You spent a few days getting your RV all cleaned up and ready to go for the season, but have you done anything to ensure that your family will be safe from carbon monoxide poisoning while you travel, camp and sleep? Carbon monoxide is a real threat in RVs and inspections and preparations should never be put to the wayside as you prepare for your next RV adventure. Here, you will learn a few tips to help you identify carbon monoxide problems and to protect your family from this silent killer.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Two carbon monoxide detectors should be used in your RV. Having two in such a small space may seem like overkill, but having one on each end of the RV will alert you at the first sign of danger. Look for units that plug into an outlet and have a battery back-up built in. This will make it possible to keep the detectors operational throughout the entire adventure whether you have power or not.

Watch the Flames

The flames on your stove burners can tell you a lot about the quality of air in the RV. The flames should be a beautiful shade of blue – if the flames are more yellow than blue, you need to increase the oxygen level in the RV – the cabin is becoming filled with so much carbon monoxide that even the flames are choking.

Ventilate Properly

The roof vents are meant as a form of ventilation for the RV. Anytime you are parked with the generator running, these vents should be opened, at least slightly.

When you park the RV, make sure that there is enough clear space behind it for the exhaust fumes to dissipate and not get forced back into the RV. Five or six feet of clearance should be adequate.

Be aware of the other RVs around you. You don't want their exhaust filling your RV. If there is an issue, try to adjust the location of your RV or talk with the campground administrators for assistance.

Maintenance

Don't skip the inspection and maintenance each spring. You should have the gas appliances, the exhaust and the generator inspected and maintained each year. These are the top sources of carbon monoxide that should be checked out by a professional for any potential issues before you head out on the first trip of the year.

Your family's health and safety depends on you knowing about the dangers of carbon monoxide and taking the initiative to prevent the leaks into the RV. These tips can help you and your family avoid the tragedies that can occur when carbon monoxide fills your RV during your outing. For more information and inspection tips, contact a company like Auto-Truck Services Inc.

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