Awning tie downs straps

[Cdaddy]

Trying to find out if there is a definitive answer on using tiedowns on newer electric awnings. I've herd arguments both ways. I'm always getting asked. My usual answer is no. It's a button use it. Plus straps will slow that process if in a hurry.

[pigman1]

We've got a BUS with 2 Paramount two stage electric awnings and I'll give you our experience. Each is very large and has a wind sensor on it that can be set to retract the awning in varying amounts of wind. Since we fish in Valdez, Alaska we see a lot of rain. Depending on the forecast we may want to leave the awnings out so we throw a rope over each end and tie it down to a 5 gal bucket filled with rocks and water. If we go that way, we have to be careful to deactivate the auto-retract function as these awnings will lift 2 5gal pails of rocks and water right off the ground if they get a retract call. Been there, done that, no damage as I got to the switch fast. If you have a manual awning with a spring on one end to aid in shedding water, Tying the awnings will work in light to moderate wind, but if you catch a good blow, you lost the awning. Sort of a coin flip, especially if you're going to be away from the rig when a storm blows up.

[2oldman]

You mean tie down when out, or travelling?