I've been travelling for almost 50 years, either in a van of some sort or a tractor trailer (31 years over the road), and agree with much of what you've presented. I'd like to add 1)always park so you can jump in the driver's seat (which should be empty, not full of stuff) and leave immediately...which is why I'd never have a 5th wheel, 2)don't park in the back of lots where it is dark...lights can be your friends, 3)put up or pull your window coverings as soon as possible so no one sees you're alone in there (provided you are), 4)at a fuel pump, be it gas or diesel, be prepared to douse anyone who comes near you...fuel in the eyes HURTS, 5)never scream HELP...scream FIRE. Most people will respond more quickly, 6)NEVER, EVER be complacent...always be aware of your surroundings and anyone in them!
@ No, I did not! The objective is to distract the potential harm-doer with pain, not burn the place down. I happen to know this works as I have had to do it myself, and no flames were involved. Perhaps you were attempting to be funny, but DO NOT light a match, people!!
Fuel at gas pump sprayed on someone who comes near you?? For starters that's a crime and blinding someone is also a crime. What if they have a cigarette in their hand? Are you going to set everyone on fire including you? Totally bad advice there. The rest is good but the fuel pump advice is not. ps this is NOT a joke :|
Former Deputy Sheriff in Florida. My wife and I are just getting to enjoy RVing. If there is a security issue I send my wife out, she's Cuban and is vicious!!
Good advice. In Chicago we said, "there's always sharks in the water." Meaning someone is always watching + waiting for an opportunity. Not paranoid, just prepared. Fact of life.
I think the biggest threat and most ignored safety concern in RV's is fire! Keep a couple of metal fire extinguishers in strategic places around your rig. They can also double as a safety device against intruders and bee swarms.
Did a ride-a-long with an officer a couple weeks ago….what an eye opener! This guy could multi-task 10 things at a time, and still be aware of his surroundings. I thought I had pretty good awareness, but the officer put it to shame noticing the details I had missed. Hats off to the “Men in Blue!” I thought I lived in a really quiet neighborhood for 25 years, in a three hours, there were shots fired into an apartment and drug deals going down a block from the house. He said it was common in the area, just not on our street. They don’t pay enough to put your life on the line every day!
Great points. One I think you glossed over was the issue of leaving things exposed that you think are worthless. Crimes of opportunity are not planned. Your lawn chair becomes a tool to break a window. Your folding table becomes a ladder to gain access. Your kids toy shovel becomes a pry tool to open a door or compartment. You get the idea. Best bet is to secure or put away everything. Years ago i had a station wagon. (no trunk). They broke in and stole my stuff including a ratty old blanket. When I asked the police officer why did they waste time stealing that he said. "that's how they carried your stuff away"
Yes Fred all good points. Like we said in the video, the best security is not to leave anything out. It’s a balancing act of how much security you want vs how much freedom you want lol. Like Covid. The easiest way to stop the spread is lock everything down, but there are serious implications with that also as we have seen in some areas. Thanks for watching and the comment. Izzy
@@EndlessRVing Not to argue with your COVID example but locking yourself away only "slows it down" not stop it. Everyone will be exposed to it. Some will get the virus and fall seriously ill and may die from it if their immune system is compromised. Others will have mild symptoms and easily recover and yet, others won't be affected by it at all. "Slow the Spread" doesn't mean "Eliminate the Virus spread" like it's being reported on the news. It's here to stay and we have to learn to live with it just like we do the flu or common cold.
A friend, also retired law enforcement, told us to never automatically open our door if someone pounds on our door and claims to me law enforcement. Have them put their badge to a window so we can Verify.
Call 911 and have them verify or send out another cop (preferably the Supervisor) before you open the door. Keep repeating that you are waiting for verification for your safety.
I am a retired law enforcement officer, 33 years in patrol and investigations. I agree 100% with everything you said, we are fulltime and think more people who rv should be safety minded.
Last month, traveling through New Mexico we stopped to walk our dogs at a casino complex. The casino was closed but the gas station wasn’t. It was also daylight. While I had my dog a few hundred yards from our vehicle, my husband was on the blind side. In pulls a car with dark tinted windows, it sweeps around open gas pumps to pull in front of my direction of travel. My lizard brain kicked in, I old lady hot footed to my vehicle, yelling at my husband to “get the bag”, the occupants of the car followed me. Mind you, we are the only people outside and the store entrance is a ways away in the opposite direction. Fortunately, I was able to get my vehicle before they got to me. Soon as they came around my auto and saw my honey and me with “my little friend”, they turned into Wally of Leave it to Beaver. Gee, that’s a nice dog you have Mrs. I was gonna rob you. Point to this story? Night or day be aware and prepared.
Thanks for sharing the story. No one expects to become a victim and sometimes we can take some simple steps to reduce those chances. Glad you were safe. Izzy
Been there - at a rest stop and this guy is over a lane filling his tank. I got out Iggy (125 LB black lab mix) along with our terrier hound mix to walk them. Iggy who is usually a softy kept staring at the guy growling. We high tailed it out of there.
Well written if i gamble i do it online. i can see you are just like me very causious as the ones was first blocking your escape path.never been to mexico but if i so visit i won t stop at a casino.
My concealed carry instructor stressed over and over that the last thing you want to do is shoot someone. He said to do everything possible to avoid this. Good advice.
@@starwoodstudios1, you are a man and judging from your picture a tall man, however, I'm a woman and a gun is my best friend. There is no way I would allow a man to advance on me without pulling my weapon. Robbers rarely stalk alone they come in pairs or threesomes. Most criminals would rather teach you a lesson than rob you once you have challenge them and not wound them. They figure you don't have a weapon so they go back to get something bigger and return or lie in wait for you. A woman can't afford this tactic she must be willing and able to strike and move while he's at a distance.
I am a retired teacher and always kept a can of hornet/wasp spray in my classroom...accurate up to 30 feet...in case of a classroom intruder. I am told (never had to try it) that it is very painful and works well. Thanks for the video.
My father made me keep a can by me in the front seat the day I began driving well over 20+ years ago. Not a handgun but will give you time to drive away and stop someone trying to grab you
Another safety tip: If you have a tow vehicle or truck for your fifth wheel, park it straight into your rig with headlights facing you. If you hear something outside press the panic button on your key fob and the alarm will sound and lights will come on and most likely scare someone off, possibly completely out of your campground.
i heard what i thought was a sensible comment on another rv channel that you always want your pickup truck facing out in case you had a drastic situation where you and your family had to quickly jump in the truck get away to safety pronto. if the situation was that drastic, then yeah you'd be leaving your rig, but you'd live to tell about it. Put a motion-sensor light near the front of the 5th wheel if you need to light up that space. you can still push the panic alarm on your truck key fob to light up the night :)
I live full time in my rv. I have solar powered lights installed on all 4 sides of my rv. They are motion sensors. Anyone comes close the lights light up. The best one I've found is at Walmart. Roof mounted, two light panels and can be easily removed when towing. It's 30 bucks.
Very good advice. Another " game" i have started with my son is, i tell him to always pay attention to people and i told him what to look for as far as people carrying concealed weapons. The "game" is, if he can spot it (a person with a firearm, concealed or not and knife etc.. concealed or not) before i do i will give him a $1. (Lol he is fairly young so a $1 still makes him excited 🤫). It's my way of getting him looking around for that kind of thing. I also told him once he spots it, to just privately and calmly tell me. Not only is it teaching him to pay attention but it helps me too by giving me another set of eyes.
@@EndlessRVing Thanks and true, but sometimes even the best still show signs that they are carrying. Some people will touch in one way or another as they get in or out of a car out of habit, walk different, you can see it when they reach for something on a shelf, don't wear the right clothes or holster so you can see the bulge of the gun and as you know, the list goes on. And of course the worst way to carry IMO open carry.
It's refreshing to see unadulterated, unfiltered, straight and honest presentation of facts. First time I've seen any of your videos but now I am a subscriber.
As a solo woman full time RV'er If I'm at a truck stop or somewhere that seems shady I will use a rubber bungee cord on the inside of my RV to keep the door secure. I also have a pair of man's boots to set outside by the door. My 3 cats are very good also at alerting me to noises I may not hear.
As a retired solo female truck driver, may I suggest adding a bell or two to that bungee cord? The bungee can be stretched and cut...the bell will alert you to this in time to get your "protection" in hand.
Thanks for sharing. I'm a single woman just getting organized to set out RVing by myself, and I'm very interested in common sense approach to safety and security so thanks!
Thanks for letting us know these things! I knew of a couple, that were boom docking and in the night, they had a truck pull up to the front of their camper, rattled their hitch lock, they seen the truck through their camera, thankfully, they had a hitch- lock on their camper. They didn't know, who they were. Her husband, told them, whoever you are, I see you in my camera. You need to leave. He got his gun and went out there and no one there... They got up, early the next morning and seen the hood of a truck, in the woods, partially hidden. They left immediately. Scary!
This was a great video and a necessary video. I take all the precautions you do and as a single, 59 year old woman who RV’s alone, it makes me feel much more secure. I therefore have a much better and relaxing time. There shouldn’t even be a controversy over firearms. Let me explain …… if you own a firearm you should know how to use it, safely. You should know everything about it, like taking it apart, cleaning it, loading it, etc. You should have gone through a gun safety course and taken lessons on how to correctly load, use and store the weapon(s). If you choose to conceal carry, get that concealed carry permit!! If you don’t do those things; don’t own a firearm. That’s my two cents. 🤣😂
@Lori W I agree completely. This is what the "Let's give up our guns" ppl need to understand and the idiots who own guns should know. Also, BAD PEOPLE WILL NEVER GIVE UP THEIR GUNS. Duh.
My aunt and uncle were sleeping in their RV at night when my uncle woke up and heard a couple of young men around their RV up to no good. He quietly slid open a window and then loaded his shoot gun. Just the noise of him loading the gun was enough to scare them away. Instead of confronting them he scared them away while staying safe inside the RV.
Lol I always say the 2nd scariest thing ever is the sound of a pump shotgun racking a shell into the chamber. The number 1 scariest thing ever is that shotgun sound followed by a tiny female voice saying “I’ve got a shotgun!” Lol
Thanks so much for sharing your tips for protecting yourself on the road. They make good sense. Years ago I worked in a detective bureau in Illinois and my eyes were opened to the various threats that exist all around us. My most valuable lesson learned was always pay attention to your surroundings and know the people you are with. Criminals come in two types, the successful ones who achieve their goal and the unsuccessful ones who either give up or get caught. The most successful criminals are the ones you don’t see coming…the ones you would never suspect. So keep your eyes open and know what to do in a difficult situation.
i am 70 and not the best health. I am thinking as I get healthier and lose weight I am seriously thinking about van or small RV after my 93 y/o mom is dancing with Jesus. I appreciate you. You are the first I have watched who appear to be willing to give a balance of things to consider.
Take care, get a little more healthy, and get out there. I'm 71 and the "wind in the hair" feeling of heading out in a mini RV is rejuvenating. God Bless ya
Such excellent info and potentially life saving! I grew up in a city and I ALWAYS lock the doors, home car etc. It's ingrained in me. I think I avoided a mugging one night when a young man started shadowing me and my husband. I stopped in my tracks and he stopped too. I did an about face and started walking the other direction. My hubby didnt understand why I yanked him backwards (especially cuz he had a few drinks). The guy kept walking forward because it was a busy street. My feeling was he was going to tail us till we walked down a side street and then attack. I just had a really bad feeling. I am always super aware, borderline paranoid some would say.
I get frightened when I see so many young people (especially females) walking along wearing headphones. They are blocking one of their ways of self protection - to hear what's going on around them.
My kids do it😭- I know they are in their twenties, but it absolutely makes you vulnerably to attacks are ANY AGE. Working on them using just one and at a low volume🕊
I think you'll find that most are not listening to any music, often its a way to avoid having someone try to talk to you or you can pretend not to hear them without appearing rude.
SItuational awareness is the single most important skill to stay safe. Like you said trust your gut and be aware. I'm 73 and learned this when I was 19. I spent 25 yrs in countless unarmed fighting forms. I also spent 20+ yrs in combat shooting comps. With all that I am proud to say I have never had the need to use any one of these due to my first learning to be and stay aware.
There is an old saying I've heard all my life from very wise family members. When seconds counts the police officers (by no fault of their own) are always minutes away. A word to the common sense crowd is sufficient. Smith & Wesson appears to be very popular names for traveling companions. Be smart and safe.
Great video, thanks! Regarding tip #6, the RV locks: I'm a retired locksmith and if you go to a full service locksmith shop, you can easily have all of the locks in your rig re-keyed. That method is quite cost effective. Many of those shops may even have parking spaces that they might be willing to keep open for you if you've arranged an appointment. Having said that; if you need to have a shop schedule a service call for you, it's well worth the cost, if you think of it as some added insurance for your rig. (Tip; if you schedule a service call in advance and on a weekday, some shops are willing to charge less than they would on a weekend or in the middle of the night.)
We have had a resent run at Adventureland Park Campground of breakins, vandalism, and things getting stolen especially bikes. Great video and good timing!
I use to be a thief, n i traveled a lot, but didn't steal from two many campers, the worst thing i stole from a camper was a really good fishing pole, but not to sale but to use cause i was living in a tent n wanted to catch some salmon But once i thought about stealing a bike from these two bikers on a long trip n had their camp gear on it, but they came up the trail just in time when i was close to them n checking them out People thieves can strike at anytime n might not of at that time but they saw a really good opportunity to steal easier n took it, also thieves have working thieving demons, the demons can set it up n let you know some things n the crime goes better cause of this, this is what they did with me, i use to get visions of crimes before doing them, they had it all planned out good usually, also at times they just took control of me a lot n did it rather i knew what was going on or not, there were times they possessed me to steal when i didnt want to There were times they had people lose credit or bank cards n let me find them, or people lost them n when me n my thieving demons came they let me find them, one time they had a guy throw his by me n he was wondering what was going on n he picked it back up So people be aware human being thieves n their demons thieves can strike at anytime anywhere, they can pop up out in the middle of no where at times
The “Light Ranger” is the best purchase I’ve made. It’s by Devos. It gives 360 light coverage, and it telescopes to 9 feet. If you buy the filters, you can have a yellow or orange glow over most of the campsite…and it doesn’t attract bugs.
Yes I agree with all you are saying, I'm a retired military with twenty-eight years in the Army and I have seen a lot of things. I did replace all of my locks with RVLOCKS my last defense is that I do carry but I will just leave if we can, I'm always looking around to see what's going on around me. I also have a 1st degree black belt but I have been out of that for a while now but feel that I can defend myself against the average guy. This is a crazy world we live in but I do select where we stay carefully, it's just my wife and I and we are seniors citizens who love God. All and all Christ protects us and we don't worry but we are very careful great video. I do need to get some pepper spray those just in case.
Many times women will get a ‘gut feeling’ about a situation or a person and maybe that odd feeling in the hair on the back of their neck. I was always taught that it is Mother Nature, or your primal instincts for self defense, talking to you. Never ignore those feelings. If you do, it may be the last time you feel anything.
Great information! I have been traveling in my 1994 Winnebago Warrior class A full time for a little over 2 years filming. I have left several times when it just didn't feel right. I never open my door when someone knocks on my door. I talk through the window even if they say they are security or the police. Thank you for the information.
Being aware of your surroundings first and foremost in ANY situation will keep you ahead of the game safety wise. Before RVing, we stopped at a hotel for the night. When we found our first floor room windows screwed shut, we got our money back and left that place and stayed 50 more miles down the road. Excellent video, guys.
I would add sound to your list. I carry a small airhorn that makes as much noise as a big one. My daughter carrys a key fob alarm that is also loud and very compact.
Thank you. Good advice, even when you are just driving your car and you just pull into a rest stop. I try to stay aware and act like I know what I am doing. A few years ago, I was traveling more and the hair on my neck stood up a couple of times.
I haven’t finished watching… please forgive me if I spoke too soon… many new vehicles come with auto start. If the key FOB is present, you can unlock and start your vehicle with the push of a button. Vehicles come with two FOB’s - DO NOT LEAVE ONE IN THE VEHICLE WITH THE BATTERIES IN IT‼️ Many don’t realize that just like cars, if you leave and also leave say the spare key FOB in the glove box… anyone can walk up, unlock it, enter, and drive off.
Great tips! My husband is a retired LEO. He spliced the 30 amp cable on our Sprinter Class C so that the surge protector is protected (from weather and those up to no good) inside a locked storage bay. We plan to do the same on our next motorhome as well. We're trying to sell our current RV so we can buy a small Class A. Izzy, thank you for your service! 🖤💙🖤
I have a pit bull and me or my wife can walk even before daylight as long as we take her believe me nobody can come close without us knowing she’s very protective
@@jerrymock9211 When a threat like a child is out to get the newspaper or whatever and Molly the Pitbull has "perceived" a threat, YOU ARE NOT STRONG ENOUGH TO STOP HER. That is the reality. Look up the facts, if you really want to know them. Most Pitbull owners DON'T want to know the truth, but only decide to blame the owners. They all say the same 2 things: "My dog would NEVER attack anyone.", or "There is no such thing as a bad dog, only bad owners." Tell that to all the maimed and dead babies, children, adults, elderly adults and all the pets maimed or dead in the neighborhood. Go ahead. Do your due diligence.
Lori Elizabeth Wade you are 1000% CORRECT!!! Thank you for telling it like it is. They have the very real POTENTIAL to be VERY dangerous animals. Saying their dog wouldn’t hurt a flea is like saying one’s Golden Retriever would NEVER fetch something and bring it to you. It’s all about purpose-bred dogs. That’s all I’m going to say on the matter lest my heart has palpitations. Very sore subject for me.
Thank you Izzy and MJ for the great video. I am also from a law enforcement background, and can't stress enough the importance of knowing your surroundings. We are cooped up at home right now after my stroke, but I can't wait to go back out there.
32 yr LEO vet from Canada. You provided some excellent advise. Especially for civilians who have never encountered these situations or are not familiar with any type of defensive weapons. Please keep up the good work. A brother from Canaba.
I have motion detector lights around my rig. If I'm in a place that has "that feeling" but I'm too tired to try to go somewhere else until I get sleep, I set up driveway alarms. I'll rig cans and noisemakers on fishing string- that deters a lot of would-be intruders.
December of 2017 we were getting our fifthwheel ready to go South to Gulf Shores. The trailer was stored on a couple of lots in a residential area about a mile from where we live. When I walked up to the trailer I saw the door ajar and found that someone had taken a flat bar and forced entry. They stole the tv's and a couple small items. Damage to the door was over $1000. I found out the door can be forced open in a couple of minutes on trailers. I put a led dusk to dawn, motion sensor porch light on and added a way to have a security chain on the inside of the door to prevent entry while we were inside. I was already using a commercial pin lock for semi trailers. I'm sure glad they didn't pry open the storage bay doors, there was an 8 drawer tool box filled with tools.
...I got mugged once. It was at bus station in Philly. I was doing my business at bathroom and someone told me to give him my money. I said to him just wait a bit cuz I’m make water. Got business done, turned around, a little guy with a little knife with scared look was there... i pushed him then he fell and rolled back, I walked out of bathroom without washing hands. Good ol’days.
Excellent advice on firearms, particularly the admonition regarding the need for training! Owning a gun does not make you armed any more than owning a violin makes you a musician!
Excellent video - We are from Canada and often wonder how safe are we, in the US given the fact that our Canadian license plates would tell anyone, 'we can't fire back' because tourists not allowed to buy/carry/use guns in the US. I do like the bear spray option though and have bought some while travelling in the Pacific Northwest. I totally agree about 'be aware of your surroundings at all times'. I used to work for welfare and like you, I look around and know where the exit is! Again, thank you.
Love the pepper spray (pom) but the only time I went harder was Williams Az. Ratty van pulled in behind us at about 3am. Turned on the outside light and opened the door with the barrel of my shotgun. Their "car trouble" seemed to self repair as they left in less than a minute. Much like my base ball bat, which comes with a ball and dog leash, I try to have some bird shot and hunting literature near by. (ask your attorney ) My home gun has a cartridge belt with a loop for the pepper spray. love the channel. Keep it up
Wow. I never stay in RV parks, but boondock exclusively. That takes care of the vast majority of security concerns. I can't imagine enjoying RVing if I felt the need for multiple security cameras, locks, special safety procedures, etc. I'd rather just get away from any potential thieves altogether by staying away from the crowds.
Just an FYI crimes happen in every neighborhood, big or small. If people are near or have the potential to be near the potential for crimes exist. Thanks for watching. Izzy
@@EndlessRVing Hi Izzy, I often don't even have a neighbour in sight when I am on BLM land in the southwest US. If there is another RV in the distance, if they were to approach my RV, myself or my dog would see them coming from a long ways away. If nobody is ever near your RV, it is hard for them to steal anything from it.
If I'm in a camp around other RV, I use snake shot. It is devastating at close range .I do not have to worry about over penetration. Unintentionally hurting someone in a nearby RV is less.
Love the video and it just reinforces a lot of the things I have thought about or done over the years. I am a veteran and worked in law enforcement for awhile so have had firearms training, but still understand that we have to be aware of the state(s) we are traveling in (been RV’ing since 1973) because of the different state laws. Keep up the great videos as they are appreciated and will help those who are new or fairly new to RV’ing have a better idea of what they need to learn and/or be aware of.
My husband was a deputy sheriff and always sat looking towards a door Never with his back facing a door...all your suggestions were great for sharing safety...Also this is is important watch your children just because you're in a campground doesn't make it a safe environment...it's a perfect place for Pedophiles to be in contact with children. So keep watch or at least know where they will be.
Many go by the City of Houston, DHS Run Hide Fight. I say; Know Go Show! Know where the doors, exits, security 👮🏻♂️, CCTV 📹 are. Be ready or able to flee if available. Run too, do NOT stop to aid 👴🏽👵🏻. I saw a recent spree shooting incident: retail location. A victim was shot 💥 because she was trying to get a terrified older lady out of the way. The woman's panic caused the victim to get hit. Finally, when away from danger: SHOW the police, SWAT, SRT where the threats are, if any 💣 or IED is there, if wounded victims are left nearby.
I'm the same way. My brother is retired from police department. So I understand plus I have life experience. When I don't trust my gut i end up regretting it
Great video. THANK YOU !! No matter where you are or what you are doing, SITUATIONAL AWARENESS is always important. No need to be paranoid, just be aware of your surroundings. Be observant. GREAT advice.
Great information. Thanks for your input. I retired last October 01, after 30 years as a cop in Texas. Have been full time rving since. Best decision we have made in years. New subscriber here. I did sell my AR , and kept my pistol and home defense shotgun. Safe travels and love your channel. 👍🏻
Hey Jim, thank you for the comment. So awesome that after years in law enforcement, you are now relaxing and full time RVing - enjoy every minute and thank you for your years of service. Thanks for the support and we're happy to have you here! - MJ
1:50 And facing the door! I have 15 years in my department. It took my wife of 6 years a couple years to realize I NEVER sit with my back to the door. I just can't do it.
I find it hard to date cops... I always want to pick the table & seat where I can view the room from all angles. It’s like playing musical chairs... it’s a fight to be seated. 😳😆🤣😂
I've never been in law enforcement, but I ALWAYS face the door in establishments. then quickly assess where the exits are and decide where the best place to escape or hide is, if possible. It all only takes a minute or 2 for this assessment while I'm sitting or just standing around. I've told my family that when I say, "Hit the floor--now!" or "We gotta get out of here--now!", even if in a serious but very quiet voice, that I'M NOT KIDDING and DON'T QUESTION ME, but JUST DO IT.
We were traveling and decided to stop at a rest area in the middle of nowhere. I started to get out of the car. But he stayed sitting. I said aren't you getting out? He said no. Then I looked up at what he was looking at, two men who had been "talking" to a couple that were sitting in their car, and the two men were looking at us. Suddenly the car sped away, real fast. The two men walked over to the restrooms, one stood by the ladies and one by the mens. I got that "gut" feeling and got back in the car. That was in 1986 but it still gives me chills to think about it. We didn't see another car anywhere?
Very sound advice. I have a concealed carry permit here in California. This would be a last resort defense. Pepper spray is my first. Unfortunately, my 90 lb. dog would be on their side for a cookie. Great video.
Couldn’t agree with you more. I believe the most important point is think things all the way through. And please don’t let having a firearm or other protection give you false sense of security if you wouldn’t allow yourself to be in a particular situation without “protection” don’t allow yourself to be in that same situation with “protection”. I do carry a firearm and am a retired Army Counter Intelligence Special Agent.
Nothing in this world is safe, but there are things you can to do to increase your safety, and take things into your own hands. Great video highlighting some essential points!
Skip Jersey... even the Jersey shore in season is a pain in the arse. Too many people. Too much traffic. Trust me. I used to fly for I ❤️ Radio and give traffic reports. They rarely use blinkers, but love their cell phones. Everybody is up in your business. Best thing I ever did was leave this state. I won’t be returning for anything, even funerals. I’ll send a nice card. 😳
Good Advice .As a Pa resident that carries .Going down the shore requires The car check for ammo. Firearms never go to NJ. I just put myself on the Higher alert status.
Pet peeve : very bright motion sensor security lights placed outside the RV so that every dang squirrel sets them off and your rig is parked so that your bedroom gets the strobe effect all night long.
Ring is all fine but remeber it also can be used agains you. So buying a style one would use well you travel with a built in storage is a much bettervrought to go.
Recently purchased a pepperball flashlight. Shoots pepperball 60 ft with a laser to aim, and looks like and is a flashlight. Great for walking at night....and if that doesn't work....well then things get serious.
I am former USCG Port Security i.e. armed federal officer. Your insights are spot on. Be aware of your surroundings and be able to describe them. Do not do things to draw attention to yourself - gray man stealth is typically best. Also, and this is your personal choice... be armed. But get trained and know how to use your firearm and the know the legal provisions required in the jurisdiction in which you are traveling. And if you are not or do not want to be proficient with a firearm, then don't carry one. A good sized canister of bear spray is useful in many situations.
I concur with everything you said. Even though I have a CCW permit, I feel an alternative to firearms inside a dwelling or RV is aerosol wasp & hornet spray.
I worked in a building all by myself. We were not allowed to have a firearm on the premises. I kept a can of wasp spray on my desk. I have to say it made me feel like I could defend myself. If hey got past the door to my office I would have been trapped. I knew if I got someone in the face with that stuff I had a good chance of getting away. Thank you for the reminder. A can of wasp spray will go onto our packing list for in the rig. I will also order the pepper spray for us to have one each when outside of the rig.
@@juliegibson912 Almost anything that sprays, like spray paint, carb cleaner, Brakleen brake cleaner etc., will irritate the eyes. Plus the paint will blind them.
Travelling alone, I have a daily check in time with a friend. If I have cell coverage, great. If not, I use a Spotx that has satellite coverage. I keep that Spotx on me as it also has an SOS function. As to more immediate needs, I agree with the presenters in the video.
Hey guys. Really excellent video. Izzy, you really hit on a lot of things I was raised with. When dad was on the bench he “engrained” in us awareness and trusting our gut. To this day I sit at the corner table facing the door and map out routes and exits. I know it sounds like paranoia to most but in your line of work and in my dads also, it’s vital. I also carry. And I hope and pray I never have to use it. It’s amazing the things that can be prevented just by paying attention and being alert. You know, 20 plus yrs ago Dad’s colleagues joked and called him paranoid but he saw what was to come and it’s here. They don’t laugh anymore. It’s dangerous for everyone. Criminals have gotten bolder and citizens less careful. Glad you did this video. You two sharing your experience adds volumes to the channel. Oh, and MJ, I tried to get the lid off the garbage can but realized that it was probably all vegan anyway so I quit trying. 😜. Thanks guys. Troy
007nadineL Hi neighbor. It’s not as bad as it seems- at least growing up. We were very blessed and had a close, loving family. We just learned quickly after Dad was elected judge that a lot of the bad guys wanted to blame anybody else for their actions besides themselves. And when you’re the guy doing the punishing, you catch a lot of threats. Of course today, it’s much worse. No one seems to want to take responsibility for their actions. Seems to be the fact of life- a few bad apples ruin it for everyone else. It’s a shame because what’s shown in the media doesn’t reflect the feelings and opinions of most of the people. We need more of that Canadian kindness here right now. 😉
We use our telescoping Wonder Pole. Fiberglass, 18" extends to about 38". Extended keeps someone at distance, or 3/4" tip directed to abdomen, etc. Blunt end 1 1/4" can be used if necessary to deliver a harder hit to the legs, upper chest, and if necessary the shoulder, etc. Also great for lifting wires, etc.
Great advice in safety. My wife and I also place solar motion sensor led lights in several places on the exterior of our 5th wheel and are great nite lights for safety as well as a deterrent for snooping around.
Thank you for discussing this topic. I am new to the RV family and really appreciate your perspective and knowledge. I also appreciate how you both talk about this in a very straight forward/plain and simple way. We can all apply these techniques to improve our overall safety in our own situations thus improving our safety and security in our communities.
Awesome video. Thanks a lot from Alaska. Up here you can carry concealed or open. It’s nice. I’m considering full timing starting this fall. I think number one was the best, trust your gut/instinct. Two, know your surroundings. Three, watch the body language of people, pay close attention, it speaks louder than words. Four, trust no one, no matter who they are or what they say, make them know that you know. These four things together have saved my butt a few times. Thanks a lot. Excellent information
Great advice for people. Most people tend to not think of the basics they just rely on someone else to save them and most situations especially camping we need to depend on ourselves its part of being self reliant just like having the right right camping gear and food to stay situated for an entire week without having to go into town.
my friend s& w is a double barrel shot gun loaded with bird shot! barrel is shorten to legal length. for everyone situation awareness is critical to your survival.
Yup Agree 100% - we keep eyes up and looking around when we stop. 21 years in Military taught me to always be aware of our surroundings. I always have my exit path identified when inside an establishment. I always check firearm laws in the places we travel. Never go to Jersey. Lol
I've been travelling for almost 50 years, either in a van of some sort or a tractor trailer (31 years over the road), and agree with much of what you've presented. I'd like to add 1)always park so you can jump in the driver's seat (which should be empty, not full of stuff) and leave immediately...which is why I'd never have a 5th wheel, 2)don't park in the back of lots where it is dark...lights can be your friends, 3)put up or pull your window coverings as soon as possible so no one sees you're alone in there (provided you are), 4)at a fuel pump, be it gas or diesel, be prepared to douse anyone who comes near you...fuel in the eyes HURTS, 5)never scream HELP...scream FIRE. Most people will respond more quickly, 6)NEVER, EVER be complacent...always be aware of your surroundings and anyone in them!
Some excellent tips, Kathleen. Thanks for sharing them! - MJ
@ No, I did not! The objective is to distract the potential harm-doer with pain, not burn the place down. I happen to know this works as I have had to do it myself, and no flames were involved. Perhaps you were attempting to be funny, but DO NOT light a match, people!!
@ Thanks! You know how some people take things literally without thinking them through.
Fuel at gas pump sprayed on someone who comes near you?? For starters that's a crime and blinding someone is also a crime. What if they have a cigarette in their hand? Are you going to set everyone on fire including you? Totally bad advice there. The rest is good but the fuel pump advice is not. ps this is NOT a joke :|
@@kathleenkline4622 You're not thinking!! Fumes are ignitable. What if that person had a flame source. You're not thinking this one through at all.
Former Deputy Sheriff in Florida. My wife and I are just getting to enjoy RVing. If there is a security issue I send my wife out, she's Cuban and is vicious!!
Latina!! Thanks for watching and the comment.
Izzy
Send her out to see how bad they are . If they come twords her you are the b back up .
Warrior59 Paul 😂😂😂
🤣🤣🤣
You are so funny I needed a laugh today thanks
Good advice. In Chicago we said, "there's always sharks in the water." Meaning someone is always watching + waiting for an opportunity. Not paranoid, just prepared. Fact of life.
We agree. Thanks for sharing
Recently retired law enforcement but my wife and I still travel with our two bodyguards, Smith and Wesson 😂. GOOD advice and great video.
Love it!! Lol Thank you for your service. 👮 - MJ
🤣🤣🤣
Super advice. Thank you.
Yes me to but different two fellas... Heckler and Koch
@@jeffquillen5560 Jeff Quillen, good choice!
I think the biggest threat and most ignored safety concern in RV's is fire! Keep a couple of metal fire extinguishers in strategic places around your rig. They can also double as a safety device against intruders and bee swarms.
We agree. We have talked about fire safety in other videos. Thanks for watching and the comment
Bee swarms? 😳😆😂🤣
Good thinking. Nobody would want a face-full of that stuff, and there's no way even the freakiest, leftist state can claim you were using a weapon.
Did a ride-a-long with an officer a couple weeks ago….what an eye opener! This guy could multi-task 10 things at a time, and still be aware of his surroundings. I thought I had pretty good awareness, but the officer put it to shame noticing the details I had missed. Hats off to the “Men in Blue!” I thought I lived in a really quiet neighborhood for 25 years, in a three hours, there were shots fired into an apartment and drug deals going down a block from the house. He said it was common in the area, just not on our street. They don’t pay enough to put your life on the line every day!
Great points. One I think you glossed over was the issue of leaving things exposed that you think are worthless. Crimes of opportunity are not planned. Your lawn chair becomes a tool to break a window. Your folding table becomes a ladder to gain access. Your kids toy shovel becomes a pry tool to open a door or compartment. You get the idea. Best bet is to secure or put away everything. Years ago i had a station wagon. (no trunk). They broke in and stole my stuff including a ratty old blanket. When I asked the police officer why did they waste time stealing that he said. "that's how they carried your stuff away"
Yes Fred all good points. Like we said in the video, the best security is not to leave anything out. It’s a balancing act of how much security you want vs how much freedom you want lol. Like Covid. The easiest way to stop the spread is lock everything down, but there are serious implications with that also as we have seen in some areas. Thanks for watching and the comment.
Izzy
@@EndlessRVing Not to argue with your COVID example but locking yourself away only "slows it down" not stop it. Everyone will be exposed to it. Some will get the virus and fall seriously ill and may die from it if their immune system is compromised. Others will have mild symptoms and easily recover and yet, others won't be affected by it at all. "Slow the Spread" doesn't mean "Eliminate the Virus spread" like it's being reported on the news. It's here to stay and we have to learn to live with it just like we do the flu or common cold.
Marie Evans 100% agree. Thanks for sharing.
Izzy
Marie Evans Are you a doctor, nurse or epidemiologist?
@@EndlessRVing
And that includes your animals.
A friend, also retired law enforcement, told us to never automatically open our door if someone pounds on our door and claims to me law enforcement. Have them put their badge to a window so we can Verify.
That’s good information. Thanks for sharing.
Call 911 and have them verify or send out another cop (preferably the Supervisor) before you open the door. Keep repeating that you are waiting for verification for your safety.
Besides cops don't ask you to get outta the car as a routine course of action anyway. At least I don't think so.
@@mangafq8 They do unfortunately more often than not if you are a person of color.
I am a retired law enforcement officer, 33 years in patrol and investigations. I agree 100% with everything you said, we are fulltime and think more people who rv should be safety minded.
Last month, traveling through New Mexico we stopped to walk our dogs at a casino complex. The casino was closed but the gas station wasn’t. It was also daylight. While I had my dog a few hundred yards from our vehicle, my husband was on the blind side. In pulls a car with dark tinted windows, it sweeps around open gas pumps to pull in front of my direction of travel. My lizard brain kicked in, I old lady hot footed to my vehicle, yelling at my husband to “get the bag”, the occupants of the car followed me. Mind you, we are the only people outside and the store entrance is a ways away in the opposite direction. Fortunately, I was able to get my vehicle before they got to me. Soon as they came around my auto and saw my honey and me with “my little friend”, they turned into Wally of Leave it to Beaver. Gee, that’s a nice dog you have Mrs. I was gonna rob you. Point to this story? Night or day be aware and prepared.
Thanks for sharing the story. No one expects to become a victim and sometimes we can take some simple steps to reduce those chances. Glad you were safe.
Izzy
Been there - at a rest stop and this guy is over a lane filling his tank. I got out Iggy (125 LB black lab mix) along with our terrier hound mix to walk them. Iggy who is usually a softy kept staring at the guy growling. We high tailed it out of there.
Well written if i gamble i do it online. i can see you are just like me very causious as the ones was first blocking your escape path.never been to mexico but if i so visit i won t stop at a casino.
Jack Smith she was in New Mexico.
@@kimsargeant8126 ok
My concealed carry instructor stressed over and over that the last thing you want to do is shoot someone. He said to do everything possible to avoid this. Good advice.
Any good instructor will tell you the same because they understand the aftermath. Thanks for watching and the comment
Izzy
You don't even want to "pull it" if at all possible...If your in the RV at the door, The wasp spray or carburetor cleaner will do the job at 20 Ft.
@@starwoodstudios1, you are a man and judging from your picture a tall man, however, I'm a woman and a gun is my best friend. There is no way I would allow a man to advance on me without pulling my weapon. Robbers rarely stalk alone they come in pairs or threesomes. Most criminals would rather teach you a lesson than rob you once you have challenge them and not wound them. They figure you don't have a weapon so they go back to get something bigger and return or lie in wait for you. A woman can't afford this tactic she must be willing and able to strike and move while he's at a distance.
@@evamaria644 Yes, you are absolutely right about that. Women should carry and not hesitate.
Marie Evans My friend trained me and provided me with a small lady Ruger that will definitely stop someone, which makes me feel better.
I am a retired teacher and always kept a can of hornet/wasp spray in my classroom...accurate up to 30 feet...in case of a classroom intruder. I am told (never had to try it) that it is very painful and works well. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for sharing.
Izzy
mike manjo Don’t you have to shake those for a minute before you can use them?
@ mike manjo is there a brand you recommend? Thanks
Also works on rattlesnakes! It stunned one that was in front of my door-- made it fall off of the steps and go away.
My father made me keep a can by me in the front seat the day I began driving well over 20+ years ago. Not a handgun but will give you time to drive away and stop someone trying to grab you
Another safety tip: If you have a tow vehicle or truck for your fifth wheel, park it straight into your rig with headlights facing you. If you hear something outside press the panic button on your key fob and the alarm will sound and lights will come on and most likely scare someone off, possibly completely out of your campground.
Denise Carter excellent tip. Thank you for sharing! - MJ
i heard what i thought was a sensible comment on another rv channel that you always want your pickup truck facing out in case you had a drastic situation where you and your family had to quickly jump in the truck get away to safety pronto. if the situation was that drastic, then yeah you'd be leaving your rig, but you'd live to tell about it. Put a motion-sensor light near the front of the 5th wheel if you need to light up that space. you can still push the panic alarm on your truck key fob to light up the night :)
Having your get-away vehicle pointed inward is a terrible tactical idea. Thats what outdoor lights are for - if you want to light-up your camper.
Why point the headlights facing you? Wouldn't you want the lights facing out towards them?
@@tinaperez9756 they're saying that if you heard someone right outside your camper then the headlights would light them up.
Thanks for the no-nonsense talk about weapons. As a civilian firearms instructor, I concur 100%.
Thank you for watching and the comment.
Izzy
I live full time in my rv. I have solar powered lights installed on all 4 sides of my rv. They are motion sensors. Anyone comes close the lights light up. The best one I've found is at Walmart. Roof mounted, two light panels and can be easily removed when towing. It's 30 bucks.
Awesome idea. Thank you for sharing! - MJ
What is the brand??
@@llfreeman100 it's Walmart's brand. I believe it's called Hypertech.
Thanks so much for this info.
Very good advice.
Another " game" i have started with my son is, i tell him to always pay attention to people and i told him what to look for as far as people carrying concealed weapons. The "game" is, if he can spot it (a person with a firearm, concealed or not and knife etc.. concealed or not) before i do i will give him a $1. (Lol he is fairly young so a $1 still makes him excited 🤫).
It's my way of getting him looking around for that kind of thing. I also told him once he spots it, to just privately and calmly tell me.
Not only is it teaching him to pay attention but it helps me too by giving me another set of eyes.
Cool game. If you can spot someone carrying concealed they are not doing a good job lol. Thanks for watching and the comment.
Izzy
@@EndlessRVing Thanks and true, but sometimes even the best still show signs that they are carrying. Some people will touch in one way or another as they get in or out of a car out of habit, walk different, you can see it when they reach for something on a shelf, don't wear the right clothes or holster so you can see the bulge of the gun and as you know, the list goes on. And of course the worst way to carry IMO open carry.
Johnny Turbo I agree open carry is not very smart. thanks for the feedback.
Izzy
What a great idea! Well done!
@@monicawilson896 🤘😁👍🇺🇸
Up date: it has really been working, he is spotting them faster and faster, while still being calm to tell me about it.
Thank you for your service in law enforcement. I love all of you!
Thank you
Izzy
Cops are under attack these days.
It's refreshing to see unadulterated, unfiltered, straight and honest presentation of facts. First time I've seen any of your videos but now I am a subscriber.
Glad you enjoy. Thanks so much and we're happy to have you here Arthur! - MJ
Great advise!
Good advice. I am Retired State Trooper 35 years on the job. Your advice is solid and sure to help people. Stay well and happy.
Thanks so much. Stay safe. - MJ
Motion detector lights and cameras w/alarms.
Thanks for sharing.
Izzy
I grew up in Chicago. Everything is locked ALL THE TIME.
👍
I'm sorry, Tommy. When you get out of prison please contact again.
As a solo woman full time RV'er If I'm at a truck stop or somewhere that seems shady I will use a rubber bungee cord on the inside of my RV to keep the door secure. I also have a pair of man's boots to set outside by the door. My 3 cats are very good also at alerting me to noises I may not hear.
Thanks for sharing.
Izzy
Great ideas! Stay safe out there. 💪 - MJ
Maybe a big dog bowl by the boots...
As a retired solo female truck driver, may I suggest adding a bell or two to that bungee cord? The bungee can be stretched and cut...the bell will alert you to this in time to get your "protection" in hand.
Thanks for sharing. I'm a single woman just getting organized to set out RVing by myself, and I'm very interested in common sense approach to safety and security so thanks!
Thanks for letting us know these things! I knew of a couple, that were boom docking and in the night, they had a truck pull up to the front of their camper, rattled their hitch lock, they seen the truck through their camera, thankfully, they had a hitch- lock on their camper. They didn't know, who they were. Her husband, told them, whoever you are, I see you in my camera. You need to leave. He got his gun and went out there and no one there... They got up, early the next morning and seen the hood of a truck, in the woods, partially hidden. They left immediately. Scary!
Thanks for sharing
Izzy
This was a great video and a necessary video. I take all the precautions you do and as a single, 59 year old woman who RV’s alone, it makes me feel much more secure. I therefore have a much better and relaxing time. There shouldn’t even be a controversy over firearms. Let me explain …… if you own a firearm you should know how to use it, safely. You should know everything about it, like taking it apart, cleaning it, loading it, etc. You should have gone through a gun safety course and taken lessons on how to correctly load, use and store the weapon(s). If you choose to conceal carry, get that concealed carry permit!! If you don’t do those things; don’t own a firearm. That’s my two cents. 🤣😂
You’re absolutely right and good for you for taking all the precautions. Thanks so much for watching Lori. Stay safe out there! - MJ
Lori W I would also add that you must practice every week.
@Lori W I agree completely. This is what the "Let's give up our guns" ppl need to understand and the idiots who own guns should know. Also, BAD PEOPLE WILL NEVER GIVE UP THEIR GUNS. Duh.
My aunt and uncle were sleeping in their RV at night when my uncle woke up and heard a couple of young men around their RV up to no good. He quietly slid open a window and then loaded his shoot gun. Just the noise of him loading the gun was enough to scare them away.
Instead of confronting them he scared them away while staying safe inside the RV.
Thanks for sharing Bob
Izzy
Lol I always say the 2nd scariest thing ever is the sound of a pump shotgun racking a shell into the chamber. The number 1 scariest thing ever is that shotgun sound followed by a tiny female voice saying “I’ve got a shotgun!” Lol
Yep, an awesome sound loading a shotgun!! Lol
Thanks so much for sharing your tips for protecting yourself on the road. They make good sense. Years ago I worked in a detective bureau in Illinois and my eyes were opened to the various threats that exist all around us. My most valuable lesson learned was always pay attention to your surroundings and know the people you are with. Criminals come in two types, the successful ones who achieve their goal and the unsuccessful ones who either give up or get caught. The most successful criminals are the ones you don’t see coming…the ones you would never suspect. So keep your eyes open and know what to do in a difficult situation.
i am 70 and not the best health. I am thinking as I get healthier and lose weight I am seriously thinking about van or small RV after my 93 y/o mom is dancing with Jesus. I appreciate you. You are the first I have watched who appear to be willing to give a balance of things to consider.
Never too late to enjoy life Dianna. Thanks so much for the kind words. :) - MJ
Take care, get a little more healthy, and get out there. I'm 71 and the "wind in the hair" feeling of heading out in a mini RV is rejuvenating. God Bless ya
Such excellent info and potentially life saving! I grew up in a city and I ALWAYS lock the doors, home car etc. It's ingrained in me. I think I avoided a mugging one night when a young man started shadowing me and my husband. I stopped in my tracks and he stopped too. I did an about face and started walking the other direction. My hubby didnt understand why I yanked him backwards (especially cuz he had a few drinks). The guy kept walking forward because it was a busy street. My feeling was he was going to tail us till we walked down a side street and then attack. I just had a really bad feeling. I am always super aware, borderline paranoid some would say.
You followed your gut and that is so important. Stay safe! - MJ
@@EndlessRVing thanks, you too!
No. Being paranoid and being careful are two different things. You should always be careful and to hell with anyone who says otherwise.
I get frightened when I see so many young people (especially females) walking along wearing headphones. They are blocking one of their ways of self protection - to hear what's going on around them.
We agree thanks for watching.
Izzy
Exactly! Its down right asking for trouble
My kids do it😭- I know they are in their twenties, but it absolutely makes you vulnerably to attacks are ANY AGE. Working on them using just one and at a low volume🕊
I think you'll find that most are not listening to any music, often its a way to avoid having someone try to talk to you or you can pretend not to hear them without appearing rude.
I had 1 clueless gen Z guy; 18 to 25 drift straight into my 2005 Ford Crown Vic sedan as I drove past. He looked up and was 😳 when I honked.
SItuational awareness is the single most important skill to stay safe. Like you said trust your gut and be aware. I'm 73 and learned this when I was 19. I spent 25 yrs in countless unarmed fighting forms. I also spent 20+ yrs in combat shooting comps. With all that I am proud to say I have never had the need to use any one of these due to my first learning to be and stay aware.
There is an old saying I've heard all my life from very wise family members. When seconds counts the police officers (by no fault of their own) are always minutes away. A word to the common sense crowd is sufficient. Smith & Wesson appears to be very popular names for traveling companions. Be smart and safe.
I agree. Don’t rely on police to save your life. That would be your responsibility. Thanks for watching and the comment
Sometimes hours away
Great video, thanks!
Regarding tip #6, the RV locks: I'm a retired locksmith and if you go to a full service locksmith shop, you can easily have all of the locks in your rig re-keyed. That method is quite cost effective.
Many of those shops may even have parking spaces that they might be willing to keep open for you if you've arranged an appointment. Having said that; if you need to have a shop schedule a service call for you, it's well worth the cost, if you think of it as some added insurance for your rig. (Tip; if you schedule a service call in advance and on a weekday, some shops are willing to charge less than they would on a weekend or in the middle of the night.)
Thanks for the tip
We have had a resent run at Adventureland Park Campground of breakins, vandalism, and things getting stolen especially bikes. Great video and good timing!
Bikes are a very hot ticket right now. Thanks for watching and the comment.
Izzy
I use to be a thief, n i traveled a lot, but didn't steal from two many campers, the worst thing i stole from a camper was a really good fishing pole, but not to sale but to use cause i was living in a tent n wanted to catch some salmon
But once i thought about stealing a bike from these two bikers on a long trip n had their camp gear on it, but they came up the trail just in time when i was close to them n checking them out
People thieves can strike at anytime n might not of at that time but they saw a really good opportunity to steal easier n took it, also thieves have working thieving demons, the demons can set it up n let you know some things n the crime goes better cause of this, this is what they did with me, i use to get visions of crimes before doing them, they had it all planned out good usually, also at times they just took control of me a lot n did it rather i knew what was going on or not, there were times they possessed me to steal when i didnt want to
There were times they had people lose credit or bank cards n let me find them, or people lost them n when me n my thieving demons came they let me find them, one time they had a guy throw his by me n he was wondering what was going on n he picked it back up
So people be aware human being thieves n their demons thieves can strike at anytime anywhere, they can pop up out in the middle of no where at times
The “Light Ranger” is the best purchase I’ve made. It’s by Devos. It gives 360 light coverage, and it telescopes to 9 feet. If you buy the filters, you can have a yellow or orange glow over most of the campsite…and it doesn’t attract bugs.
Retired LEO here. Great video and I really appreciate the thoughtful way you addressed firearms.
Thanks for the kind words and supporting the channel.
Izzy
Good video..Doesn’t sound crazy to me…but with a husband in law enforcement for 20 years, I get it. Great tips! Peace and Blessings
😊
Yes I agree with all you are saying, I'm a retired military with twenty-eight years in the Army and I have seen a lot of things. I did replace all of my locks with RVLOCKS my last defense is that I do carry but I will just leave if we can, I'm always looking around to see what's going on around me. I also have a 1st degree black belt but I have been out of that for a while now but feel that I can defend myself against the average guy. This is a crazy world we live in but I do select where we stay carefully, it's just my wife and I and we are seniors citizens who love God. All and all Christ protects us and we don't worry but we are very careful great video. I do need to get some pepper spray those just in case.
Yes, stay safe out there. :) - MJ
Many times women will get a ‘gut feeling’ about a situation or a person and maybe that odd feeling in the hair on the back of their neck. I was always taught that it is Mother Nature, or your primal instincts for self defense, talking to you. Never ignore those feelings. If you do, it may be the last time you feel anything.
I told my hs students
If you wonder if...
The answer is yes
Get out of the situation immediately
Trust your gut
Great information! I have been traveling in my 1994 Winnebago Warrior class A full time for a little over 2 years filming. I have left several times when it just didn't feel right. I never open my door when someone knocks on my door. I talk through the window even if they say they are security or the police. Thank you for the information.
Thanks for sharing and stay safe.
Izzy
I plan on carrying this all the time. You can buy small cans of Hair spray,you know the Travel stuff. Also a loud blow Horn. Love your Channel.😊
Being aware of your surroundings first and foremost in ANY situation will keep you ahead of the game safety wise. Before RVing, we stopped at a hotel for the night. When we found our first floor room windows screwed shut, we got our money back and left that place and stayed 50 more miles down the road. Excellent video, guys.
Good for you for following your gut. Everyone needs to do that. Thanks as always for watching Gina. 👍 - MJ
This is real talk. Driving semis trucks for 14 years. You give realistic points.
I always make sure I face the door and my back to the wall as much as possible!
Good idea. Thanks for watching.
Izzy
After hearing you guys I don't feel like I'm paranoid. Have always avoided areas when I get that creepy feeling Thank you.
Yep always go with the gut! Thanks for watching Frank. - MJ
I would add sound to your list. I carry a small airhorn that makes as much noise as a big one. My daughter carrys a key fob alarm that is also loud and very compact.
Thank you for your service. Hubby just retired from LE. Great video Thank you!
Congrats
Thank you. Good advice, even when you are just driving your car and you just pull into a rest stop. I try to stay aware and act like I know what I am doing. A few years ago, I was traveling more and the hair on my neck stood up a couple of times.
Hi Lee glad you liked the video, thanks for watching.
Izzy
I haven’t finished watching… please forgive me if I spoke too soon… many new vehicles come with auto start. If the key FOB is present, you can unlock and start your vehicle with the push of a button. Vehicles come with two FOB’s - DO NOT LEAVE ONE IN THE VEHICLE WITH THE BATTERIES IN IT‼️ Many don’t realize that just like cars, if you leave and also leave say the spare key FOB in the glove box… anyone can walk up, unlock it, enter, and drive off.
Great tips! My husband is a retired LEO. He spliced the 30 amp cable on our Sprinter Class C so that the surge protector is protected (from weather and those up to no good) inside a locked storage bay. We plan to do the same on our next motorhome as well. We're trying to sell our current RV so we can buy a small Class A.
Izzy, thank you for your service! 🖤💙🖤
Besides locking the doors when we leave, we have the best security system for our rv, two dogs, inside.
Thanks for watching
Izzy
As a visually impaired person I always have an ear on things
Thanks for watching and stay safe
Izzy
I sleep in my SUV because I don’t feel safe in a tent camping alone without my dogs.
Do what you have to do to feel safe- that's important! - MJ
I have a pit bull and me or my wife can walk even before daylight as long as we take her believe me nobody can come close without us knowing she’s very protective
Thanks for sharing Jerry
Izzy
Dog is a deterrent to lightweight criminals. Heavyweight criminal will take the dog out PDQ.
Dog is best considered only as an alarm.
She’s not just a dog her name is molly and she’s my best friend I am there to take care of the so called heavyweights
@@jerrymock9211 When a threat like a child is out to get the newspaper or whatever and Molly the Pitbull has "perceived" a threat, YOU ARE NOT STRONG ENOUGH TO STOP HER. That is the reality. Look up the facts, if you really want to know them. Most Pitbull owners DON'T want to know the truth, but only decide to blame the owners. They all say the same 2 things: "My dog would NEVER attack anyone.", or "There is no such thing as a bad dog, only bad owners." Tell that to all the maimed and dead babies, children, adults, elderly adults and all the pets maimed or dead in the neighborhood. Go ahead. Do your due diligence.
Lori Elizabeth Wade you are 1000% CORRECT!!! Thank you for telling it like it is. They have the very real POTENTIAL to be VERY dangerous animals. Saying their dog wouldn’t hurt a flea is like saying one’s Golden Retriever would NEVER fetch something and bring it to you. It’s all about purpose-bred dogs. That’s all I’m going to say on the matter lest my heart has palpitations. Very sore subject for me.
Thank you Izzy and MJ for the great video. I am also from a law enforcement background, and can't stress enough the importance of knowing your surroundings. We are cooped up at home right now after my stroke, but I can't wait to go back out there.
Thanks for watching Mike and speedy recovery.
Izzy
32 yr LEO vet from Canada. You provided some excellent advise. Especially for civilians who have never encountered these situations or are not familiar with any type of defensive weapons.
Please keep up the good work.
A brother from Canaba.
Thank you Chuck. Stay safe.
Izzy
My husband always preaches that to me and it’s saved me several times.
That’s good. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Listen to hubby! Lol Stay safe out there Susan. - MJ
I have motion detector lights around my rig. If I'm in a place that has "that feeling" but I'm too tired to try to go somewhere else until I get sleep, I set up driveway alarms. I'll rig cans and noisemakers on fishing string- that deters a lot of would-be intruders.
Thanks for sharing Tina
Izzy
December of 2017 we were getting our fifthwheel ready to go South to Gulf Shores. The trailer was stored on a couple of lots in a residential area about a mile from where we live. When I walked up to the trailer I saw the door ajar and found that someone had taken a flat bar and forced entry. They stole the tv's and a couple small items. Damage to the door was over $1000. I found out the door can be forced open in a couple of minutes on trailers. I put a led dusk to dawn, motion sensor porch light on and added a way to have a security chain on the inside of the door to prevent entry while we were inside. I was already using a commercial pin lock for semi trailers. I'm sure glad they didn't pry open the storage bay doors, there was an 8 drawer tool box filled with tools.
Yes the doors are really easy to open if people want it. Thanks for sharing
Izzy
...I got mugged once. It was at bus station in Philly. I was doing my business at bathroom and someone told me to give him my money. I said to him just wait a bit cuz I’m make water. Got business done, turned around, a little guy with a little knife with scared look was there... i pushed him then he fell and rolled back, I walked out of bathroom without washing hands. Good ol’days.
Glad your safe.
Izzy
@@EndlessRVing
Yes lol thank you, I was in a college back then, meaning I wasn’t thinking at all 😂
Excellent advice on firearms, particularly the admonition regarding the need for training! Owning a gun does not make you armed any more than owning a violin makes you a musician!
We agree. Thanks for watching Al
Izzy
As a 4th degree black belt I would also suggest some self defense training because hand to hand could happen
Thanks for watching and the comment
All three of you are some of the best public speakers I've seen. Very professional. Good job.
How sweet of you. Jason loved this comment. 😀 Thanks so much! - MJ
Excellent video - We are from Canada and often wonder how safe are we, in the US given the fact that our Canadian license plates would tell anyone, 'we can't fire back' because tourists not allowed to buy/carry/use guns in the US. I do like the bear spray option though and have bought some while travelling in the Pacific Northwest. I totally agree about 'be aware of your surroundings at all times'. I used to work for welfare and like you, I look around and know where the exit is! Again, thank you.
Thanks for watching and the comment Kathleen
Izzy
Love the pepper spray (pom) but the only time I went harder was Williams Az. Ratty van pulled in behind us at about 3am. Turned on the outside light and opened the door with the barrel of my shotgun. Their "car trouble" seemed to self repair as they left in less than a minute. Much like my base ball bat, which comes with a ball and dog leash, I try to have some bird shot and hunting literature near by. (ask your attorney ) My home gun has a cartridge belt with a loop for the pepper spray. love the channel. Keep it up
Wow. I never stay in RV parks, but boondock exclusively. That takes care of the vast majority of security concerns. I can't imagine enjoying RVing if I felt the need for multiple security cameras, locks, special safety procedures, etc. I'd rather just get away from any potential thieves altogether by staying away from the crowds.
Just an FYI crimes happen in every neighborhood, big or small. If people are near or have the potential to be near the potential for crimes exist. Thanks for watching.
Izzy
@@EndlessRVing Hi Izzy, I often don't even have a neighbour in sight when I am on BLM land in the southwest US. If there is another RV in the distance, if they were to approach my RV, myself or my dog would see them coming from a long ways away. If nobody is ever near your RV, it is hard for them to steal anything from it.
Husband and I will be doing alot of RV traveling soon. Won't be going without my .38 & .357, hollow points included.
Thanks for sharing.
Izzy
If I'm in a camp around other RV, I use snake shot. It is devastating at close range .I do not have to worry about over penetration. Unintentionally hurting someone in a nearby RV is less.
The humble .38 is the best personal defense firearm in America.
Love the video and it just reinforces a lot of the things I have thought about or done over the years. I am a veteran and worked in law enforcement for awhile so have had firearms training, but still understand that we have to be aware of the state(s) we are traveling in (been RV’ing since 1973) because of the different state laws. Keep up the great videos as they are appreciated and will help those who are new or fairly new to RV’ing have a better idea of what they need to learn and/or be aware of.
Thanks for watching and the comment.
Izzy
My husband was a deputy sheriff and always sat looking towards a door Never with his back facing a door...all your suggestions were great for sharing safety...Also this is is important watch your children just because you're in a campground doesn't make it a safe environment...it's a perfect place for Pedophiles to be in contact with children. So keep watch or at least know where they will be.
Thanks for watching Joyce
Izzy
Many go by the City of Houston, DHS Run Hide Fight. I say; Know Go Show! Know where the doors, exits, security 👮🏻♂️, CCTV 📹 are. Be ready or able to flee if available. Run too, do NOT stop to aid 👴🏽👵🏻. I saw a recent spree shooting incident: retail location. A victim was shot 💥 because she was trying to get a terrified older lady out of the way. The woman's panic caused the victim to get hit. Finally, when away from danger: SHOW the police, SWAT, SRT where the threats are, if any 💣 or IED is there, if wounded victims are left nearby.
I'm the same way. My brother is retired from police department. So I understand plus I have life experience. When I don't trust my gut i end up regretting it
Yes, the gut is a powerful tool that should be listened to. Thanks. 👍 - MJ
Great video. THANK YOU !! No matter where you are or what you are doing, SITUATIONAL AWARENESS is always important.
No need to be paranoid, just be aware of your surroundings. Be observant. GREAT advice.
Absolutely!
It's always smart to be aware of your surroundings.
Yes, definitely! Thanks for watching. - MJ
Great information. Thanks for your input. I retired last October 01, after 30 years as a cop in Texas. Have been full time rving since. Best decision we have made in years. New subscriber here. I did sell my AR , and kept my pistol and home defense shotgun. Safe travels and love your channel. 👍🏻
Hey Jim, thank you for the comment. So awesome that after years in law enforcement, you are now relaxing and full time RVing - enjoy every minute and thank you for your years of service. Thanks for the support and we're happy to have you here! - MJ
Thieves are smart too, none will rob a former cop. Thanks for the vid.
Thanks for watching.
Izzy
1:50 And facing the door! I have 15 years in my department. It took my wife of 6 years a couple years to realize I NEVER sit with my back to the door. I just can't do it.
Thanks for watching and the comment
Izzy
My father drilled that into me in my youth that still is my ingrained habit to this day
I find it hard to date cops... I always want to pick the table & seat where I can view the room from all angles. It’s like playing musical chairs... it’s a fight to be seated. 😳😆🤣😂
@@debcunningham2092 LOL thanks for sharing
I've never been in law enforcement, but I ALWAYS face the door in establishments. then quickly assess where the exits are and decide where the best place to escape or hide is, if possible. It all only takes a minute or 2 for this assessment while I'm sitting or just standing around. I've told my family that when I say, "Hit the floor--now!" or "We gotta get out of here--now!", even if in a serious but very quiet voice, that I'M NOT KIDDING and DON'T QUESTION ME, but JUST DO IT.
We were traveling and decided to stop at a rest area in the middle of nowhere. I started to get out of the car. But he stayed sitting. I said aren't you getting out? He said no. Then I looked up at what he was looking at, two men who had been "talking" to a couple that were sitting in their car, and the two men were looking at us. Suddenly the car sped away, real fast. The two men walked over to the restrooms, one stood by the ladies and one by the mens. I got that "gut" feeling and got back in the car. That was in 1986 but it still gives me chills to think about it. We didn't see another car anywhere?
Always trust your gut. Glad your safe and thanks for sharing.
Izzy
Very sound advice. I have a concealed carry permit here in California. This would be a last resort defense. Pepper spray is my first. Unfortunately, my 90 lb. dog would be on their side for a cookie. Great video.
Yep, some dogs are just not good guard dogs. LOL Glad you're keeping yourself safe. 👍 - MJ
Ha !
I’m recently retired Sheriff deputy,and we carry all the time , It’s how we were trained by our department.
Same here brother. Congrats on your retirement. My sentence is served Aug 2025 (but who is counting)
Izzy
Pepper spray and tazers are illegal here in Canada. However, dobermans are not. 😉 Thanks for the great informative video.
LOL Thanks Michelle - MJ
Couldn’t agree with you more. I believe the most important point is think things all the way through. And please don’t let having a firearm or other protection give you false sense of security if you wouldn’t allow yourself to be in a particular situation without “protection” don’t allow yourself to be in that same situation with “protection”. I do carry a firearm and am a retired Army Counter Intelligence Special Agent.
Could not agree more. Stay out of places that are not safe, but be ready to do whatever it takes to stay safe.
Thanks for your service.
Izzy
Thanks for the tips, as a woman who does a lot of things alone I am ALWAYS hypervigilant of my surroundings and who is around me doing what.
Nothing in this world is safe, but there are things you can to do to increase your safety, and take things into your own hands. Great video highlighting some essential points!
Very true. Thanks for watching and the comment.
Izzy
Good video validating my decision to never enter New Jersey.
Not missing much here unless you like crowds and high prices.
Izzy
I'll second that stay out of NJ I only go back because of family
lol, Hysterical!!
Skip Jersey... even the Jersey shore in season is a pain in the arse. Too many people. Too much traffic. Trust me. I used to fly for I ❤️ Radio and give traffic reports. They rarely use blinkers, but love their cell phones. Everybody is up in your business. Best thing I ever did was leave this state. I won’t be returning for anything, even funerals. I’ll send a nice card. 😳
Avoid Massachusetts totally, too.
Good Advice .As a Pa resident that carries .Going down the shore requires The car check for ammo. Firearms never go to NJ. I just put myself on the Higher alert status.
Probably a good idea. Thanks for sharing.
Izzy
Pet peeve : very bright motion sensor security lights placed outside the RV so that every dang squirrel sets them off and your rig is parked so that your bedroom gets the strobe effect all night long.
Fortunately we have day an night shard so outside light is never an issue. Thanks for sharing.
Izzy
Ring is all fine but remeber it also can be used agains you. So buying a style one would use well you travel with a built in storage is a much bettervrought to go.
Recently purchased a pepperball flashlight. Shoots pepperball 60 ft with a laser to aim, and looks like and is a flashlight. Great for walking at night....and if that doesn't work....well then things get serious.
Robert Moore wow sound fierce. Thanks for sharing.
Izzy
Always have the flashlight to hit them with.
Is it the pepperball flashlight Lifelite? I got one and it’s pretty wicked, I like the laser to aim, and it kind of looks like a Maglight.
I am former USCG Port Security i.e. armed federal officer. Your insights are spot on. Be aware of your surroundings and be able to describe them. Do not do things to draw attention to yourself - gray man stealth is typically best. Also, and this is your personal choice... be armed. But get trained and know how to use your firearm and the know the legal provisions required in the jurisdiction in which you are traveling. And if you are not or do not want to be proficient with a firearm, then don't carry one. A good sized canister of bear spray is useful in many situations.
I concur with everything you said. Even though I have a CCW permit, I feel an alternative to firearms inside a dwelling or RV is aerosol wasp & hornet spray.
Thanks for sharing.
Izzy
I worked in a building all by myself. We were not allowed to have a firearm on the premises. I kept a can of wasp spray on my desk. I have to say it made me feel like I could defend myself. If hey got past the door to my office I would have been trapped. I knew if I got someone in the face with that stuff I had a good chance of getting away. Thank you for the reminder. A can of wasp spray will go onto our packing list for in the rig. I will also order the pepper spray for us to have one each when outside of the rig.
@@juliegibson912 Almost anything that sprays, like spray paint, carb cleaner, Brakleen brake cleaner etc., will irritate the eyes. Plus the paint will blind them.
Travelling alone, I have a daily check in time with a friend. If I have cell coverage, great. If not, I use a Spotx that has satellite coverage. I keep that Spotx on me as it also has an SOS function. As to more immediate needs, I agree with the presenters in the video.
Hey guys. Really excellent video. Izzy, you really hit on a lot of things I was raised with. When dad was on the bench he “engrained” in us awareness and trusting our gut. To this day I sit at the corner table facing the door and map out routes and exits. I know it sounds like paranoia to most but in your line of work and in my dads also, it’s vital. I also carry. And I hope and pray I never have to use it. It’s amazing the things that can be prevented just by paying attention and being alert. You know, 20 plus yrs ago Dad’s colleagues joked and called him paranoid but he saw what was to come and it’s here. They don’t laugh anymore. It’s dangerous for everyone. Criminals have gotten bolder and citizens less careful. Glad you did this video. You two sharing your experience adds volumes to the channel. Oh, and MJ, I tried to get the lid off the garbage can but realized that it was probably all vegan anyway so I quit trying. 😜. Thanks guys. Troy
All true Troy. Thanks for checking us out and Vegan is not so bad lol.
Izzy
What a way to live....
Hi from canada
007nadineL Hi neighbor. It’s not as bad as it seems- at least growing up. We were very blessed and had a close, loving family. We just learned quickly after Dad was elected judge that a lot of the bad guys wanted to blame anybody else for their actions besides themselves. And when you’re the guy doing the punishing, you catch a lot of threats. Of course today, it’s much worse. No one seems to want to take responsibility for their actions. Seems to be the fact of life- a few bad apples ruin it for everyone else. It’s a shame because what’s shown in the media doesn’t reflect the feelings and opinions of most of the people. We need more of that Canadian kindness here right now. 😉
secondwind75 👍
We use our telescoping Wonder Pole. Fiberglass, 18" extends to about 38". Extended keeps someone at distance, or 3/4" tip directed to abdomen, etc. Blunt end 1 1/4" can be used if necessary to deliver a harder hit to the legs, upper chest, and if necessary the shoulder, etc. Also great for lifting wires, etc.
Great advice in safety. My wife and I also place solar motion sensor led lights in several places on the exterior of our 5th wheel and are great nite lights for safety as well as a deterrent for snooping around.
Yes thats a great idea too! Thanks for sharing it. :) - MJ
Exactly! Yes these days you Need to be Vigilant & Aware.
Excellent common sense video, Thank you for all that you do.
Thanks for watching Gus
Izzy
Thank you for your service. Keep your head on a swivel.
Thank you Annie.
Thank you for discussing this topic. I am new to the RV family and really appreciate your perspective and knowledge. I also appreciate how you both talk about this in a very straight forward/plain and simple way. We can all apply these techniques to improve our overall safety in our own situations thus improving our safety and security in our communities.
Thank you Gary for checking out the video and the kind words
Izzy
Awesome video. Thanks a lot from Alaska. Up here you can carry concealed or open. It’s nice. I’m considering full timing starting this fall. I think number one was the best, trust your gut/instinct. Two, know your surroundings. Three, watch the body language of people, pay close attention, it speaks louder than words. Four, trust no one, no matter who they are or what they say, make them know that you know. These four things together have saved my butt a few times. Thanks a lot. Excellent information
Glad you enjoyed the video. Stay safe out there! :) - MJ
Great advice for people. Most people tend to not think of the basics they just rely on someone else to save them and most situations especially camping we need to depend on ourselves its part of being self reliant just like having the right right camping gear and food to stay situated for an entire week without having to go into town.
👍
my friend s& w is a double barrel shot gun loaded with bird shot! barrel is shorten to legal length. for everyone situation awareness is critical to your survival.
I like the point about being aware, in the age of cell phones. It seems like very people are paying attention any more.
Yup Agree 100% - we keep eyes up and looking around when we stop. 21 years in Military taught me to always be aware of our surroundings. I always have my exit path identified when inside an establishment. I always check firearm laws in the places we travel. Never go to Jersey. Lol
Yep eyes all around our heads. :) And yes don’t even come near here with a firearm. 😂 Thanks for watching. - MJ