh, keep it dry, and store it in a covered metal container. Rags soiled with auto wax or cleaners that contain petroleum products or other oil-based cleaning materials can also spontaneously combust if disposed of in a combustible container.

• Driving with propane on can add to the danger if you are involved in an accident or have a fire.

• Most refrigerators will keep food cold or frozen for eight hours without running while you travel.

• If you store your coach, be sure to check the flue before starting your refrigerator on propane. Birds and insects can build nests and clog the flue, causing a fire or excess carbon monoxide to enter your coach.

• Deadly, invisible, odorless CO usually results from exhaust leaks or misuse of heating devices.

• Be sure to put your CO detector in the bedroom. The proper location is on the ceiling or on an inside wall, at least eight inches from the ceiling and at least four feet from the floor.

• Batteries produce explosive gases. Keep flame, cigarettes, and sparks away. Be sure your battery compartment is properly vented. Keep vent caps tight and level. Check your battery monthly.

• Replace swollen batteries immediately. Use extreme care when handling batteries -- they can explode.

Click the link to read Be Prepared for a Motor Home Accident: Follow These Steps