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Issue 881 • Week of January 26 – February 1, 2019
Editor’s corner
With Chuck Woodbury | Chuck (at) RVtravel.com
Along-time friend of mine almost died last week. Some good luck and quick action by good Samaritans saved him. But the outcome could easily have gone the other way.
My friend Dick Schmidt was boarding a plane from Honolulu to Sacramento when he suddenly felt dizzy and then collapsed – a heart attack. He stopped breathing.
Here, according to his partner Jan Haag, is what happened next:
“A man who’d been in line to board the plane appeared at my side. ‘I’m a nurse,’ said Claudio Alvarado. ‘Let me help.’ [He] checked for a pulse and then began chest compressions on Dick.
“A woman came out of the line saying that she was a nurse, too, and she and Claudio worked on Dick together. Shortly thereafter, the EMTs arrived and so did a small, portable machine with pads and wires that were hooked up to Dick’s chest. Someone called ‘Clear!’ and the machine delivered a great shock to Dick’s fluttering heart. It brought him back to life within a couple of minutes.”
THAT MACHINE WAS AN A.E.D., an automated external defibrillator. They are available in many airports and other public places. My family has a history of heart disease, so I purchased one of my own just in case. Most models cost about $1,300. I got my Philips HeartStart Home Defibrillator at Amazon.
After learning about Dick’s experience, I asked myself, “What if he had been in an RV park instead of an airport? What are the chances the park would have had an A.E.D. machine?” From my observations, pretty darn slim. I can’t recall a park where I’ve stayed that was equipped with one. And keep in mind that many campgrounds and RV parks are in rural areas, a half hour or more away from emergency aid. I suspect for most people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, that’s too long.
Gail and I have placed an A.E.D. decal on our RV, and now inform the clerks at RV parks where we stay that we have the device in case it’s needed. While I hope the machine is never necessary to save our lives it would give us both deep satisfaction to be able to save a life in a rural campground or RV park by having our defibrillator handy. And, by the way, they are very easy to use.
Mike Sokol and I frequently talk about the need for RV parks to be equipped with A.E.D.s. We plan to arrange demonstrations of the devices at rallies where we participate. We have urged readers of this newsletter to ask at parks where they stay if there’s an A.E.D. on the premises. If not, we hope those readers will strongly urge the parks to get one.
Let’s start a directory of RV parks where A.E.D.s are available. If you know of such a park, please let us know by emailing us at editor@rvtravel.com. We’ll list them on a special page on this website.
Another RV Electricity Newsletter is coming tomorrow. You should sign up to receive it. What you learn could save you from blowing up your RV, your RV appliances or even hurting yourself. Sign up here.
My conversation on the radio last week
I spent a full hour with Alan Warren last week on his syndicated radio program, The RV Show USA. You can listen to highlights of our conversation below. For those of you with bandwidth limitations, this audio file doesn’t take much.
My Roadside Journal
(about whatever is on my mind, not necessarily RV-related)
I’m a snoop, but that’s okay.- The night I met Fats Domino.
- How a pig almost sent the USA and Britain to war.
- Archives
Readers speak out
Help us serve you better! Become a member-reader
The staff of RVtravel.com work hard to bring you honest, unbiased, valuable newsletters more than 270 days a year. Readers help make it possible by becoming member-readers with their “voluntary subscriptions.” Even a pledge of $5, $10 or $20 a year is appreciated! Many readers set up an ongoing membership, most $5 to $10 a month. But even a one-time contribution of $10 or $20 helps make it possible for us to write about important matters, not just fluff to please advertisers and RV industry big shots.
Breaking News
National Park Service comments on temporary end to shutdown
Statement from the National Park Service, late afternoon January 25, 2019 — Following the enactment of the ending of the federal government shutdown, the National Park Service is preparing to resume regular operations nationwide though the schedule for individual parks may vary depending on staff size and complexity of operations. Many parks which have been accessible throughout the lapse in appropriations remain accessible with basic services. Read more.
RV shipments dive in December
Perhaps the bubble is about to burst. The RV Industry Association’s (RVIA) December survey of manufacturers found that total RV shipments finished the month with 28,363 wholesale shipments, a decrease of 21.7% from the 36,227 units shipped last December. Motorhome shipments ended December down 32.7% Learn more.
That was the RV week that was
The latest news about RVing from our newsroom
IMPORTANT STORIES:
• Average selling prices for used RVs goes up.
• RV park reinvents itself as a “wellness community.”
• Some Florida RV parks remain closed from hurricane damage.
. . . and much more.
RV industry executive talks about lack of campgrounds
In this video from RV PRO Magazine with the Vice-President of Marketing and Communications for the RV Industry Association (RVIA), James Ashurst discusses ways the organization is working with the federal government. If you are interested in the workings of the RV industry, here’s an overview of what’s going on from the RVIA’s head PR man. Watch the video.
RV has rooftop swimming pool
It’s true, this travel trailer has a rooftop swimming pool. For those RVers who refuse to swim in lakes or rivers or, heaven forbid, public pools, maybe this is the solution. But there’s one problem. You may have a tough time finding a model like this at your local RV dealer. Find out here.
Another RV Horror Story
Here is another posting from our Facebook group RV Horror Stories, which we formed to allow RVers with defective RVs to share their experiences. Member Cathi Claiborne Peters posted this story about her new 2018 Forest River Leprechaun. By the way, this is not an isolated incident. Similar tales are posted almost every day. Read more.
Lippert Components files lawsuit against its former president
Lippert Components, Inc., a leading supplier of components to the RV industry, has filed a lawsuit in Indiana’s Elkhart County against its former president Scott Mereness. The complaint alleges that Mereness used LCI’s confidential information to usurp a corporate opportunity. Read more.
Reader Poll
What would you do if you found $1,000 in an unmarked paper bag?
Please let us know. After you click your response, you’ll see how others have responded. Feel free to leave a comment. We’ll post the final results in next week’s newsletter. CLICK HERE.
What we learned about you last week
Did you buy a tow vehicle to tow, or pull behind your RV? How many miles are on your RV (surprisingly not a lot!)? Would you buy an RV online without seeing it in person? You might be surprised at the response. Where did you grow up? Do you smoke, and if so, what? All this and more, right here.
Is this the longest fifth wheel trailer?
Wow! How you’d like to tow this monster down the highway? No tight turns for you, that’s for sure. But, hold on … Is this for real? We’ll tell you if you just click here.
Watch a Coachmen Class B motorhome being built
James and Stef of The Fit RV get a special tour of the Coachmen Class B motorhome factory in Middlebury, Indiana. In this 22-minute video, see the step-by-step process of building the compact RV. Watch the fascinating video.
Nevada museum commemorates the West’s “Lost City”
Len Wilcox has a story for you about a once-thriving Native American city that is gone forever, never to be seen again. Thankfully, many remnants were saved before it disappeared, and you can see them at an out-of-the-way museum in the Silver State. Read more or hear Len tell the story of this lost civilization.
The Roadtrek/Hymer scandal. An update
The following article was posted Jan. 21 by Mike Wendland on the website Roadtreking that he produces with his wife, Jennifer. “I have promised an update on the scandal and disturbing news about financial irregularities swirling around Roadtrek motorhome’s corporate parent, the Erwin Hymer Group of North America. Here’s what we now know.” Learn more about this “huge development.”
Summer campground positions open in South Dakota parks
The deadline is fast approaching to apply for summer employment with the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP). State park positions include general maintenance, entrance station attendant, maintenance worker, campground attendant, law enforcement, heavy equipment operator and naturalist plus seasonal work camper positions. Learn more.
Why you should not refill disposable propane cylinders, with an exception
Some 40 million one-pound disposable propane cylinders are sold each year in the USA. National park visitors often just leave them in a dumpster – which in 2014 amounted to 23,000 of the little metal cylinders at Yosemite National Park alone, costing more than a $1 each for proper disposal. So why not refill the smaller cylinders? There are several good reasons.
How to heat your massive space efficiently
Last week Rich “The Wanderman” wrote about lighting his new 24′ x 22′ x 12′ fabric hangar. Next he needed to figure out how to heat up that big space – when it was 19 degrees outside! He did a lot of research and found that the best way to do it is with a kerosene forced air heater. Learn more.
Cross an Airstream with a submarine: Eriba Touring 820 trailer
It may be the Airstream trailer of the European continent – the Eriba line has been in the marketplace for more than 60 years, and is releasing its new 28-foot Touring 820 travel trailer this spring. Find out what Russ and Tiña De Maris think about this new trailer that looks like an Airstream combined with a submarine. Read more.
Suburban announces new line of six-gallon RV water heaters
Suburban has announced a new line of six-gallon RV water heaters for the aftermarket designed for new water heater installations and to replace existing water heater models with aluminum storage tanks. With 10,000 BTU/h of LP gas, the heater provides a fast recovery time which, combined with the optional 120 VAC 1440 W Incoloy electric element, make the recovery rate faster. Learn more.
Popular articles from last week’s issue
• Good Sam Club, Rest In Peace. (Most popular topic, 2nd week in a row)
• Did you buy a special vehicle to tow your RV or to tow behind it? (Lots of comments.)
• Time running out on Malia’s terminal cancer battle.
• Foretravel debuts downsized luxury diesel motorhome.
• What we learned about you last week (January 12–18).
• Forget insect repellent: Just paint yourself with stripes!
• Potential problems with plastic bypass valves.
• Exploring the country in an RV is not a “road race.”
NEW EDITION FOR 2019
Never take a wrong exit off an Interstate. The 2019 Next Exit lists every exit along every Interstate and lists what you’ll find: gas stations (including those with diesel), campgrounds, truck stops, casinos, retail stores (by name), malls, factory outlets, drug stores, hospitals, rest areas & more. Very helpful even if you have a GPS. Learn more or order.
Resources
RV Clubs
Check out our Directory of RV Clubs and Organizations.
RV Tours
Prefer to travel with a group of RVers? There are plenty of great RV trips to choose from. Here are a few.
Where to complain about bad RVs, dealers, service, RV parks. This is an ever-expanding list of resources where you can report, share or discuss your problems with RV manufacturers or dealers.
The RV Show USA
Listen each Wednesday evening on Facebook or YouTube for the live taping of America’s only syndicated radio program about RVing. Sponsored by Cheyenne Camping Center and PPL Motorhomes.
Did you buy a lemon RV? Here’s more about RV lemons and lawyers who will represent you if you need help.
What does financing an RV for 20 years REALLY mean?
In case you missed this article the first time around, here it is again. Important! Click here.
If you shop at Amazon, would you use one of the links below to do your shopping? The link in the blue bar above also works. Thanks.
U.S. shoppers: Shop at Amazon.com
Canadian shoppers: Shop at Amazon.ca
Ask the RV Shrink
Couple can’t agree on public or private campgrounds
We have been traveling for almost nine months. We bought a fifth-wheel, a new truck and all the toys. We plan to travel for several years and look for some special place to spend winters, once we have seen all the sights. The problem is campground choice. I like to stay in commercial campgrounds with all the amenities and my husband likes to rough it in remote scenic campgrounds. …
Read the rest of the question and the RV Shrink’s advice.
Can’t get enough of the Shrink? Read his e-books, including the brand-new Book 2 in his two-book series: Dr. R.V. Shrink: Everything you ever wanted to know about the RV Lifestyle but were afraid to ask or check out his other e-books.
Essential for big RVs!
2019 Rand McNally Motor Carriers’ Road Atlas
If you drive a big RV — extra long or extra tall — then this truck driver’s road atlas will be a huge help in knowing where you can drive without encountering a low bridge or getting stuck hanging over a cliff. This is an essential aid even if you have a GPS! Coverage: United States, Canada, and Mexico. Learn more or order.
Latest fuel prices
Here are the latest U.S. average prices per gallon of gasoline and diesel fuel as of January 21, 2019:
Regular unleaded gasoline: $2.25. [Calif.: $3.15]
Change from week before: No change; Change from year before: Down 32 cents.
Diesel: $2.97. [Calif.: $3.74]
Change from week before: Down 1 cent; Change from year before: Down 6 cents.
RV Fire Safety Tip
An emergency fire plan that can save your life – Part 13 of 13
Having a solid fire escape plan may help you replace panic with logical, life-saving actions if a fire occurs. Knowing exactly what to do and doing it quickly can make a big difference in an emergency situation.
Hopefully, you’ll never have to put your fire plan into action. However, if you do, remember to keep calm and to get out of your coach like you practiced during fire drills. Stay focused on your prime objective – getting yourself and your passengers out of the RV safely.
If you missed any parts of this emergency fire plan series, or need a refresher course, you can read the important tips here.
Courtesy: Mac “The Fire Guy” McCoy
Protect your RV “pigtail”
That 7-way connector on your travel trailer or fifth wheel is a critical component. When not plugged into your tow rig, the thing is susceptible to the onslaught of dirt, rain and even bugs. This plug cover slips right over your plug and keeps out the crud. Learn more or order.
RV Quick Tips
Keep the land pristine when boondocking
New to boondocking? Nina and Paul from the wheelingit blog have good thoughts for those starting out. Here’s one: “Use existing roads and existing camping spots. If you ask around at any Wildlife, BLM or National Forest office they will all tell you exactly the same thing. We all want to enjoy the wilds, but ultimately the goal is to have as little impact as possible and the best way to do that is to stay on designated roads and park in an area that’s clearly been used before.
“Personally, I consider it a total no-no to drive into pristine country and smash around vegetation to ‘create’ a spot to camp. Some places (e.g., Quartzsite) are so barren/rocky and have so many previously used spots you can camp just about anywhere, but other areas are fragile and less used. In those areas, you really risk permanently damaging the very nature you’ve come to see. Previously used spots are pretty obvious and will typically have a cleared-out area and often a fire ring or other such structure to identify them. Park in the cleared-out area, use the existing fire ring and, of course, make sure the ground is firm enough to carry your weight (ideally before you drive in there).”
Hot water vents and children
Show your children where the water heater and furnace vents are located and explain to them how hot they get. Keep children away from these vents – they can cause serious burns and injuries. Don’t allow children to turn any hot water faucets on. Hot water temperatures can be extremely high if not set properly. Tip from Mark Polk, RV Education 101
Do you have a Quick Tip? Send it to Russ (at) RVtravel.com
Secrets of RVing on Social Security
Author Jerry Minchey explains how you can travel around the country and live the fascinating RV lifestyle for far less than it costs to live in a sticks-and-bricks home. Among other things, he shows you step-by-step how to enjoy the RVing lifestyle on just your Social Security income. Learn more or order.
Work Camping
The business of work camping – What if the campground changes its mind on your arrival?
What happens when you pull into the campground and the owner/manager tells you to find a site, get comfortable for a few days then see them in the office, only to find out that they have changed what had been agreed upon? It happens. So what can you do? Find out here.
Amazon Deals of the Day!
Here are more than 1,000 special deals, just for today. And the items just keep on changing. If you can’t find a great deal here on something you want, then, well, you must not need anything. If nothing else, it sure is fun to poke around here to see the incredible array of cool stuff that’s available today at bargain prices! Click here for today’s deals!
Ask the RV Doctor
The RV Doctor, Gary Bunzer, answers your questions
Keeping RV water lines from freezing during cold winter use
Dear Gary,
We have a Class C motorhome. We have used it quite often this winter and have resisted winterizing it because we use the shower and toilet and such. I have heated it through the winter so far without any problems, but during a recent cold snap the bathroom plumbing froze. I believe the problem is where the water lines run under the floor to the opposite side of the cabin. Interior heat, I suspect, was not enough to keep the lines from freezing under the floor. …
Read the rest of the question and Gary’s response.
Read more from Gary Bunzer at the RVdoctor.com. See Gary’s videos about RV repair and maintenance.
Maintain those slide seals!
If you’ve heard a cracking or popping sound when extending your slide outs, it means your seals are sticking and/or drying out! Using a seal conditioner about every 8-12 weeks is recommended to avoid drying and cracking. Once they begin to wear and show damage, they are no longer working to their fullest capacity. We recommend using Thetford Premium RV Slide Out Rubber Seal Conditioner – it works like a charm.
Ask BoondockBob
with Bob Difley
Your RV plumbing: Shake, rattle and roll!
One major way our RVs differ from our stick houses is the ability to drive them down the highways to a new location. But that also leads to potential problems that you ordinarily don’t have to worry about with your stick house — unless there is an earthquake — and that’s shake, rattle and roll. The rigidity of your RV bouncing down the road applies considerable tension to every fitting in your RV — all the screws, nails, bolts, shelf mounts and plumbing joints. …
Read Bob’s advice on checking for leaks.
You can find Bob Difley’s e-books on Amazon Kindle.
Mini dehumidifier removes moisture from RV
This mini dehumidifier from Pro Breeze quickly and efficiently removes moisture from the air. It is perfect for use in small areas like RVs. It extracts up to 9 ounces of moisture per day with a large 16-ounce capacity water tank that will automatically shut off when full. Very quiet, too. Learn more or order.
RV Electricity
with Mike Sokol
What’s up with upside-down outlets?
Dear Mike,
I’ve encountered quite a few 15-amp outlets that were “upside down” with the ground at the top instead of the bottom. And it seems like this same upside-down orientation is what’s needed to plug in my shore power plug without it sticking up in the air. So is there a right or wrong way for outlets to be installed in your home? And is there a right or wrong way for pedestals to be installed at a campground? —Dizzy in Denver
Mike Sokol is an electrical and professional sound expert with 40 years in the industry. His excellent book RV Electrical Safety is available at Amazon.com. For more info on Mike’s qualifications as an electrical expert, click here.
Keep the mud outside!
We saw the Mudbuster in action and were impressed – why doesn’t everyone have one of these? If Fido is always playing outside and bringing the mud inside, say no more. Simply fill the Mudbuster with water, dip your dog’s paws in one at a time, and voila! They come out clean as a whistle. No more paper towels or wet-wipe waste. Learn more or order.
RV Tire Safety
with RV tire expert Roger Marble
Can a TPMS provide advance warning of a belt/tread separation?
Roger read the following on a forum where they were discussing the advantages of having a TPMS: “… [I]f there is something happening to the tire like tread separation which could lead to a blowout the temp likely would be going up and the alarm would sound and show temp compared to other tires….” Roger says, “Au contraire.” Well, not quite, but you can read his response here.
Don’t toss away good batteries!
Most RVers rely on battery-powered devices, whether flashlights, radios or cameras. But sometimes you just can’t tell how much battery life remains so you toss it. This inexpensive tester will alert you to the condition of a battery, saving you money from needlessly tossing still-good ones away! Works on AA, AAA, C, D, 9V and button-type batteries. Learn more or order.
The RV Kitchen
with Janet Groene
Coffee Coffee Cake
Coffee cake with a coffee kick. No tiresome beating nor electric mixer needed. Just use a whisk to make this super-moist, flavorful, simple coffee cake in minutes. There’s no frosting to fuss with, so it’s easy to transport to the campground kaffeeklatsch or potluck. Get the recipe.
Check out hundreds of other recipes by Janet . . . and her many books at Amazon.com, including “The Survival Food Handbook.”
RV Short Stop
with Julianne G. Crane
Tucson – “Southern Arizona’s Cultural Oasis”
Each winter RV Snowbirds from cold locations flock to southern Arizona for warm temperatures, arid days and incredible landscapes. Tucson offers countless fun and low-cost cultural activities that entice thousands of visitors. The city’s vibrant artistic mix includes exceptional museums, inspiring galleries, mesmerizing street murals and lively music. Learn more.
2019 guide to Firearm Laws now available
If you travel with a firearm, you need this to avoid breaking state laws. This details the firearm laws of all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, and how to prepare, carry and transport your weapons. What’s legal in one state may be a felony in another! Essential for RVers who cross state lines. Learn more or order.
Facebook Groups about RVing
• Outdoor Education Jobs
• The Facebook Campfire
• Florida RV Camping
PLUS OUR OWN GROUPS: RV Horror Stories & RV Advice
Free and bargain camping
From OvernightRVparking.com
Cracker Barrel # 90, Murfreesboro, TN
FREE! Overnight parking is allowed for one night. Lot is level, well-lit, safe, but there is likely some traffic noise from I-24. No marked bus/RV spaces at this location, so park where directed by Manager. More details on this location here.
Walmart Store, #3120, Woodstock, ON
FREE! Overnight parking is allowed, but permission from the store is required. Well-lit, but not level. Park near the outer perimeter of lot. Lot is quiet with no apparent security issues. More details on this location here.
Overnight RV Parking, with more than 13,480 locations listed, is the largest and best resource for locating free and inexpensive places to spend a night in an RV. For membership information and a demo of the site, click here. Watch a video about OvernightRVparking.com.
New & interesting finds at Amazon.com
See what really cool stuff Amazon is featuring today. It’s a whole lot of fun just browsing through all these great items. The selection changes every day, so check back often. You never know what you will find, which is part of the fun of visiting here. Check it out.
Upcoming RV Shows
• Quartzsite RV Show, Now thru Jan. 27, Quartzsite, AZ
• Pittsburgh RV Show, Now thru Jan. 27, Pittsburgh PA
• Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow, Now thru Jan. 27, Louisville, KY
• Inland Northwest RV Show & Sale, Now thru Jan. 27, Spokane, WA
• Cincinnati-Dayton RV Show, Now thru Jan. 27, Dayton, OH
• Atlanta Camping & RV Show, Now thru Jan. 27, Atlanta, GA
• Huntington RV and Boat Show, Now thru Jan. 27, Huntington, WV
• Northeast RV & Camping Show, Now thru Jan. 27, Hartford, CT
• Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show, January 31 – February 3, Fort Wayne, IN
• Detroit RV & Camping Show, February 6-10, Novi, MI
• Colorado Springs RV & Outdoor Show, February 7-9, Colorado Springs, CO
• Seattle RV Show, February 7-10, Seattle, WA. Visit website
• Chicago RV & Camping Show, February 7-10, Rosemont, IL
• Jacksonville RV MegaShow, February 7-10, Jacksonville, FL
• Minneapolis/St. Paul RV, Vacation & Camping Show, February 7-10, Minneapolis, MN
• Salem Spring RV Show, February 7-10, Salem, OR
• Richmond Camping RV Expo, February 8-10, Richmond, VA
• Ottawa RV Expo and Sale, February 8-10, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• OKC RV Super Show, February 14-17, Oklahoma City, OK
• Utah Sportsman, Vacation & RV Show, February 14-17, Sandy, UT
• Arkansas RV Show, February 15-17, Little Rock, AR
• Atlantic City RV & Camping Show, February 15-17, Atlantic City, NJ
• Chattanooga RV Show, February 15-17, Chattanooga, TN
• Topeka RV & Sport Show, February 15-17, Topeka, KS
• Northeast RV Show, February 15-18, Suffern, NY
• Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show, February 15-24, Indianapolis, IN
• Maryland RV Show, February 15-24, Timonium MD
See the complete list of upcoming RV shows.
Microwave cover collapses for easy storage
When heating your food you don’t want to spend 10 minutes later cleaning the splatters inside the microwave. Here’s the solution — and perfect for RVers: it pops down flat for easy storage. Lid perforations allow steam to escape to keep food moist. Doubles as a strainer, too! Learn more or order at Amazon.com
Trivia
The letters M&M in those tasty candies stand for the founders of M&M: Forrest E. Mars Sr. and Bruce Murrie.
NEW: Stupid Tourist Questions
From Nicki Loth, former travel agent:
A client booking a ski trip to Steamboat Springs, CO, wanted a room close to the gondola to Vail. The two ski areas are about 100 miles and a major mountain pass apart.
Asked of Dennis Prichard, ranger, at a national park:
“What season do the deer turn into elk?”
Have you overheard a stupid tourist question at a National Park or other well-known tourist location? Send it to diane(at)RVtravel.com
Bumper sticker of the week
The license plate frame on the back of Sam’s truck (TV):
IF YOU CAN READ THIS MY TRAILER FELL OFF
Thanks, Sam!
Have you seen a funny bumper sticker? Send it to diane(at)RVtravel.com
Joke of the Week
My uncle named his dogs Rolex and Timex. They’re his watch dogs.
Worth Pondering
“There’s a lot of optimism in changing scenery, in seeing what’s down the road.” —Conor Oberst
RV Travel staff
CONTACT US at editor@RVtravel.com
Editor and Publisher: Chuck Woodbury. Managing editor: Diane McGovern. Senior editor: Russ De Maris. Staff writer: Emily Woodbury. Contributing writers: Greg Illes, Bob Difley, Richard Miller, Richard Mallery, Dave Helgeson, Janet Groene, Gary Bunzer, Roger Marble, Mike Sokol, Chris Guld, Julianne Crane, Chris Fellows, Dennis Prichard, Len Wilcox, J.M. Montigel and Andrew Robinson. Advertising coordinator: Gail Meyring. Marketing director: Jessica Sarvis. IT wrangler: Kim Christiansen.
REGIONAL AND LOCAL ADVERTISING: We can now run banners on RVtravel.com in your town or in a designated area near you, for example to readers within 100, 200, etc., miles of your business. Contact Gail Meyring at Gail(at)RVtravel.com.
About the RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury has explored America by RV for three decades. In the ’90s he published the quirky travel newspaper Out West, and was an “on the road” writer for the New York Times Syndicate. His book, “The Best from Out West” is available at Amazon.com. Woodbury’s RVing adventures have been profiled on ABC News, CNN, NBC’s Today Show, and in People Magazine, USA Today and in hundreds of newspapers. He is the host of the Better Business Bureau DVD “Buying a Recreational Vehicle,” the definitive guide to purchasing an RV the right way.
Everything in this newsletter is true to the best of our knowledge. But we occasionally get something wrong. We’re just human! So don’t go spending $10,000 on something we said was good simply because we said so, or fixing something according to what we suggested (check with your own technician first). Maybe we made a mistake. Tips and/or comments in this newsletter are those of the authors and may not reflect the views of RVtravel.com or this newsletter.
Mail us at 9792 Edmonds Way, #265, Edmonds, WA 98020.
This newsletter is copyright 2019 by RVtravel.com
Chuck, GMC Motorhomes International , a FMCA club dedicated to the GMC motorhome, purchased an AED and it is at all their rallies. Might be a bit expensive for an individual, but as a club purchase, it is an excellent use of funds. Volunteer club members have been trained in its use and also CPR.
Tom, all clubs should invest in an A.E.D. Thanks to you and your club for buying one. The life you save may be a club member or simply someone nearby. Tell your members thank you from our staff!
Chuck— Oregon has a ” Good Samaritan Law ” that means if you give Someone Aid in an Emergency they cannot sue you for any damages… ALL States should have this Law..
AED This exact subject was brought up at a pickleball meeting on the courts last Sunday. I understand it’s an ongoing discussion with the management here at CVR in Yuma. So far in the past two years nothing has been done to get one for the park or for the very active group of picklers an AED. And it’s not like they couldn’t afford the machine (s). The EMS is probably 10-15 minutes away, so we have all counted our blessing. There was even talk of taking up a collection to have an AED on hand at the courts. Still waiting.
This was the best newsletter since you changed your format, I have literally spent over 2.5 hours reading this, excellent!
Thanks, Bob! We’re trying (always) to meet and/or exceed our readers’ expectations, and we have lots of ideas/plans for new features. We hope to get better and better! It’s easy to do when we love what we’re doing and have great readers like you who appreciate our efforts. Have a great day! 😀 —Diane at RVtravel.com
Hi Chuck: Have I seen you at the ball game in the stands? You may have a twin brother. LOL Frank
We volunteer host for Oregon State Parks and the USDA Forest Service in Montana. It’s been our experience that these campgrounds/parks have AEDs. In addition the National Forest ranger district we volunteer for requires all campground hosts to be CPR certified and they provide the American Red Cross training for us.
Joke of the week, “watch dogs” Rolex & Timex, LOL. Thought I would share my dogs name,
I traveled with my trailer the end of winter 2 years ago to rescue my dog from his national breed rescue foster ‘s home. Upon my return, I nearly named him “Miles”, but my niece’s dog already has that name. So, I named my dog “Recreation Vehicle” and call him “RV” for short, and it turns out that he really is a recreation vehicle, totally loves to play, his favorite thing is to fetch a ball and return it to me asap. He opens drawers where I stor his excessive collection of bouncy balls, soft squeek toys, etc., he likes hide and seek, and loves to engage play with our elder dog Blossom. He’s not a FUNGI, just a FUN GUY.
Campnwater RV Park in Homosassa Fl has an AED . Hopefully no one ever needs it
Jojoba Hills SKP RV Resort has 6 AEDs clearly marked in each of our buildings and at the Pickle ball court. We also have a team of volunteers who are Red Cross Certified in CPR and First Aid. During our high season there are always 2 volunteers ready to respond to emergencies in the park. My wife was instrumental in getting this program set up and on Dec 25 (yes Christmas Day) I called the team using our internal emergency 4911 # which calls the volunteers AND 911 in response to her fainting. No CPR or AED was needed but what a relief to know it was there – oh yes one of the on duty volunteers has one of the AEDs in their car. We are 20 minutes from the nearest EMT response.
Being in the healthcare industry, I sometimes take for granted some of the information that we in the business are privy to, and how we need to do a better job getting the word out. So, I appreciate your being educated on the value of an AED device. However, I am sensitive to the fact that had it not been for the presence of those two first responders and their quick action, the AED might have been moot.
I first became interested in AED’s while teaching AC power classes for sound technicians a number of years ago. And Chuck and I have discussed how to get more RV owners and campgrounds interested in purchasing these life saving pieces of gear. Chuck has taken the highly proactive step of purchasing an AED for his RV, and I’ve been in contact with a number of AED manufacturers trying to get support so I can present AED demonstration classes at my RV-electricity seminars.
We’ll see what 2019 brings, but I know that AEDs save lives, not only from electric shock, but from a variety of other causes as well. For example, my guitar-player/best-friend of 40+ years suffered a mild heart attack while driving across a long bridge in WV last year. Luckily he was able to just finish the drive across the bridge and pulled to the side of the road as he called his wife on his cell phone and told her what was happening and she was to call 911 with directions to his location which she did. The ambulance arrived shortly and an AED likely saved his life.
As an ARC instructor trainer and an advocate of having an AED available (as i have) in my RV, I don’t recommend a sign on your vehicle. It is an invitation to a break in, to steal something of value.
Telling RV park Staff is good. The friends and relatives, good. Telling potential thieves. Not Good.
In addition, if you have one, and it gets used, the EMT may leave it on the victim and take it with them in transport. Always put your name and phone number on it. Also, ask what hospital the victim is going to, so you can retrieve your $ AED.
Some park management personnel (and their insurance company/lawyer) might be concerned about liability, insurance, lawsuits, etc. if they have the devices on hand. One wrong move or error or even failure will, in many instances, result in somebody suing anyone and everyone involved.
Mike, that would be interesting to research. Could the same be said, perhaps, for a fire extinguisher if it were used improperly?
That might fall under the good samaritan law.
Don’t need it, mine is installed in my body along with a pacemaker already.
I have a really “funny” story about nearly killing two of my seminar students in a live-sound demonstration. When I shouted into a microphone REALLY LOUD, two attendees on opposite sides of the class jumped up at the same time with pale looks on their faces and ran out of the room. As soon as I could take a break I went to find them, and they were at the water fountain exchanging stories. Seems they both had new pacemakers with built-in defibrillators recently installed and my shout had startled them enough to cause their hearts to skip a beat. Of course the built-in defibrillator thought something was wrong and starting shocking their hearts back into sync, which they said was VERY uncomfortable. I was both terrified and fascinated at the same time at what I had done. Their doctors had warned them they might have to adjust the sensitivity of the shock procedure, and that my seminar was an ideal demonstration of what it feels like if the threshold is set too low. Just doing my part for the medical community, I guess….
At 66 yrs old, I just got an ICD put in a few weeks ago. So far so good.
Our FMCA Club “WESTEX” purchased an AED about 6 years ago. The current president carries it in his coach and we have had training in its use for most of our members. In case of medical or other emergencies we all respond to three long blasts on the air horn.
Just FYI, both of the links in the Free and Bargain Camping take us to the page for Murphreesboro, TN
Scroll down, They’re on the same page.
Preferred RV Resort in Pahrump NV has one but it is quite a ways away from some of the RVs. I agree every park should have at least one.
Portland OR Spring RV show 6-10 March 2019 Expo Center. Fall show end of October first of November
Thanks, Vanessa. My apologies for the oversight. I’ve listed the Spring RV Show, and will get the fall show listed when I find the specific dates. —Diane at RVtravel.com
As an ARC instructor trainer and an advocate of having an AED available (as i have) in my RV, I don’t recommend a sign on your vehicle. It is an invitation to a break in, to steal something of value.
Telling RV park Staff is good. The friends and relatives, good. Telling potential thieves. Not Good.
In addition, if you have one, and it gets used, the EMT may leave it on the victim and take it with them in transport. Always put your name and phone number on it. Also, ask what hospital the victim is going to, so you can retrieve your $ AED.
lake bonnet village in Avon Park Florida has 3 of them. Cudos to them after all it’s a over 55 park.
Everyone should download the PulsePoint AED app on their smartphone. This app uses crowdsourcing to identify AED locations and make them available in the PulsePoint Respond app (similar to gas-buddy for fuel prices). See the following links for more information.
https://www.ems1.com/ems-products/aeds/articles/1932323-New-app-puts-location-of-AEDs-at-your-fingertips/
https://www.pulsepoint.org/pulsepoint-aed/
Chuck and Mike,
Adam Longfellow at AllStays may be willing to add a filter or at least put a statement in his descriptions (along with the number of sites, length of RV allowed, etc. etc.) about a campground’s AED availability. He’s a great guy and can be emailed at apps@allstays.com. I would think a word from either of you would go a long way.
Having an AED is different from knowing how to use the AED. Yes, there are instructions and there is an audio, but taking time to read or listen can be the difference between life and death. In addition, CPR needs to be applied instantly and constantly until the AED arrives. Everyone (especially older RV’ers) should take a CPR/AED class to know exactly how to react to someone having an attack….fumbling around with something you’re unfamiliar with is contributing to the problem and may cost the person his/her life.
I forgot to mention…. we provide AED units in several places at Pacific Shores Motorcoach Resort in Newport Oregon…in addition we also provide yearly CPR/AED classes to all who are interested.
Ron, one of the things that Chuck and I have proposed is that we add a basic CPR and AED demonstration at some of my RV Electricity seminars. This would be a separate 1-hour presentation that could include a local EMS instructor with the appropriate dummy and AED gear.