Do's and Don'ts

Using common sense seems to be the most frequently heard expression when discussing safety for women who go solo in their motorhomes.  Those interviewed for this article provided the following suggestions for smooth and safe RVing:

1. Don't panic.  When a mishap does occur, and there are bound to be some along the way, remember it's temporary.  Help is available  It may not be immediate, but come this time tomorrow, your mishap will be an interesting adventure to share around the campfire some evening down the road.
2. Sign up for an RV road service.  Prices are competitive, and all of them offer essentially the same service.  It's something you hope you'll never need, but having an emergency service is the best insurance you can buy.
3. Purchase a cellular telephone.  Having a cellular phone that is used only for emergencies is within the financial reach of nearly everyone.  Unless you have a means of communication, the best RV road service can't help you.
4. Although a citizens band (CB) radio won't take the place of a cellular telephone in an emergency situation, having one on board is a good idea.  If you see threatening clouds on the horizon, you can ask an approaching trucker about the weather or road conditions ahead.  If you're caravaning, a CB is a must to stay in touch with fellow RVers.  However, a CB is not recommended for summoning assistance; you never know who might be monitoring your call.
5. Buy a reliable coach and keep it in good running condition.  Preventive maintenance can save a lot of agony.  Make contact with a dependable mechanic near your home base (if you have one), and ask what you should do to keep your coach in top running condition.
6. Leave vital information about your motorhome (type, size, color, brand, year, license number) with a reliable relative or friend.  If someone needs to get in touch with you, having this information can help law-enforcement agencies locate you.  It also is a good idea to let someone know where you will be traveling.  In addition, keep the name and number of an emergency contact prominently displayed in your motorhome.
7. Subscribe to a telephone message service.  Being able to leave and receive messages lets you in touch with your family and saves frequent and costly telephone calls.
8. Don't drive beyond your endurance.  Most RVers travel at a more leisurely pace than when they were on a two-week auto vacation.  Stop often to enjoy the scenery and stretch your legs.  Don't set unreasonable travel goals.
9. Be careful where you stop.  There was a time when RVers could feel safe almost anywhere, but that is no longer true.  A short stop at a rest area during daylight hours usually is safe, but never use a rest area after dark, and do not stay overnight in a rest area.  Try to plan your trip so you can arrive at your destination by late afternoon; there is no safer place to park your motorhome than an RV park.
10. When people see a motorhome, they almost always assume there is a couple on board. You can perpetuate this assumption by putting a man's hat in plain view on the dashboard.  A lifesize figure called Safety Man, when place in the passenger seat, makes a good companion.
11. Many RVers travel with dogs, both for protection and for company.  While a canine companion isn't for everyone, even a small dog can alert you that there is someone around your coach, which can be comforting.
12. Whether or not to carry a gun is a personal decision, but if you do, make sure you are familiar with your weapon and know how to use it.  Be advised there are states and neighboring countries with restrictions on what type (if any) gun you can possess and transport.
13. Another means of protection is a chemical spray, such as Freeze+P, which temporarily incapacities an attacker at close range.  Some sprays come in small, easy-to-use containers that fit on a sun visor or a key chain.  Like guns, these weapons require being knowledgeable about their use, and some require permits.