RV/Motorhome Safety & Education Foundation
Pre-Trip Safety Checklist
Before Every Trip
1. Engine Compartment
- Fluid levels – oil, engine coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, any specific fluids i.e.
hydraulic
- Belts – check for cracks or loose fitting
- Check for leaks in, around, and under the engine.
- Check for debris lodged in or around engine components i.e. leaves
- Check radiator for debris and damaged coils
- Check all hoses for cracks, leaks, and tight fit
- Check battery if applicable to engine compartment for fluid, corrosion, and tight
connection
- Diesel engines
- Check air filter indicator
- Air tank moisture
2. Tires – check cold, 3 hours without usage
- Sidewall cracks
- Tread depth – 4/32 steering tires, 2/32 others
- Rims/bead for damage
- Valve stem, cap, and extensions
- Proper air pressure
3. External Lights
- Headlights
- Fog lights
- Clearance lights
- Driving lights if applicable
- Parking lights
- Turn signals front, back, and side
- Docking lights
- Tail lights/brake lights
- Emergency flashers
- Reflectors
4. Glass
- Mirrors – check to ensure they are secure, clean, and adjusted properly/working for
electric
- Windshield – clean inside and out, check for cracks or rock chips
- Clean all brake lights, turn signals, backup lights, and headlamps
- Windshield wipers – ensure they are working, good blades, and fluid
5. Exterior Walk Around
- Awnings – retracted and locked
- Slides – retracted and secured
- Jacks – retracted
- Hookups – disconnected, stowed, and compartment secured
- Compartments – all items stowed, secured, lights off, compartments shut, and locked
- Visual Inspection Under Coach
- Check for loose items i.e. lawn chairs
- Check for rocks, logs, or large items
- Look for any fluid leaks
Check chassis for loose equipment or wiring
- Height – look for any possible obstruction while leaving
- Noises – with the engine running, check for unusual noises
- Shut of propane at the tank
- House Battery – check fluid level, corrosion, and connection
- Electric Step
6. Towed Vehicle
- Tow bar connection – check connection at the motorhome, at the vehicle, and safety
chains
- Lights – ensure proper turn signals, brake lights, and emergency flashers
- Tire pressure – ensure proper inflation, sidewall condition, tread depth
- Proper towing procedure – i.e. unit is in neutral, fuses removed etc
- Emergency brake – disengaged
- Auxiliary braking system – unit is operating properly
- Lock the doors
7. Interior Walk Around
- TV antenna – retracted
- Secure all loose items inside the unit
- Close all doors and cabinet drawers
- Verify driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance
- Check First Aid Kits, fire extinguishers, smoke and CO alarms
- Emergency Information – prepare a list of emergency phone numbers, personal
information i.e. contact person, medication and dosage
8. Buckle Up!