Just read a post on another forum regarding escaping a fire (not an actual fire) in the front of an RV requiring exit through the rear escape window. I know that my wife and I in the event of a fire would have great difficulty exiting the RV through those so-called escape windows.Wondering...have you or have you ever heard of anyone having to actually use an escape window?

Fortunately, I've never had to use the emergency escape window and, don't know anyone who did.Now, I would have no problem, it a couple years it may be a different story.I don't know the answer, maybe manufacturers should consider an escape door with steps? Or a small inflatable slide like the airliners use, which wouldn't be cheap and take up space in the RV.Hopefully someone has a practical idea.

My wife and I both exited our previous RV's bedroom escape window unassisted as a practice run, and no, it's not the easiest thing to do. Our current coach has an almost identical layout in the bedroom, so we haven't felt the need to try it again. I did make sure the window is fully operable though. I suspect an actual fire would be a great motivator for making it happen when really needed.

We have never had to use the emergency exit either and would also have trouble with it but given the choices when a fire breaks out I suspect we would get out that window without much thought. A broken arm/leg/hip is certainly better than the alternative. Lets all pray it doesn't happen to any of us....

sch911 wrote:We have never had to use the emergency exit either and would also have trouble with it but given the choices when a fire breaks out I suspect we would get out that window without much thought. A broken arm/leg/hip is certainly better than the alternative. Lets all pray it doesn't happen to any of us....yep, feeling the heat on your back would encourage you to fall face down even.bumpy

Since our escape windows are right behind the couches, getting out is no problem at all. The six foot drop to the ground may be a factor but I'm sure it would not stop either one of us from jumping out of the coach in the event of a fire.

Fire | Good Sam Community

goufgators
Explorer
Jan 11, 2016
Another note from OP: While not a sure fire (no pun intended) solution, we should all be sure we have working smoke alarms and change the batteries at least twice a year. If alerted due to smoke, we should all be able to exit before trapped by fire.
goufgators
Explorer
Jan 11, 2016
rockhillmanor wrote:
goufgators wrote:
From the OP: Very good escape window comments but a bit off topic. I actually was (am) interested in finding out if readers of this Forum have personal knowledge of or has ever heard or read about someone actually having to use the escape window due to a fire.

There was a real good on scene by a motorist actual video of a fire in an A on the interstate where it showed a family "trying" to get out the escape window posted on the forum a few months ago.

Maybe someone can find the thread and post the link to the video.

IMHO it is the 'distance down' from the window in a Class A that is the problem not opening or using the window.

From OP: I recall that incident. I'm afraid that would be the same situation my wife and I would be in..."trying to get out the window". Due to our size and age, I don't think it would be possible. I wish more manufacturers would put a rear door on MH's as do many manufacturers of TT's. Sure, it would cost more but I, for one, would gladly pay more for a MH where I felt I could exit quickly and easily if needed.

Also if I have guests in my MH the 'first' thing I do is show them the escape window and how to open it. I find it amazing how many owners do not even know there is an escape window in their RV. :(
rockhillmanor
Explorer
Jan 11, 2016
goufgators wrote:
From the OP: Very good escape window comments but a bit off topic. I actually was (am) interested in finding out if readers of this Forum have personal knowledge of or has ever heard or read about someone actually having to use the escape window due to a fire.

There was a real good on scene by a motorist actual video of a fire in an A on the interstate where it showed a family "trying" to get out the escape window posted on the forum a few months ago.

Maybe someone can find the thread and post the link to the video.

IMHO it is the 'distance down' from the window in a Class A that is the problem not opening or using the window.

Also if I have guests in my MH the 'first' thing I do is show them the escape window and how to open it. I find it amazing how many owners do not even know there is an escape window in their RV. :(
2gypsies1
Explorer III
Jan 10, 2016
Well...unless you're right next to the door you'll probably die if you don't use the escape window. Even at our old age I would not hesitate...just push me out!
goufgators
Explorer
Jan 10, 2016
From the OP: Very good escape window comments but a bit off topic. I actually was (am) interested in finding out if readers of this Forum have personal knowledge of or has ever heard or read about someone actually having to use the escape window due to a fire.
RayChez
Explorer
Jan 10, 2016
Coachmen used to have a rope ladder that you would throw out the escape window in case of a fire. Can not figure why other companies have not done the same.

Six foot drop would be hard on an elderly person.
-Gramps-
Explorer
Jan 10, 2016
Have a support to prop open the window...man goes out first (unless your dw is stronger than you are and taller!) woman follows next feet first.
rockhillmanor
Explorer
Jan 10, 2016
Getting out thru the escape window is one thing but the distance down to the ground is another thing with a Class A.

I was parked next to an elderly couple with a Class A that when they pulled in and set up out came their ladder and it was placed under the escape window.

Talking with them they said at their age if they managed to get out the escape window during a fire only to die from the fall, they would be very ticked off!! So they place the ladder under the window just in case.:C

We all carry ladders so it wouldn't take but seconds to put it under the window. I know I've also seen the fire escape ladder for RV's that you mount above the window in case of a fire.
Old-Biscuit
Explorer III
Jan 10, 2016
FIRE is a motivator.......

YOU will GET OUT!
rgatijnet1
Explorer III
Jan 10, 2016
This was reported in the news today at the Clearwater Travel Resort in Clearwater, FL. Fires can and do happen and I doubt if all three caught fire at the same time. It could be your neighbor's coach that first ignites and that flames spread to your coach also. Clearwater Travel Resort fire

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