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April 1, 2026 |

Don’t be a Fool – Prep Wisely for Summer Camping

As the calendar turns, so does the season. Use April Fool’s Day as a good reminder that, as warmer weather approaches and camping activities go along with it, safety must be a priority. Don’t be an April Fool….use this month to prep wisely with some electrical safety tips from Safe Electricity to take along on your next camping trip.

When an RV frame is electrically charged, it is often referred to as “hot skin.” Improper wiring or connections, lack of grounding, reversed polarity, and loose or worn outlets are just some of the potential causes. If a hot skin hazard exists, simply opening the door or coming into contact with the hitch can cause shock or electrocution.

Safety starts even before you head out on the road with your RV.

• To help prevent “hot skin,” your RV’s electrical system needs to be regularly tested and maintained. A professional electrician can help you make sure the wiring in your RV is safe.
• Perform a visual inspection of cords, plugs, and outlets. If cords are cracked or frayed, or outlets and plugs are broken or discolored, do not use them. Have them replaced or repaired. Fire extinguishers, as well as permanently installed carbon monoxide and fire detectors, should also be on the checklist of safety precautions before traveling.
• Always use electrical cords rated for the use they will get. Make sure the power demand of the appliances that will be used does not exceed the cord’s rating. To plug your RV into a campground power pedestal, you will need a heavy-duty, four-wire cord with a grounding wire -- not an extension cord.
• Whether you are powering your RV with a generator or a campground hookup, you need to know the amperage your RV draws and the available amperage. If you try to draw more amperage than is available, you can cause serious damage to the electrical source and your RV. You could even start a fire. Also, make sure you know where your electrical panel and switches are located.
• If you use a generator, know the rules of the campground. Some do not allow generators, and some allow them only during certain hours. Also, be aware of where the generator exhaust is blowing. Always leave a roof vent open when you are operating a generator. Turn your generator on and keep it running before you turn on appliances. Never sleep with the generator on.

Before using a campground hookup, do a visual inspection of the area. If a campground hookup appears to be damaged, put safety first and request another spot. Making the campground aware of the damage will also help future campers at that site.

With proper preparation, the great outdoors and modern conveniences can be enjoyed at the same time. No foolin’! For more information on electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org.