The Hartford

During a disaster, your RV can provide a means of evacuation and a temporary home if you can't get back into your house for several days. It's important that you prepare your RV in advance when possible so you can evacuate quickly if needed.

Decide where you will go in advance

• Choose a safe location outside of the potential disaster zone. Have a back up location in case your first choice isn't available.
• Make sure you can remain at your destination for a few days if necessary.

Pack the RV with enough supplies for several days

• Clean, disinfect and fill your fresh water tank.  Supplement your water supply by buying and storing extra drinking water in your RV.
• Stock up on non-perishable food that is easy to cook. Make sure you include snacks if possible dried fruits, nuts, chips and other snack food can help keep hunger at bay, especially for kids.
• Pack clothes and extra bedding or sleeping bags.  Don't forget personal toiletries or medications and prescriptions.
• Create an emergency kit with first aid supplies, flashlights, radios, extra batteries and tools to take with you.

Prepare the RV to be used as an evacuation vehicle and temporary home

• Fill your fuel tank and make sure your RV battery(ies) is in working condition. If your existing battery won't retain a charge and you're not sure how reliable it is, buy a back up or second battery.
• Empty your black and grey tanks and make sure they are clean. Create a plan for minimizing water usage while you're living in your RV.  You don't know when you'll have a chance to empty the tanks again-and you don't want to use up all of your water either.
• If you have a generator, make sure it works.  Be sure to have plenty of fuel for the generator.
• Fill your propane tank and buy an extra tank just in case you need it.
• Take along some books or games, especially if you have kids. This will help pass the time and ease the anxiety of the situation.

If you're facing a disaster situation where you won't be able to take your RV with you, having a plan in place for your vehicle will help minimize damage and loss.

Research where you might leave your RV for safekeeping in case of a disaster

• Park your RV on higher ground, in a secure garage or building, depending on the type of disaster you're facing. 

Have an appropriate insurance policy in place before a disaster strikes

• Make sure you keep a copy of your insurance card and vehicle registration in a safe place so you can easily access them later.

Take steps to minimize further damage to your vehicle after the disaster

• Move your RV to a secure, sheltered place as soon as possible. If you can't move your RV right away, cover any broken windows and remove water from the inside to help minimize the damage.  You can purchase RV covers from a RV dealer or a RV accessory store.

Keep all your receipts from repairs, car rentals and towing.

• Store these in a safe and easily-accessible place. You will need these when you file your claim.