Fire

[goufgators]

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?

[goufgators]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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-]

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]

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]

FIRE is a motivator.......

YOU will GET OUT!

[rgatijnet1]

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

[Kayteg1]

I ditto that in case of getting burned alive inside - having broken leg during escape sounds like a bargain.
In my conversion all windows open widely, so opening is not an issue, but windows are 7 feet above the ground.
Once I managed to lock myself inside, due the outside tumblers and even taking my time to prepare for climbing it was not that comfortable.
Sure did not plan on broken leg.
Disaster preparation is always difficult issue.
Being home repairman in earthquakes area I see it all the time.
After each "bigger one" homeowners stuff water and canned food in the basement. After few years, when the supplies age, they throw them away and then next bigger one comes and process repeats.

[lj2654]

The newest FMCA magazine has a writeup on the 2016 American Eagle and it has an escape ladder in the bathroom. It is above the toilet and is a cabinet with shelves(ladder) that folds out thru the wall for going down in an emergency! I'm sure more will follow with something similar soon.

[Artum_Snowbird]

Maybe someone could come up with a hinged escape from the bathroom wall. There could be some wall space there that could contain a small shelf and cupboard, and in an emergency pull down the latch and have it swing open for easy exit.

[Nik]

Dutch_12078 wrote:
I suspect an actual fire would be a great motivator for making it happen when really needed.

Could not have said it better myself.