Retired Firefighter and fire investigator living in a Solitude as well. I compiled a safety document for our friends. I can add several ideas. Don’t run cords under rugs or thru doorways, show everyone staying with you where the escape windows are and how they operate and have them open the windows themselves. Have kids throw a blanket or quilt over the window sill and practice crawling out and after they re out, grab the blanket to keep themselves warm until help arrives. Have a meet up place pre determined. Test the smoke detectors biannual and the biggest one is, those that are in fifth wheels and sleep over the hitch should have an escape ladder near the window to make getting out quicker and safer. Th
Thanks Jerry- these are great tips!!! Very important for all to know escape routes. I was hearing today that you have just 11 seconds to get out in case of an RV fire. I'm sure it's different depending on the rig, but probably not much more than that. Thanks again for your comment.
I watch a lot of RVer's videos and this is the first time I have ever heard anyone correctly state where a CO2 alarm should be placed. I see them put up on the ceiling, 5 feet off the floor and other useless places. So glad to hear someone who knows what he is talking about. Fantastic video. Thank you!
Propane is heavier than air. Same with Carbon Monoxide. Natural Gas, however, is lighter than air, so those detectors in homes are placed higher near the ceiling. Follow manufacturers instructions for installation.
Tip: Turn off propane when traveling. Many rigs have propane lines routed around or near tire wells. If a tire blows out, it will damage surrounding area, possibly breaching the propane line and starting a fire. Great video and advice!
Great tip, thanks. And it's my understanding there is a shut-off valve that closes automatically if there is a sudden loss of propane. I will have to google to find more info.
@@LizAmazing ---We installed a GasStop device and we had a lot of problems with it shutting off the propane for no reason. We have multiple propane, CO, and smoke detectors on our rig (Class A) and there was absolutely no propane leak but nonetheless, GasStop shut our propane down, repeatedly. It is supposedly designed for only MAJOR leaks and we definitely did NOT have any major leak. After researching it on other RV forums we found that it can be more of a PIA than a helpful device. Apparently there are a lot of things other than propane leaks that will cause the device to shut down the propane. You and Paul might want to do some research on it---we were thinking it would give us a little peace of mind but found it to be very troublesome. We've removed it. Thank you again for another informative video!
@@ocny4468 I was just talking to someone about Gas-Stop and mentioned that it will have 'false triggers', usually caused by the furnace as it can require a large inrush of gas that the Gas-Stop sees as a leak. We thought about doing a video but passed on it after learning that.
@@paulontheroad ----the "trigger" in our case was our Truma Aqua-Go water heater. Within seconds of turning it on the Truma indicator knob would start flashing, sensing a loss of flame. We removed the GasStop and had no more issues.
This past Monday my wife and I were two miles from our house returning from a long weekend trip when our engine bay caught fire……seems a hydraulic line fell on the tranny and melted and started the fire. I have been a volunteer fireman for over 40 years so I was prepared for such a situation with extra extinguishers. I was able to call 911 and get my own fire dept dispatched before I went to work to put the fire out. Had it out before my engine showed. I am heartbroken over this. Our coach is a 2022 and now we probably won’t have it for most of the rest of this season. Thanks for posting about fire safety.
Shawn, can you share what brand and model your coach is? We have a 2022 coach too and your experience has me concerned. So so sorry this happened to you and I can only imagine the heartbreak you must be feeling. Glad you are all safe and hope you are back on the road soon!
@@ocny4468 I have a 2022 Thor Outlaw. Crawl under you coach and secure any hanging wires or hoses….I did this but obviously didn’t go under the doghouse to check.
Liz, Paul as a former fire fighter with 15 years on the line. 1: A fire doubles in size for every minute it burns. 2: The leading cause of death in a fire is smoke inhalation. 3: Most fire extinguisher s in the current RVS are AB. You should have a ABC Extinguisher also they should be a five pound minimum. 4: Have more than one. With the current fifth wheels have a second means of express out. Buy a fire ladder and store it in the highest room. 5: Smoke alarms TEST THEM 6: No Candles Preventive measures I currently have 2 ten pound extinguishers on our tow vehicle We have two in the 5th wheel and a throw able one by the stove and by the dryer. Gas stops on the propane tanks I travel with our tanks in the off position I do appliance maintenance once a year when I dewinterized our rig for the winter. We are getting ready to purchase a new toy hauler and will be contacting Arron at jonesn2travel since he does fire suppression systems. The total cost quoted to completely equip our coach and tow rig was a little over $3500. I think that's pretty cheap insurance. When it comes to Cindy and the grand babies being safe I will pay anything. That's the reason we went with the HDT for pulling. Safe travels and roads Brian and Cindy, "xtreambydesign with passion "
Hi Brian & Cindy! Thanks so much for all the very important information in your comment. So much to be aware of when owning an RV! We hope these RV fire prevention tips along with your facts help save a life. Thanks again!
Thanks for your input! Aaron just installed Proteng in my entire 5th-wheel. I just checked all my fire extinguishers (4 in the camper plus 2 in the truck) and will buy the ones you recommended. I have dobber screens and an escape ladder in the bedroom. My smoke detectors are up-to-date. I pray all that is never needed!
Another great video. Wonderful information and I really enjoyed the professional information from a semi-retired firefighter who has an RV. So sorry for the people who lost everything. I am glad they were away and had their pets with them.
So thankful no one was at home. We've only had our Airstream a few months (still no SC tag) but before the sell we had a full thorough inspection. One of things the sellers did was replace the monitors & fire extinguishers. Also I keep baking soda handy when cooking (we have induction) and I'm encouraging my husband to do all the grilling outside, or as much cooking as possible outside. Also after seeing this, there is no way I'll be leaving Jackson & Piper behind. Our pups will be with us whenever we leave. We also carry fire extinguishers in our truck because you never know when you'll need one on the road. THANK YOU so much for sharing this ~
Yes. I was thinking the same thing about pets. It's good to have a monitor but you wouldn't be able to get back quick enough. Thanks so much for watching Dell and let's hope this video prevents an RV fire.
We have two dogs and never leave them unattended in our coach. They go with us wherever we go. Sure, it limits us, but they are family members and we would be devastated if we lost them in an RV fire! As Liz stated, a monitor is good but would never let you get to your rig in time to save your pets---those RV fires tend to be very fast moving and the interiors of the RV's are absolutely filled with combustible material. They become infernos in mere minutes, sadly.
I do have a fireball suppression container in my rear fridge compartment. Hopefully will never have to use it but it does give me peace of mind knowing I have it there. It works very simply, it’s a styrofoam ball which has a safe non toxic fire retardant powder in it. There is no maintenance required you just place it where you want protection and forget it. If there is a fire within a few seconds that fireball will explode safely and dispense the powder, in addition there is a very loud bang(120 decibels) which if your sleeping it should alert you to get out of your rig. I have seen a demo of one igniting and videos from the company. I’m fairly confident that will work to extinguish 🧯a fire or at least give you time to escape it. If a fire starts in your fridge compartment within 5-10 seconds this “FireBall” will ignite/start on it own. It will explode with a very loud bang to wake you and then dispense the fire retardant powder to smother the fire. Either extinguishing the fire or slowing it down to allow you time to escape from your RV. I have mine hanging by the provided clip just above the fridge. There are several sizes of these fireballs and there good for all Type of fires A/B/C /D/E, and K fires. The one I have is made by AFG auto fire guard (Fireball)
Amazing informational video, thank you so much and thanks to Bob for sharing his expertise. I will be sharing this video with all my family and friends who have campers.
We’ve had our TT for only 2 years and we have 2 very serious recalls that many owners will be getting as well. First is the propane regulator recall and the second is the propane quick connect port recall. Both of these problems could easily cause a fire so we took it to the dealer and they are going to replace them. I suggest that everyone check to make sure if your rig has any recalls and get them fixed as soon as possible!
Yes. Thank you so much for this. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of taking care of any and all recalls. Let's hope this video and your comment will help prevent an RV fire. Thanks again. Be safe out there.
OMG! Thanks SO MUCH for sharing and as you said, my heart goes out to the owners, and thank goodness nobody was in it... Wondeful PSA and ALL THE BEST to you! Safe travels, and Cheers :) !!
Doing Medevac for years, the number of rigs on the roads and the on board fires is daunting. In a campsite, try to move your rig, safety to you and family is important. This by far is the most valued video on UTuber travels. Thank you. Capt. B Retired.
Thank you. Also, water leak alarms. My first time out a guy told me of his first time out. They did not turn off the water pump and something caused the faucet to turn on flooding the RV while they went merrily down the road. It leaked into the wiring causing a short and fire! It burned and they were totally unaware! I guess they would not have heard any alarm in the truck, but a leak alarm could help prevent that type of fire and/or other heart aches!
I am so glad Liz and Paul told us not to let our campers catch on fire.... Just in time too. I was about to torch mine but good ole' Liz and Paul were just THAT convincing
We have a class A, I know it’s hard to keep up on things, people get behind on upkeep, and let things go undone, it’s so important to know what’s going on in your rig at all time. It’s a lot of work you cannot be lazy owning a motorhome and to maintain it, is hard work, But it pays off in the long run, to keep you and your loved ones safe. Thinks for these video.
In our 40FT Tiffin Phaeton, we installed Proteng fire suppression systems in our generator area, dash, battery, inverter and engine compartments. We still need to install a unit our tow vehicle engine compartment. We have a fire extinguisher in the tow, and in each corner of our rigs bay area along with, two fire alarms for carbon and propane detection. The Fire extinguishers in the rig, consists of the factory one near the passenger seat,mid-ship we installed one, and in the bedroom. Our fire alarms are all linked, so if one goes off they all do. The 15th of every month they all get tested, and the fire extinguishers shaken to keep the material inside loose. A tip: while enroute we keep our dog loose leashed (the kind the vet uses to take the dog back for an exam), so in case of an e emergency we can just grab the lease instead of in a panic trying to grab the dog. We also keep GO bags, it is a bag with our essential items that will get us by, one bag is stored behind passenger seat, another bag is located mid-ship in the bay below, and another is in the tow vehicle. We have a fireproof and waterproof safe for housing our important documents.
What a great video! . . . I'm sure your video will result in actual "lives saved". . . one IMPORTANT ADDITIONAL FACT . . . The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that nearly 2,000 RV fires occur annually. Don't let yours be one of them! RV fires can start when your RV is moving or when it is parked.Jan 26, 2022
I pray that it never happens to us OR anyone we know. We have witnessed the devastating effects of sticks and bricks fires with family and friends. Thanks for the wonderful video. It does put the fear of, "What if" in us and hopefully others. Be safe safe all!
Thank you Susan. We learned a lot during our research for this video. We will be doing some upgrades such as adding alerts in our storage bays. Be safe.
Very very good advice but one thing that wasn't mentioned that is especially important if you have kids. Have a plan and each time you are at a new campsite go over that plan again so EVERBODY is on the same page and knows what to do and MOST IMPORTANT where to meet incase of a fire or other emergency so you KNOW everyone is accounted for and safe. I am also an X-firefighter, wildland but as far as safety many of the same concepts apply.
Hi and welcome to the channel. Glad you watched this very important video. We added more things to our Amazon store based on recommendations. We just bought the fire suppression ball and are installing it behind our RV fridge. Store link: www.amazon.com/shop/lizamazing See you in the next video, and thanks for your comment!
That’s a real shame I’m glad everyone and pets are ok my friend was next to a class a in a campground that did that and it was a battery problem thanks you guys
i would also add to have a bucket of sand on hand because water won't stop an electrical fire sand will remove all the oxygen stopping the electrical fire, but always check grounding and check for shorts you may have in the electrical system in order to prevent them too and using only electrical equipment that is rated for the outlets and GFCI outlets are a must.
We full time and we practice fire escape drills with our children. We carry 2 large fire extinguishers and one small one that came with the RV. It is absolutely imperative whether you full time or simply camp.
I watch a video last night that stated that's there's over 1500 RV's that burn up every year. Those tiny fire extinguishers that come with a camper are a joke! I can tell you as a former fire fighter and doing test on them that #1, almost no one has a clue on how to even use one, #2, Even if they do the one's that comes with the unit may only last about 5 to10 seconds. I saw a brand new class A still with 30 day tags on it pull into a campground to register and it burst into flames. The owner said he had smelled something burning all day but he kept driving. Of the three we had burn in one year in this area, two where caused by the fridge, and one by there running a Little Buddy heater to close to something flammable.
Yikes. Yes, heaters can be a big culprit. And fridges. Geez about the owner ignoring a burning smell. We agree those fire extinguishers are no help. Ya just gotta get out asap. Thanks for watching and commenting, Joseph!
I am not a fulltime RV-er. Use my caravan in the summer. For me prevention (before anything happens) is the thing, so I have my caravan gas system pressure tested humidity and full service every year before the season starts. During winter it's kept in a unheated indoor hall. They wash it befor l pick it up. If the gas alarm goes off, just get out and leave the door open.
It’s always so sad to see an RV burn or on fire not to mention that lives could be lost. This type of video is much needed to help us remember that it could happen to us too. Thanks. 👍🏻❤️
I recommend get your gas system tested once a year if stationery year round or 2x if travelling. I was at an rv park for a while as a long haul driver. Got back from a haul- I was so exhausted asleep I didn’t hear a trailer explode about 150 feet away. Anyways long story short, old man apparently told a neighbor earlier he smelled something funny in his trailer. The explosion blew him out of his trailer about 20 feet out of his sleep. He lived about 5 months after but still died because of propane explosion. Because of inconvenience to get your rv tested for gas leak you can buy a manometer or get the gauge and hose and adapters at plumbing store and make one. I was in the RV industry for several years, and we used manometers on new and used rvs all the time.
So sad.. Grand design had a recall gas leak just took my 2022 transcend to General RV this week. Travel beans van caught on fire love their channel hearts go out to them to.
When I saw the burning RV, I thought, Oh No! What did Paul do this time?! Then I realized, it's a Class A!🙂 Love you guys. Stay safe. Appreciate all the information/advice you give.
So we were going to do one of our little funnies at the end but decided not to. It just didn't feel right after such a serious video. But Lauren, you have the best ideas!!!
@@LizAmazing i agree; any humor on this one wd sour an rv viewer who had an rv fire; the worst scenario being their pets perished in the blaze; i cant imagine the torment of either...
WOW you guys! Devastating! Thank God everyone was ok. I saw a van blow up from the homeless occupants misusing propane. Fire danger affects all equally. Thank you Liz and Paul for the wonderful, life saving tips! Sending you love 💞
We use a fire suppression “ball”. Just keep it in an area that is easily accessed. Just toss it in the truck or trailer where the fire is. Research these and how effective they can be at putting out fires.
I read awhile back that if a fire starts in your RV, the best thing to do is NOT to get the fire extinguisher but to get the heck out of the RV if you're inside of it. Rvs will burn faster than you can try to put it out.
Thanks so much for this useful information. I made notes and hope to remember these safety tips. I always enjoy y’all’s videos. Stay safe and keep on keeping on
Great information. We watched a video from RVing with Andrew Steele, he & his wife experienced a fire in their Class A motor home, it started with smoke coming from the dash while going down the road, he got the rig off the road & got out & away safely, their rig was totaled. We haven’t experienced anything like that, but we feel for them, will be 🙏🙏also
I saw that same video when it came out. Caught fire while he was driving down the road. They barely had time to get out. He didn't even have a pair of shoes.
That is our home base campground. We were there the same time and saw the after affects of the fire. So scary! I will be looking into fire suppression.
It is so real!!! We had a light in an outside cabinet get turned on by shifting contents going down the road. The light heated up and started melting the tire covers in the cabinet amd the light cover itself. Fortunately, we had a short travel and opened that cabinet before it started a fire. We check the cabimets frequently and pack the cabinet so nothing can touch the light switch.
Wow, you, two! What a close call! I can't imagine. I just told Paul this and he's going to check our light to make sure it can't come on. Thanks for letting us and the RUclips world know!
I have a vintage 1972, 25', Airstream trailer. While the furnace is new, the water heater new several years ago and the other gas fueled appliances working properly, I always turn the individual appliances gas valves off and then turn the main gas valve on the tanks off whenever we go to sleep, leave the trailer for any length of time and when travelling. Sure, it is a bit inconvenient having to relight a pilot or two, but it's certainly better than crawling out of the trailer... in your underwear...while illuminated by fire light!
You said it Tom. You have to put safety first always. The propane is turned off in the rig right now (cooking with an induction) and won't be turned on until it's time for the furnace. The heat pump will keep it warm till then. Thanks for your comment!
Added 2 more fire exstinguishers to our rig , my wife said how many do u need and i said hopefully none but it may save us if needed, also i did make sure they were rated for ABC, thanks for the video , and the advice
MY RV park neighbor had a old 90s camper, last August 17 it caught fire at 1 am, he didn't make it out, and my 5th wheel had several melted parts, and a warped front door, and other burn marks from the heat. After I got the smell of burnt fiberglass out, I still have a home thank God. I was within a couple of minutes of the flames hitting his propane tanks before the Fire Dept arrived. I have a 1994 Dutchmen Royal 5th wheel. I love it , and I dont want another, I want out of the living year round trailer Business all together. But its going to be a few years before I have enough saved to do so. Since our trailers are so close together, I bought 3 new large fire extinguishers, and gave 1 to me other neighbor.Anyhow, I am legitimately concerned about the fires caused by Refrigerator, short circuit, wall fire, whatever. I have re done all my plugs so they are not overloaded. I did not think it would, but I am rattled to say the least, every time I look out my door I see his shell of a camper. Which lead me to research a bit.
Oh my gosh. So very sorry. Your story sure gives a sobering view of RV life. Campers are often too close together and very much a fire hazard. Thank you for watching.
My refrigerator caught fire the day I bought the RV. Granted, mine is older and it was my first RV so when I was watching videos on how to turn everything on, I never expected there would be a mouse nest under the fridge that was right near the flame for the propane fridge. I had an extinguisher and put it out then removed it and put the same size fridge from a boat that runs 12v or 120v and no propane.
Wow! What a close call. Thanks for sharing your experience, Denny, and for watching. See you in my new video right here: ruclips.net/video/Hq5bW-tlg4w/видео.html
Every RV should have 3 x 3 fire extinguishers what I mean by that is one fire extinguisher by the driver one in the kitchen area and one in the bedroom area they should have all three rating A,B,C. To cover all types of homes that you may encounter. And make sure you update them as required there are instructions and a date on when this should be done
Wow 😮 So sad. Very happy they and the pets weren’t there. I can’t imagine watching my rig burn to the ground. I’m going to buy a propane detector for sure. Thanks!!
To late. All I did was turn on the fridge for the first time. Waited to see if it was working, didn't see or smell anything wrong/bad. 10 minutes later my neighbor knocked on the door and said my RV was on fire. Never got to use it once. Just glad it happened while my dogs and myself were at home and not on the road.
Oh no. How awful. So very sorry. Just learned about fire balls from a viewer. Perfect to put in the fridge compartment. Automatic fire extinguisher. I will add this to our Amazon store. Be safe and hope you get another rig sometime.
We bought a brand new Newmar Country Star in 2005. Afterwards there had been some recalls on fridges earlier than our camper (as we fondly refer to our motorhomes), as we found out later. We had the camper fully packed to leave early in the morning for a trip to Mexico. All our diving gear, etc., etc. Some time in the night I woke up for some reason and saw lights flashing on our wall. We live in the boonies and do not have curtains. Come to find out it was the fire department at our camper. My husband went running out just as the fire department was ready to break in the door. Turns out it was our Norcold fridge. We tried to file a claim with Norcold but they indicated that the year of our camper was not in the recall. Many years later we noticed that it was and so contacted Norcold again. They indicated that we had filed a claim years ago (2007) and it was declined so there was nothing we could do. We tried to argue that at the time of our fire our year of camper had not been on the recall list. Long story short, we didn't get anything out of the deal and we also had to continue to pay $21,000 for our camper after it was gone. Our insurance had replacement but it had to be a "like" vehicle. I couldn't do another motorhome because I was so afraid of just having the one exit up front and just knew that my buff husband with large arms and shoulders would not have fit through the exit window. So we sucked it up and paid for a camper we didn't even own. Worst experience ever. We got a toy hauler with two exits which made me more comfortable but after some years (2015) we bought another diesel pusher that had a residential fridge (no propane). But, again, what a learning experience. KNOW your insurance. UNDERSTAND your insurance!
Oh my gosh, Sheryl, what a sad story. Glad you continued with RV life on your terms. Very good tip about knowing and understanding your insurance. Thanks so much for your comment.
We were on our way home yesterday and got into a slow down in TN just north of Nashville. A fifth wheel was completely burned up! They had a bad day. The tow vehicle was gone already.
Wowsa! We just learned there are something like 2000 RV fires every year. We hope our tips help save some lives. And that everyone got out OK at the fire you saw.
Ironic how this video came out. Yesterday, while transferring water, I got a text from my neighbor, half mile, "I think our new neighbors trailer is on fire." I jumped in my truck, Charlotte called 911 along with our surrounding neighbors. The assumption was refrigerator fire. Unfortunately 2 dogs were in the trailer, by the time anyone got to it, it was too late. Total loss. The owner just went to town to pick up building materials. Folk! Service your refrigerator. A lot of build up and debris collect in the burn chamber.
Oh. My. Goodness. Scott & Charlotte, we are so sorry about your neighbors and heartbroken about their fur babies. Yes, RV fridge fires are far too common. Whew. Thanks for your comment. I hope it helps remind people.
In 2004 I witnessed my first RV fire, more of the wrong things were done (as listed in this video) than right. The unit was unoccupied at the time and the fridge caught fire. When I first saw it I thought it was the sun reflecting off the refrigerator panel, but I immediately realized it was the wrong time for that and the fridge panel on that unit was plastic. I shouted FIRE identified the unit and went for a phone (as did many others). More people went and got the fire under control with an extinguisher thanks to early detection, they also disconnected the propane and the electricity. By the time the fire department arrived, they only had to put out some smoldering and overhaul. We even had an RV tech in the park and he explained that the RV fridges (the type that can run on propane as the 12 volt compressor type weren't available yet) generate hydrogen and it was likely that the refrigerator's cooling unit sprung a leak.
Wow, how awful. So glad no one died. Yes, RV fridges are the culprit in many fires. We are going to get one of those fire ball prevention devices to put in the fridge compartment. Link to it in our store: www.amazon.com/shop/lizamazing
I had a rodent make a nest under the air cleaner when the motor home was in storage, which started a fire about 20 minutes after I started it. Lucky I had a fire extinguisher handy.
Brings up a point. How to travel and keep your fridge cold? Propane or electric? We've been using our Propane while traveling. Don't really like it, but battery seems insufficient. Would love to hears thoughts on this.
We no longer have a propane fridge (residential fridge with inverter in our Class A now) but when we had a Class C we had a propane/electric fridge. We never traveled with the propane on. Got the fridge good and cold and packed the freezer with frozen food and ice packs that could be refrozen in addition to ice in ice cube trays. We also added those re-freezable packs to the refrigerator section. Frankly I had heard too many horror stories about propane fridge fires to trust leaving the propane on during travel. We had little fridge and freezer thermometers in our Norcold unit and even after 3-4 hours of travel our food stayed frozen/cold and within a safe temperature range when we prepared our unit with the freezer packs.
It’s a personal choice. We have solar so our fridge runs on electric. But before then we were both comfortable with propane. The tanks will automatically shut off if the flow if the line gets cut.
@@LizAmazing ---we didn't feel comfortable traveling with the propane running but many do and do so without incident. All depends on the individual, I guess!
We have the Waggle pet monitoring system in our RV. In theory it works well, but we've had several connectivity problems that required a call to Waggle customer service. Question: Our on-board Hughes surge protector / booster is advertised that an external surge protector at the pedestal is not required. Do we need both?
That’s right. If you have one that is hardwired then you don’t need another one at the pedestal. Happy and safe travels to you, and thanks for the feedback on the pet monitoring system.
After seeing another class A fire I keep a "to go" bag right next to me while driving. Important papers, a change of clothes and always have my cat near by
When you buy fire extinguishers make sure the pin is metal not plastic plastic warps when the vehicle or camper gets hot even the rubber o ring around the shaft can stick to it I had an old school bus I used for work one day while heading home after a job just as I was crossing a set of railway tracks it died right on the track first thought was was what's wrong at least with a standard transmission you can still get off the tracks but almost immediately smoke started pouring out from under the hood grabbing my extinguisher out the door I went grab the hood latch and opened it there was flames everywhere pulled the pin and squeezed the trigger and nothing as hard as I tried I couldn't get it to move I finally turned it upside down and slammed it on the road finally got it to set off and put out the fire if the pin had been plastic it would have snapped as it was I bent the aluminum pin the damage was minimal turned out the rubber gasline hoses that attached the inline fuel filter had cracked filling the top of the engine with gasoline eventually it started spraying and landing the fuel on the exhaust manifold before finally breaking when gas hits a hot manifold it's inevitable that it catches fire and with a half gallon or so on top of the motor it's a very hot fire which you have to get out quickly had to replace some wires and the spark plug wires as they were arcing badly but after replacing the hoses I was able to make it home and do the repairs afterwards I installed a second extinguisher by the back door so if you have an older motor home from before the year 2000 check your fuel lines and make sure that there are no rubber gasline hoses if there are any get quality gas line hose and replace them a lot of inline fuel filter are underneath the vehicle and don't assume that because your vehicle has plastic gas lines it's okay I had a Ford box van all the lines were plastic but one day sitting at a Red light the guy beside me rolled his window down and motioned for me to do the same I did and he said you've got something leaking under the vehicle so I pulled into the mall and checked it was pouring gas about mid way underneath the vehicle so I shut it off and crawled under to see where The leak was and right by the filter someone had added an electric fuel pump with rubber gasline hoses if it was a mechanic he shouldn't have a license as it was a terrible job over a foot of hose each side the go 2 inches the inlet side was kinked and cracked at the kink since it was pouring out before the pump I couldn't see a need for the pump as obviously the pump in the tank was working I hooked it up after removing the pump and it ran okay I also noticed that I'd lost half a tank of gas with all that gas on the underside of the unit if it had caught fire it would have burned up as I've gotten pretty lax at carrying a extinguisher I didn't have one
First thing we did is upgrade to bigger fire extinguisher, the ones that come with the RV are just to small. In fact we have 3 maybe an over kill but I believe 1 is not enough.
YOU are the best! So thankful you took the time to share such important tips. The knowledge you shared is certain to prevent RV fires and even to save lives. Thank you again so much!
Hi Mary and Fred! Yes, it was so sad to see this. I still can't imagine what it must have been like to come home to that. Thanks for watching and commenting and be safe!
Very useful information thank you. it would be great to see you follow up with a prevention of how do we prevent having a fire in RV candles in my RV are out of the question I try to limit never having an open flame to do anything it’s just too risky. I am sure there’s some other good advice we could give people.
And then a year later I saw yet another camper go up in flames in the campground. Sadly, it happens all too frequently. Thanks for watching and be safe.
I had a smoke alarm wake me up in the middle of the night in our house. It’s a terrible feeling to be awakened by that sound. What is it? Where is it coming from? When I opened the basement door it was rather bright down there. I grabbed a fire extinguisher and was able to put it out. Not an RV related story but a smoke alarm and a fire extinguisher saved our house and possibly our lives. Forty dollars worth of equipment made the difference. Be prepared!
Once again a great video. I wish fire extinguishers were cheaper. I wonder if a fire team is an hour out, how can a garden hose be maximized to prevent spread. Should the greenery around be soaked? Is a garden bose better than nothing. What does an lp tank or diesel tank do when ignited, or lithium batteries. LP fridges scare me, always have
sorry this question will be off content... I saw the video that you did when you were at Glacier National Park. I can't find it again, but can you tell me the name of the campground you stayed in? Thanks in advance. Love the channel
Yep, and they say they don't want the old ones in the campgrounds due to "safety reasons" mmmm hmmmm I see now what they mean. These newer ones are exceptionally safe!
True that! This one could have been brand new for all we know. That said, we've only had one campground in 3.5 years of fulltime RVing ever ask us how old our rig is when making a reservation.
Sorry if I missed it but, what caused the fire in that motorhome? Also, in a previous video what caused your kitchen island to collapse in your 310GK 5th wheel? Thanks
Yes! That was Paul’s idea to include a fireman who has an RV. We are pleased to share these RV fire prevention tips. We sure hope they help save a life!
Retired Firefighter and fire investigator living in a Solitude as well. I compiled a safety document for our friends. I can add several ideas. Don’t run cords under rugs or thru doorways, show everyone staying with you where the escape windows are and how they operate and have them open the windows themselves. Have kids throw a blanket or quilt over the window sill and practice crawling out and after they re out, grab the blanket to keep themselves warm until help arrives. Have a meet up place pre determined. Test the smoke detectors biannual and the biggest one is, those that are in fifth wheels and sleep over the hitch should have an escape ladder near the window to make getting out quicker and safer. Th
Thanks Jerry- these are great tips!!! Very important for all to know escape routes. I was hearing today that you have just 11 seconds to get out in case of an RV fire. I'm sure it's different depending on the rig, but probably not much more than that. Thanks again for your comment.
I always test CO/Propane and smoke detectors on every trip.
I watch a lot of RVer's videos and this is the first time I have ever heard anyone correctly state where a CO2 alarm should be placed. I see them put up on the ceiling, 5 feet off the floor and other useless places. So glad to hear someone who knows what he is talking about. Fantastic video. Thank you!
CO*
Thanks Tuffy, so glad you weighed in. We sure hope our video prevents an RV fire or a CO death. Be safe!
Propane is heavier than air. Same with Carbon Monoxide. Natural Gas, however, is lighter than air, so those detectors in homes are placed higher near the ceiling. Follow manufacturers instructions for installation.
You are wrong. CO is neutral and can be found at any level.
Yeah same here, first video I’ve seen too-location height imperative!
Tip: Turn off propane when traveling. Many rigs have propane lines routed around or near tire wells. If a tire blows out, it will damage surrounding area, possibly breaching the propane line and starting a fire.
Great video and advice!
Great tip, thanks. And it's my understanding there is a shut-off valve that closes automatically if there is a sudden loss of propane. I will have to google to find more info.
@@LizAmazing ---We installed a GasStop device and we had a lot of problems with it shutting off the propane for no reason. We have multiple propane, CO, and smoke detectors on our rig (Class A) and there was absolutely no propane leak but nonetheless, GasStop shut our propane down, repeatedly.
It is supposedly designed for only MAJOR leaks and we definitely did NOT have any major leak.
After researching it on other RV forums we found that it can be more of a PIA than a helpful device. Apparently there are a lot of things other than propane leaks that will cause the device to shut down the propane. You and Paul might want to do some research on it---we were thinking it would give us a little peace of mind but found it to be very troublesome.
We've removed it.
Thank you again for another informative video!
@@ocny4468 I was just talking to someone about Gas-Stop and mentioned that it will have 'false triggers', usually caused by the furnace as it can require a large inrush of gas that the Gas-Stop sees as a leak.
We thought about doing a video but passed on it after learning that.
@@paulontheroad ----the "trigger" in our case was our Truma Aqua-Go water heater. Within seconds of turning it on the Truma indicator knob would start flashing, sensing a loss of flame. We removed the GasStop and had no more issues.
This past Monday my wife and I were two miles from our house returning from a long weekend trip when our engine bay caught fire……seems a hydraulic line fell on the tranny and melted and started the fire. I have been a volunteer fireman for over 40 years so I was prepared for such a situation with extra extinguishers. I was able to call 911 and get my own fire dept dispatched before I went to work to put the fire out. Had it out before my engine showed. I am heartbroken over this. Our coach is a 2022 and now we probably won’t have it for most of the rest of this season. Thanks for posting about fire safety.
hopefully your insurance will be prompt about recompensing you.
Oh my, Shawn. How terrifying! So very glad you knew what to do and no lives were lost. Hope you get back to RVing sooner rather than later.
@@LizAmazing I wd b grabbing my makeup and all my tennis clothes...
Shawn, can you share what brand and model your coach is? We have a 2022 coach too and your experience has me concerned.
So so sorry this happened to you and I can only imagine the heartbreak you must be feeling.
Glad you are all safe and hope you are back on the road soon!
@@ocny4468 I have a 2022 Thor Outlaw. Crawl under you coach and secure any hanging wires or hoses….I did this but obviously didn’t go under the doghouse to check.
Liz, Paul as a former fire fighter with 15 years on the line.
1: A fire doubles in size for every minute it burns.
2: The leading cause of death in a fire is smoke inhalation.
3: Most fire extinguisher s in the current RVS are AB. You should have a ABC Extinguisher also they should be a five pound minimum.
4: Have more than one. With the current fifth wheels have a second means of express out. Buy a fire ladder and store it in the highest room.
5: Smoke alarms TEST THEM
6: No Candles
Preventive measures
I currently have 2 ten pound extinguishers on our tow vehicle
We have two in the 5th wheel and a throw able one by the stove and by the dryer.
Gas stops on the propane tanks
I travel with our tanks in the off position
I do appliance maintenance once a year when I dewinterized our rig for the winter.
We are getting ready to purchase a new toy hauler and will be contacting Arron at jonesn2travel since he does fire suppression systems. The total cost quoted to completely equip our coach and tow rig was a little over $3500. I think that's pretty cheap insurance.
When it comes to Cindy and the grand babies being safe I will pay anything. That's the reason we went with the HDT for pulling. Safe travels and roads Brian and Cindy, "xtreambydesign with passion "
Hi Brian & Cindy! Thanks so much for all the very important information in your comment. So much to be aware of when owning an RV! We hope these RV fire prevention tips along with your facts help save a life. Thanks again!
All excellent points. 👍🏻
Thanks for your input! Aaron just installed Proteng in my entire 5th-wheel. I just checked all my fire extinguishers (4 in the camper plus 2 in the truck) and will buy the ones you recommended. I have dobber screens and an escape ladder in the bedroom. My smoke detectors are up-to-date. I pray all that is never needed!
@@martinasaxton7033 Martina,
Also through a couple extra smoke alarms and co2 detectors in the rig. It never hurts too have two of one thing.
@@brianroth7852 Already on my list to purchase 😊.
Thank you!!!
Another great video. Wonderful information and I really enjoyed the professional information from a semi-retired firefighter who has an RV. So sorry for the people who lost everything. I am glad they were away and had their pets with them.
Thanks Terry! We are glad no lives were lost in this RV fire. Whew!
Awesome advice and another great video. Prayers for the family that lost their rig yet grateful they, and their pets, are okay.
Yes,Rhonda, thank you. It’s a very sad time for them for sure.
Great topic. I've never even thought of fires in RVs. By the time I'm ready to RV full-time I'll be well prepared
So thankful no one was at home. We've only had our Airstream a few months (still no SC tag) but before the sell we had a full thorough inspection. One of things the sellers did was replace the monitors & fire extinguishers. Also I keep baking soda handy when cooking (we have induction) and I'm encouraging my husband to do all the grilling outside, or as much cooking as possible outside. Also after seeing this, there is no way I'll be leaving Jackson & Piper behind. Our pups will be with us whenever we leave. We also carry fire extinguishers in our truck because you never know when you'll need one on the road. THANK YOU so much for sharing this ~
Yes. I was thinking the same thing about pets. It's good to have a monitor but you wouldn't be able to get back quick enough. Thanks so much for watching Dell and let's hope this video prevents an RV fire.
We have two dogs and never leave them unattended in our coach. They go with us wherever we go.
Sure, it limits us, but they are family members and we would be devastated if we lost them in an RV fire!
As Liz stated, a monitor is good but would never let you get to your rig in time to save your pets---those RV fires tend to be very fast moving and the interiors of the RV's are absolutely filled with combustible material. They become infernos in mere minutes, sadly.
I do have a fireball suppression container in my rear fridge compartment. Hopefully will never have to use it but it does give me peace of mind knowing I have it there. It works very simply, it’s a styrofoam ball which has a safe non toxic fire retardant powder in it. There is no maintenance required you just place it where you want protection and forget it. If there is a fire within a few seconds that fireball will explode safely and dispense the powder, in addition there is a very loud bang(120 decibels) which if your sleeping it should alert you to get out of your rig. I have seen a demo of one igniting and videos from the company. I’m fairly confident that will work to extinguish 🧯a fire or at least give you time to escape it. If a fire starts in your fridge compartment within 5-10 seconds this “FireBall” will ignite/start on it own. It will explode with a very loud bang to wake you and then dispense the fire retardant powder to smother the fire. Either extinguishing the fire or slowing it down to allow you time to escape from your RV.
I have mine hanging by the provided clip just above the fridge. There are several sizes of these fireballs and there good for all Type of fires A/B/C /D/E, and K fires.
The one I have is made by AFG auto fire guard (Fireball)
Wow that sounds really good! I want to get one after reading this. Thanks for letting us know about it and for including the brand name.
Amazing informational video, thank you so much and thanks to Bob for sharing his expertise. I will be sharing this video with all my family and friends who have campers.
Thank you so much. Yes, please do share. We want to get the word out. Thanks again.
Thank you for your video. Such good advice. Glad to hear no one was hurt.
Thank you Jenine, yes they are heartbroken for sure.
We’ve had our TT for only 2 years and we have 2 very serious recalls that many owners will be getting as well. First is the propane regulator recall and the second is the propane quick connect port recall. Both of these problems could easily cause a fire so we took it to the dealer and they are going to replace them. I suggest that everyone check to make sure if your rig has any recalls and get them fixed as soon as possible!
Yes. Thank you so much for this. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of taking care of any and all recalls. Let's hope this video and your comment will help prevent an RV fire. Thanks again. Be safe out there.
OMG! Thanks SO MUCH for sharing and as you said, my heart goes out to the owners, and thank goodness nobody was in it... Wondeful PSA and ALL THE BEST to you! Safe travels, and Cheers :) !!
Doing Medevac for years, the number of rigs on the roads and the on board fires is daunting. In a campsite, try to move your rig, safety to you and family is important. This by far is the most valued video on UTuber travels. Thank you. Capt. B Retired.
Whew, yes, I bet you've seen a lot. Thanks so very much for your kind words. Be safe.
Thank you. Also, water leak alarms. My first time out a guy told me of his first time out. They did not turn off the water pump and something caused the faucet to turn on flooding the RV while they went merrily down the road. It leaked into the wiring causing a short and fire! It burned and they were totally unaware! I guess they would not have heard any alarm in the truck, but a leak alarm could help prevent that type of fire and/or other heart aches!
Whoa! What a nightmare. Wow! Yes, a leak alarm is a great. Thanks for taking the time to write this, LK!
I am so glad Liz and Paul told us not to let our campers catch on fire.... Just in time too. I was about to torch mine but good ole' Liz and Paul were just THAT convincing
You mean THANK YOU TO BOB, the fireman in this video sharing valuable advice that could save you life!!!
We have a class A, I know it’s hard to keep up on things, people get behind on upkeep, and let things go undone, it’s so important to know what’s going on in your rig at all time. It’s a lot of work you cannot be lazy owning a motorhome and to maintain it, is hard work, But it pays off in the long run, to keep you and your loved ones safe. Thinks for these video.
In our 40FT Tiffin Phaeton, we installed Proteng fire suppression systems in our generator area, dash, battery, inverter and engine compartments. We still need to install a unit our tow vehicle engine compartment. We have a fire extinguisher in the tow, and in each corner of our rigs bay area along with, two fire alarms for carbon and propane detection. The Fire extinguishers in the rig, consists of the factory one near the passenger seat,mid-ship we installed one, and in the bedroom. Our fire alarms are all linked, so if one goes off they all do. The 15th of every month they all get tested, and the fire extinguishers shaken to keep the material inside loose. A tip: while enroute we keep our dog loose leashed (the kind the vet uses to take the dog back for an exam), so in case of an e emergency we can just grab the lease instead of in a panic trying to grab the dog. We also keep GO bags, it is a bag with our essential items that will get us by, one bag is stored behind passenger seat, another bag is located mid-ship in the bay below, and another is in the tow vehicle. We have a fireproof and waterproof safe for housing our important documents.
We also keep leashes on our dogs in case we need to grab them quickly.
Great tips, thank you!
Awesome tips, thanks so much. Yes,a GO bag is very smart. Happy travels and be safe.
What a great video! . . . I'm sure your video will result in actual "lives saved". . . one IMPORTANT ADDITIONAL FACT . . . The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that nearly 2,000 RV fires occur annually. Don't let yours be one of them! RV fires can start when your RV is moving or when it is parked.Jan 26, 2022
Thank you so much Gary. What a sobering statistic and they can go up in flames so very fast. appreciate you for taking the time to write!
Prayers for that family. Great information. Thank you for another great video. Lots to keep in mind.
Yes. We just can’t imagine how hard this must be for that family. Thanks for watching and be safe.
I pray that it never happens to us OR anyone we know. We have witnessed the devastating effects of sticks and bricks fires with family and friends. Thanks for the wonderful video. It does put the fear of, "What if" in us and hopefully others. Be safe safe all!
Thank you Susan. We learned a lot during our research for this video. We will be doing some upgrades such as adding alerts in our storage bays. Be safe.
Very very good advice but one thing that wasn't mentioned that is especially important if you have kids. Have a plan and each time you are at a new campsite go over that plan again so EVERBODY is on the same page and knows what to do and MOST IMPORTANT where to meet incase of a fire or other emergency so you KNOW everyone is accounted for and safe. I am also an X-firefighter, wildland but as far as safety many of the same concepts apply.
Hi Steve! Yes, thanks for this. It is indeed so very important that the kids know how to get out. Thank you so much!
This was absolutely the best rv video i have seen. Newbie here. Taking all of these recommendations very serious. Thx
Hi and welcome to the channel. Glad you watched this very important video. We added more things to our Amazon store based on recommendations. We just bought the fire suppression ball and are installing it behind our RV fridge. Store link: www.amazon.com/shop/lizamazing
See you in the next video, and thanks for your comment!
Thanks for this very important video! Everyone stay safe out there.
Yes indeed. You don't want to mess with an RV fire. Thanks Charlene.
How terrible. So sorry for their loss. Glad nobody was hurt
Yes, very sobering. I'm sure it was a rough day for the RV owners when they came home to this.
That’s a real shame I’m glad everyone and pets are ok my friend was next to a class a in a campground that did that and it was a battery problem thanks you guys
Thanks Corey. Be careful out there. Even parking next to another camper could endanger you and yours if theirs catches fire.
Thanks for the grade 5 refresher tips we should all already know this stuff if you don’t you shouldn’t be RVing or living in a house for that matter!
Thanks Rich!
i would also add to have a bucket of sand on hand because water won't stop an electrical fire sand will remove all the oxygen stopping the electrical fire, but always check grounding and check for shorts you may have in the electrical system in order to prevent them too and using only electrical equipment that is rated for the outlets and GFCI outlets are a must.
We full time and we practice fire escape drills with our children. We carry 2 large fire extinguishers and one small one that came with the RV. It is absolutely imperative whether you full time or simply camp.
That's a great thing to do. Glad to hear this! We sure hope this video prevents and RV fire.
@@LizAmazing Indeed! Planning is prevention. Thanks for the video Liz!
Your videos are always on target, great information. Thanks for your time and hard work.
Thank you so very much Brian. Be safe.
I watch a video last night that stated that's there's over 1500 RV's that burn up every year. Those tiny fire extinguishers that come with a camper are a joke! I can tell you as a former fire fighter and doing test on them that #1, almost no one has a clue on how to even use one, #2, Even if they do the one's that comes with the unit may only last about 5 to10 seconds. I saw a brand new class A still with 30 day tags on it pull into a campground to register and it burst into flames. The owner said he had smelled something burning all day but he kept driving. Of the three we had burn in one year in this area, two where caused by the fridge, and one by there running a Little Buddy heater to close to something flammable.
Yikes. Yes, heaters can be a big culprit. And fridges. Geez about the owner ignoring a burning smell. We agree those fire extinguishers are no help. Ya just gotta get out asap. Thanks for watching and commenting, Joseph!
This was AWESOME. Thank you for the content you provide and all you do.
Thanks, Raul. So nice to be appreciated. We sure hope this video saves some lives.
Yes thank you to you and also to Bob, great video, very helpful and very important!!!!
Indeed. We sure hope it helps. Thank you for watching, Skip!
Thank you for the great advice, my heart goes out to these owners thank god they and there four legged baby were safe
Yes. We are saddened to have witnessed this. Thanks Chuck.
I am not a fulltime RV-er. Use my caravan in the summer. For me prevention (before anything happens) is the thing, so I have my caravan gas system pressure tested humidity and full service every year before the season starts. During winter it's kept in a unheated indoor hall. They wash it befor l pick it up.
If the gas alarm goes off, just get out and leave the door open.
Oh my!! This was scary, hate this for those people but thank God their pups were with them. Thanks Liz & Paul for probably the most important video🤗
Thank you, Lisa, we sure hope this helps!
It’s always so sad to see an RV burn or on fire not to mention that lives could be lost. This type of video is much needed to help us remember that it could happen to us too. Thanks. 👍🏻❤️
Thank you. Yes, a very sobering video. Be safe.
I recommend get your gas system tested once a year if stationery year round or 2x if travelling. I was at an rv park for a while as a long haul driver. Got back from a haul- I was so exhausted asleep I didn’t hear a trailer explode about 150 feet away. Anyways long story short, old man apparently told a neighbor earlier he smelled something funny in his trailer. The explosion blew him out of his trailer about 20 feet out of his sleep. He lived about 5 months after but still died because of propane explosion. Because of inconvenience to get your rv tested for gas leak you can buy a manometer or get the gauge and hose and adapters at plumbing store and make one.
I was in the RV industry for several years, and we used manometers on new and used rvs all the time.
Oh my gosh. Great tip. Wow. Thanks for taking the time to write this. Your comment may have saved others. And thanks for watching.
So sad.. Grand design had a recall gas leak just took my 2022 transcend to General RV this week. Travel beans van caught on fire love their channel hearts go out to them to.
Yes, it is very sad. Gotta be safe. Thanks for watching Ashley and glad you are taking care of your recall.
When I saw the burning RV, I thought, Oh No! What did Paul do this time?! Then I realized, it's a Class A!🙂 Love you guys. Stay safe. Appreciate all the information/advice you give.
ya; i was imagining him burning the bacon while he was combing his hair n admiring himself in the bathroom mirror...ha ha!!
😉
So we were going to do one of our little funnies at the end but decided not to. It just didn't feel right after such a serious video. But Lauren, you have the best ideas!!!
@@paulontheroad well PB u can ham it up on the next video eh!!
@@LizAmazing i agree; any humor on this one wd sour an rv viewer who had an rv fire; the worst scenario being their pets perished in the blaze; i cant imagine the torment of either...
Bookmarking this video! Thank you!
You're so welcome, glad it helped!
WOW you guys! Devastating! Thank God everyone was ok. I saw a van blow up from the homeless occupants misusing propane. Fire danger affects all equally. Thank you Liz and Paul for the wonderful, life saving tips! Sending you love 💞
Awww, thanks Jennifer! We since learned there are 2000 RV fires a year. We hope our video lowers that!
We use a fire suppression “ball”. Just keep it in an area that is easily accessed. Just toss it in the truck or trailer where the fire is. Research these and how effective they can be at putting out fires.
Yes! Thank you for this. We are going to get one for behind the fridge. Added it to our Amazon store. Thanks again!
I read awhile back that if a fire starts in your RV, the best thing to do is NOT to get the fire extinguisher but to get the heck out of the RV if you're inside of it. Rvs will burn faster than you can try to put it out.
Yes. I just heard today you have eleven seconds to get out. Hope these RV fire prevention tips help save a life.
Thanks so much for this useful information. I made notes and hope to remember these safety tips. I always enjoy y’all’s videos. Stay safe and keep on keeping on
So glad you took notes. We plan to do a follow up video down the line. Stay tuned, and thanks for watching.
Great information. We watched a video from RVing with Andrew Steele, he & his wife experienced a fire in their Class A motor home, it started with smoke coming from the dash while going down the road, he got the rig off the road & got out & away safely, their rig was totaled. We haven’t experienced anything like that, but we feel for them, will be 🙏🙏also
I saw that same video when it came out. Caught fire while he was driving down the road. They barely had time to get out. He didn't even have a pair of shoes.
We don't know. It started in the front where the engine is. Paul thinks it could be electrical.
That is our home base campground. We were there the same time and saw the after affects of the fire. So scary! I will be looking into fire suppression.
Yes, we will be doing the same. We love that campground, stayed there for a couple weeks, glad you know it, too.
It is so real!!! We had a light in an outside cabinet get turned on by shifting contents going down the road. The light heated up and started melting the tire covers in the cabinet amd the light cover itself. Fortunately, we had a short travel and opened that cabinet before it started a fire. We check the cabimets frequently and pack the cabinet so nothing can touch the light switch.
Wow, you, two! What a close call! I can't imagine. I just told Paul this and he's going to check our light to make sure it can't come on. Thanks for letting us and the RUclips world know!
I have a vintage 1972, 25', Airstream trailer. While the furnace is new, the water heater new several years ago and the other gas fueled appliances working properly, I always turn the individual appliances gas valves off and then turn the main gas valve on the tanks off whenever we go to sleep, leave the trailer for any length of time and when travelling.
Sure, it is a bit inconvenient having to relight a pilot or two, but it's certainly better than crawling out of the trailer... in your underwear...while illuminated by fire light!
You said it Tom. You have to put safety first always. The propane is turned off in the rig right now (cooking with an induction) and won't be turned on until it's time for the furnace. The heat pump will keep it warm till then. Thanks for your comment!
Great video, I learned a lot and will implement some changes! Thank y’all!
Us, too! We are going to add alerts in the storage bays for one.
As always, excellent video, thanks for all you do.
Aww, thank you! Be safe.
Added 2 more fire exstinguishers to our rig , my wife said how many do u need and i said hopefully none but it may save us if needed, also i did make sure they were rated for ABC, thanks for the video , and the advice
Yes, we are adding more, too. Gotta be safe. Thanks, Steve!
Great video full of important information. Thanks.
Thanks much Carole, be safe.
MY RV park neighbor had a old 90s camper, last August 17 it caught fire at 1 am, he didn't make it out, and my 5th wheel had several melted parts, and a warped front door, and other burn marks from the heat.
After I got the smell of burnt fiberglass out, I still have a home thank God.
I was within a couple of minutes of the flames hitting his propane tanks before the Fire Dept arrived. I have a 1994 Dutchmen Royal 5th wheel. I love it , and I dont want another, I want out of the living year round trailer Business all together. But its going to be a few years before I have enough saved to do so. Since our trailers are so close together, I bought 3 new large fire extinguishers, and gave 1 to me other neighbor.Anyhow, I am legitimately concerned about the fires caused by Refrigerator, short circuit, wall fire, whatever.
I have re done all my plugs so they are not overloaded. I did not think it would, but I am rattled to say the least, every time I look out my door I see his shell of a camper.
Which lead me to research a bit.
Oh my gosh. So very sorry. Your story sure gives a sobering view of RV life. Campers are often too close together and very much a fire hazard. Thank you for watching.
@@LizAmazing Ty as well
My refrigerator caught fire the day I bought the RV. Granted, mine is older and it was my first RV so when I was watching videos on how to turn everything on, I never expected there would be a mouse nest under the fridge that was right near the flame for the propane fridge. I had an extinguisher and put it out then removed it and put the same size fridge from a boat that runs 12v or 120v and no propane.
Wow! What a close call. Thanks for sharing your experience, Denny, and for watching. See you in my new video right here: ruclips.net/video/Hq5bW-tlg4w/видео.html
Every RV should have 3 x 3 fire extinguishers what I mean by that is one fire extinguisher by the driver one in the kitchen area and one in the bedroom area they should have all three rating A,B,C. To cover all types of homes that you may encounter. And make sure you update them as required there are instructions and a date on when this should be done
Wow 😮 So sad. Very happy they and the pets weren’t there. I can’t imagine watching my rig burn to the ground. I’m going to buy a propane detector for sure. Thanks!!
Thank you Gina! Yes, it had to have been a very tough day for the owners.
To late. All I did was turn on the fridge for the first time. Waited to see if it was working, didn't see or smell anything wrong/bad. 10 minutes later my neighbor knocked on the door and said my RV was on fire. Never got to use it once. Just glad it happened while my dogs and myself were at home and not on the road.
Oh no. How awful. So very sorry. Just learned about fire balls from a viewer. Perfect to put in the fridge compartment. Automatic fire extinguisher. I will add this to our Amazon store. Be safe and hope you get another rig sometime.
We bought a brand new Newmar Country Star in 2005. Afterwards there had been some recalls on fridges earlier than our camper (as we fondly refer to our motorhomes), as we found out later. We had the camper fully packed to leave early in the morning for a trip to Mexico. All our diving gear, etc., etc. Some time in the night I woke up for some reason and saw lights flashing on our wall. We live in the boonies and do not have curtains. Come to find out it was the fire department at our camper. My husband went running out just as the fire department was ready to break in the door. Turns out it was our Norcold fridge. We tried to file a claim with Norcold but they indicated that the year of our camper was not in the recall. Many years later we noticed that it was and so contacted Norcold again. They indicated that we had filed a claim years ago (2007) and it was declined so there was nothing we could do. We tried to argue that at the time of our fire our year of camper had not been on the recall list. Long story short, we didn't get anything out of the deal and we also had to continue to pay $21,000 for our camper after it was gone. Our insurance had replacement but it had to be a "like" vehicle. I couldn't do another motorhome because I was so afraid of just having the one exit up front and just knew that my buff husband with large arms and shoulders would not have fit through the exit window. So we sucked it up and paid for a camper we didn't even own. Worst experience ever. We got a toy hauler with two exits which made me more comfortable but after some years (2015) we bought another diesel pusher that had a residential fridge (no propane). But, again, what a learning experience. KNOW your insurance. UNDERSTAND your insurance!
Oh my gosh, Sheryl, what a sad story. Glad you continued with RV life on your terms. Very good tip about knowing and understanding your insurance. Thanks so much for your comment.
Great and vital information! The Travel Beans channel just lost their RV to a fire that started while they were driving it.
I heard about that. So sad.
I I'm quite proud of it it is the first prototype of Winnebago it's called trravco been around forever lol ?
Sounds nice. I have not heard of it.
We were on our way home yesterday and got into a slow down in TN just north of Nashville. A fifth wheel was completely burned up! They had a bad day. The tow vehicle was gone already.
Wowsa! We just learned there are something like 2000 RV fires every year. We hope our tips help save some lives. And that everyone got out OK at the fire you saw.
Liz
Look the pic of the fire closer, it looks like a person standing in the Entrance way .
Glad nobody got hurt
I just saw that. Scary. Thankfully no one was there. Hope this video helps prevent an RV fire, they sure go up fast!
Thanks for the video.
Thank you, Linda, stay safe.
Ironic how this video came out. Yesterday, while transferring water, I got a text from my neighbor, half mile, "I think our new neighbors trailer is on fire." I jumped in my truck, Charlotte called 911 along with our surrounding neighbors. The assumption was refrigerator fire. Unfortunately 2 dogs were in the trailer, by the time anyone got to it, it was too late. Total loss. The owner just went to town to pick up building materials. Folk! Service your refrigerator. A lot of build up and debris collect in the burn chamber.
Oh. My. Goodness. Scott & Charlotte, we are so sorry about your neighbors and heartbroken about their fur babies. Yes, RV fridge fires are far too common. Whew. Thanks for your comment. I hope it helps remind people.
anyone leaving a pet in the rv unit shd have automatic fire suppression systems IN PLACE as the poor dogs cannot save themselves.
Video said that their pets were with them. No lives lost. Hopefully that’s the case.
@@scrappersdream Yes that's true for the fire we talked about in the video. In this comment, unfortunately the pets did not survive in that fire.
That’s terrible. Makes me second guess leaving my dogs alone now even with extra precautions taken.
Wow, loved the point he made about extra alarms. Love you guys 💜💜
Hi Pam. Yep, we are going to add some in our lower storage after hearing Bob added some there. Thanks for watching and be safe.
In 2004 I witnessed my first RV fire, more of the wrong things were done (as listed in this video) than right. The unit was unoccupied at the time and the fridge caught fire. When I first saw it I thought it was the sun reflecting off the refrigerator panel, but I immediately realized it was the wrong time for that and the fridge panel on that unit was plastic. I shouted FIRE identified the unit and went for a phone (as did many others). More people went and got the fire under control with an extinguisher thanks to early detection, they also disconnected the propane and the electricity. By the time the fire department arrived, they only had to put out some smoldering and overhaul. We even had an RV tech in the park and he explained that the RV fridges (the type that can run on propane as the 12 volt compressor type weren't available yet) generate hydrogen and it was likely that the refrigerator's cooling unit sprung a leak.
Wow, how awful. So glad no one died. Yes, RV fridges are the culprit in many fires. We are going to get one of those fire ball prevention devices to put in the fridge compartment. Link to it in our store: www.amazon.com/shop/lizamazing
Excellent video!
Thank you much, Sarah! Be safe!
I had a rodent make a nest under the air cleaner when the motor home was in storage, which started a fire about 20 minutes after I started it. Lucky I had a fire extinguisher handy.
Wow, Ken, what a close call. Thanks for sharing this.
Glad the people and their pets are ok that was a big fire
It sure was. We are heartbroken for them.
Have in U-R Fire Alarm, Gas Dectors for propane, fire extinguishers.
Thank you
Thanks, Elaine, glad to have you with us. Stay safe.
Brings up a point. How to travel and keep your fridge cold? Propane or electric? We've been using our Propane while traveling. Don't really like it, but battery seems insufficient. Would love to hears thoughts on this.
We no longer have a propane fridge (residential fridge with inverter in our Class A now) but when we had a Class C we had a propane/electric fridge.
We never traveled with the propane on. Got the fridge good and cold and packed the freezer with frozen food and ice packs that could be refrozen in addition to ice in ice cube trays. We also added those re-freezable packs to the refrigerator section.
Frankly I had heard too many horror stories about propane fridge fires to trust leaving the propane on during travel.
We had little fridge and freezer thermometers in our Norcold unit and even after 3-4 hours of travel our food stayed frozen/cold and within a safe temperature range when we prepared our unit with the freezer packs.
It’s a personal choice. We have solar so our fridge runs on electric. But before then we were both comfortable with propane. The tanks will automatically shut off if the flow if the line gets cut.
@@LizAmazing ---we didn't feel comfortable traveling with the propane running but many do and do so without incident.
All depends on the individual, I guess!
EXCELLENT FIRE SAFTEY TIPS !!!!!
Thank you James!!!
We have the Waggle pet monitoring system in our RV. In theory it works well, but we've had several connectivity problems that required a call to Waggle customer service.
Question: Our on-board Hughes surge protector / booster is advertised that an external surge protector at the pedestal is not required. Do we need both?
That’s right. If you have one that is hardwired then you don’t need another one at the pedestal. Happy and safe travels to you, and thanks for the feedback on the pet monitoring system.
After seeing another class A fire I keep a "to go" bag right next to me while driving. Important papers, a change of clothes and always have my cat near by
That’s a good plan. Thanks Nan!
When you buy fire extinguishers make sure the pin is metal not plastic plastic warps when the vehicle or camper gets hot even the rubber o ring around the shaft can stick to it I had an old school bus I used for work one day while heading home after a job just as I was crossing a set of railway tracks it died right on the track first thought was was what's wrong at least with a standard transmission you can still get off the tracks but almost immediately smoke started pouring out from under the hood grabbing my extinguisher out the door I went grab the hood latch and opened it there was flames everywhere pulled the pin and squeezed the trigger and nothing as hard as I tried I couldn't get it to move I finally turned it upside down and slammed it on the road finally got it to set off and put out the fire if the pin had been plastic it would have snapped as it was I bent the aluminum pin the damage was minimal turned out the rubber gasline hoses that attached the inline fuel filter had cracked filling the top of the engine with gasoline eventually it started spraying and landing the fuel on the exhaust manifold before finally breaking when gas hits a hot manifold it's inevitable that it catches fire and with a half gallon or so on top of the motor it's a very hot fire which you have to get out quickly had to replace some wires and the spark plug wires as they were arcing badly but after replacing the hoses I was able to make it home and do the repairs afterwards I installed a second extinguisher by the back door so if you have an older motor home from before the year 2000 check your fuel lines and make sure that there are no rubber gasline hoses if there are any get quality gas line hose and replace them a lot of inline fuel filter are underneath the vehicle and don't assume that because your vehicle has plastic gas lines it's okay I had a Ford box van all the lines were plastic but one day sitting at a Red light the guy beside me rolled his window down and motioned for me to do the same I did and he said you've got something leaking under the vehicle so I pulled into the mall and checked it was pouring gas about mid way underneath the vehicle so I shut it off and crawled under to see where The leak was and right by the filter someone had added an electric fuel pump with rubber gasline hoses if it was a mechanic he shouldn't have a license as it was a terrible job over a foot of hose each side the go 2 inches the inlet side was kinked and cracked at the kink since it was pouring out before the pump I couldn't see a need for the pump as obviously the pump in the tank was working I hooked it up after removing the pump and it ran okay I also noticed that I'd lost half a tank of gas with all that gas on the underside of the unit if it had caught fire it would have burned up as I've gotten pretty lax at carrying a extinguisher I didn't have one
Goodness. Glad everything worked out ok and you weren't hurt. Thanks so much for the pointers!!!
First thing we did is upgrade to bigger fire extinguisher, the ones that come with the RV are just to small. In fact we have 3 maybe an over kill but I believe 1 is not enough.
That's a good idea. Thanks Jeff. Gotta be safe.
Another great topic. I was happy to help. You guys are the best!! ❤️
Thanks So Much Bob!
YOU are the best! So thankful you took the time to share such important tips. The knowledge you shared is certain to prevent RV fires and even to save lives. Thank you again so much!
Thank you Bob for sharing your expertise!
Question is how long did it take for my park model burn down...not long. Yes my but got burnt up.
Super fast. So sorry. Thanks for watching, Terry. Hugs to you.
What a sad and scary incident. Thank you for the fire prevention tips. Mary💕Fred
Hi Mary and Fred! Yes, it was so sad to see this. I still can't imagine what it must have been like to come home to that. Thanks for watching and commenting and be safe!
Very useful information thank you. it would be great to see you follow up with a prevention of how do we prevent having a fire in RV candles in my RV are out of the question I try to limit never having an open flame to do anything it’s just too risky. I am sure there’s some other good advice we could give people.
Hi Dave! Thank you, we do plan to do a follow up for sure. Stay tuned, and thanks for watching and commenting.
Thanks for sharing with us.
Thank you. It wasn't easy watching an RV burn- so fast!
Really appreciated! Thank you!
Thank you! Hugs to you!
So many of these tips are simple common sense.
Sadly there are 2000+ RV fires every year so more people need to know these fire prevention tips. Thanks for your comment, Lucy, and be safe!
Bit late to be giving out tips now when the horse has bolted. Best of luck to you.
And then a year later I saw yet another camper go up in flames in the campground. Sadly, it happens all too frequently. Thanks for watching and be safe.
I had a smoke alarm wake me up in the middle of the night in our house. It’s a terrible feeling to be awakened by that sound. What is it? Where is it coming from? When I opened the basement door it was rather bright down there. I grabbed a fire extinguisher and was able to put it out. Not an RV related story but a smoke alarm and a fire extinguisher saved our house and possibly our lives. Forty dollars worth of equipment made the difference. Be prepared!
Yes. So glad you were prepared. Fire safety and prevention is so important. Thanks Warren!
Thanks for sharing
Thank you, Barbara.Be safe
Thanks, Great information to have!
You're welcome, Sandy. We sure hope these RV fire prevention tips get followed by more and more people. We don't want to see a camper fire again.
Excellent Video thank you.
Thank you. Be safe!
Proteng fire suppression is a recommended product
I’ve heard that just the other day. Thanks for mentioning that. We will look into that.
Once again a great video. I wish fire extinguishers were cheaper. I wonder if a fire team is an hour out, how can a garden hose be maximized to prevent spread. Should the greenery around be soaked? Is a garden bose better than nothing. What does an lp tank or diesel tank do when ignited, or lithium batteries. LP fridges scare me, always have
Great questions! I would think you would not want to be anywhere near it because of possible explosions. Paul says, "I wish everything was cheaper."
Tinder boxes... Such an important topic...
Yep. Scary. We hope our RV fire prevention tips help raise awareness.
Great recommendations!!!
Thank you!!
sorry this question will be off content... I saw the video that you did when you were at Glacier National Park. I can't find it again, but can you tell me the name of the campground you stayed in? Thanks in advance. Love the channel
That was Lake Five, we loved it there. It is rustic with few amenities so keep that in mind.
Maintenance on Clothes Dryers.
Yep, and they say they don't want the old ones in the campgrounds due to "safety reasons" mmmm hmmmm I see now what they mean. These newer ones are exceptionally safe!
True that! This one could have been brand new for all we know. That said, we've only had one campground in 3.5 years of fulltime RVing ever ask us how old our rig is when making a reservation.
Sorry if I missed it but, what caused the fire in that motorhome? Also, in a previous video what caused your kitchen island to collapse in your 310GK 5th wheel? Thanks
We don’t know what caused the fire. We gave a thorough explanation of what happened with the island in that video. Thanks and be safe.
Awesome report guys (and gals) How cool that you located a fireman to bring it all together ❤ 😀 😄 😊 👍 😉 ❤
Yes! That was Paul’s idea to include a fireman who has an RV. We are pleased to share these RV fire prevention tips. We sure hope they help save a life!