Preparing Your RV Generator and Extension Cords for Natural Disasters

When natural disasters strike, it is usually quite unexpectedly, and these include hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, and floods. An RV might be one option when it comes to being prepared in terms of comfort and safety. A very important tool in your RV disaster preparedness kit is the generator, which can provide much-needed power when the electrical grid goes down. This article will deal with three important issues relating to RVs in disaster situations: the importance of a generator, how to effectively make use of an extension cord, and some of the major safety concerns.

Importance of Generators to RV Owners

Natural calamities always lead to power outages. A backup generator will save you, as you can run your essential appliances on it, charge gadgets, and make your RV livable. Some of the key reasons one must possess a generator are listed below:

1. Power for Essential Appliances

In case of an outage, it allows your generator to power essential appliances such as your refrigerator to stop food from going bad, heating or cooling systems that keep your home in a comfortable state, and most important, electric medical devices. This will maximize the level of comfort and may be quite helpful during the disaster.

2. Comfort and Convenience

Comfort is a priority when the lights go out. Generators can keep the lights on to make navigation around the RV safe and allow one to execute needed tasks inside. Just imagine attempting to cook food or organize supplies in absolute darkness; a reliable light source may make all the difference.

3. Communication

Knowledge is power during the crisis. Keeping your devices charged means being able to receive disaster updates, stay connected with family, and reach out to emergency services. Chargers for phones, tablets, and other communication devices can be powered by your generator to keep you connected to the outside world.

4. Cooking

Generators can power kitchen appliances like microwaves, coffee makers, and even small electric stoves. Where restaurants or grocery stores may be scarce, the use of being able to cook meals in your RV can be very valuable.

How to Choose the Right Generator

When choosing a generator for use with your RV, the following should be considered:

1. Power Output

Determine how much power you will need to run your basic appliances. You want a generator that is capable of both starting and running wattage. An example includes some appliances, like refrigerators, having different starting and operating wattages. A higher wattage is used to turn the appliance on than it is required to keep the appliance running.

2. Portability

Ease of transportation: make sure the generator can be transported with ease. You want wheels and handles on it so that you're able to move it around quickly and safely, should there be an emergency. Some are just compact and lightweight to begin with, which is ideal for RV use.

3. Noise Level

This may be an issue for you, depending on whether you'll be parked next to other RVs or in or near residential areas. A few generators run quieter than others; you may want to look into investing a little more in a sound-minimizing model for the sake of yourself and those around you.

4. Fuel Type

Generators can use gasoline, propane, or diesel. Each of these fuels has advantages and disadvantages. Gasoline is most available but may have a shorter life than propane, which can be stored longer. Choose a fuel type that is compatible with your needs and your local supplies.

Using Extension Cords Safely

Most of us have to use extension cords to connect your generator to your RV. The following are a few things to keep in mind for their safe and effective use:

1. Choosing the Proper Extension Cord

Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords to handle the power load. The wattage rating of the cord shall be equal to or greater than the generator output. A general rule of thumb, when using cords rated for a generator, is at least 20 percent higher than the rating on the generator's wattage to handle overheating.

2. Never Daisy Chain

Never connect several extension cords together. This creates overheating and the biggest chance for a fire to take place. Instead, use one long extension cord that will reach your RV from the generator.

3. Ground Your Generator

Ground your generator as instructed by your manufacturers. Poor grounding will result in electric shock. It is highly recommended, especially when an electric generator is used in wet or damp conditions.

4. Dry and Protect Cords

Also, avoid running extension cords across puddles or through locations that may cause them to get wet. If the use of cords in damp conditions cannot be avoided, consider using weatherproof covering to keep elements off them.

5. Observe the Use of Power

Be aware of how much load will be totally placed on the generator, as there might come a time when this will make the generator overload and cause some failures. Always check the wattage requirements of the appliances you intend to use and ensure that they fall within the capacity of your generator.

Safety Considerations during Natural Disaster

1. Ventilation

Always operate your generator outdoors, and away from windows and doors. Carbon monoxide is an invisible killer, and generators do generate harmful exhaust fumes. Place the generator in a well-ventilated area to avoid buildup of CO.

2. Keep Supplies on Hand

Before the disaster hits, make sure that you have adequate fuel for your generator and some extension cords. Store fuel in an approved container safely, and always keep additional fuel on hand during possible prolonged situations.

3. Make an Emergency Plan

Have a plan in case of a disaster. This will include knowing the evacuation routes, having ready emergency supplies—food, water, first-aid kits—and making sure everyone in one's household knows the plan.

4. Stay Tuned

Keep a battery-powered radio or use your smartphone to receive the latest updates about the weather and emergency notifications. This can help you make the right decision as fast as possible during a crisis.

5. Practice Safety with Your RV

In case you need to evacuate, make sure your RV is road-ready and prepared to go. The secret to maintaining an always-ready RV is through a series of maintenance checks, which will help avoid problems from setting in right at the worst possible moment in time. Make sure all the tires, brakes, and lights are good to go before embarking on a journey.

Conclusion

Natural disasters are often unpredictable; however, being prepared makes a difference. For RVers, when the time comes and they finally need to put their generator and proper extension cords into action in some real-life situations, it's quite important. Knowing how important generators are in general will also help you make your choice of equipment and follow safety protocols that ensure your RV is a haven in bad situations. Be prepared, be safe, and enjoy your RV during any disaster situation.