No Key, No Problem: How to Open RV Emergency Window from Outside

opening an rv window from outside

Published Date: August 12, 2020

Last Updated on March 24, 2023 by

It’s happened to the best of us – you’ve just returned from a hike to find that your RV door has accidentally locked behind you, leaving you stranded outside without a key. Or, perhaps you’re camping with your family and a sudden emergency requires quick access to the inside of your RV.

But fear not, because your RV comes equipped with special safety features for just such an occasion – you just need to know how to use them. That’s where this guide comes in: we’ve put together all the information you need on how to open RV emergency window from the outside. With these simple steps and tricks, you’ll be able to regain access to your RV and get back to enjoying your camping adventure.

Brief Overview of an Rv

An Rv, also known as a recreational vehicle, is an automobile that includes living quarters designed for accommodation, it is equipped with some of the amenities of a home such as beds and cooking equipment, and it is usually used when on holiday.

There is extra space at the push of a button, queen and king-size beds, leather sofas, gourmet kitchens, and even fireplaces. You can take the comfort of your own home with you and explore the world with an RV. But what happens when that adventure is cut short?

Having an RV emergency window and knowing how to operate it is imperative and necessary for your safety and that of your family.

There is a mandate from fire codes for the requirement of an emergency window in RVs since the 1970s. The regulations require that one emergency exit be located across the RV’s main entry door, and another be located in the RV’s sleeping quarters.

RV’s must also come equipped with smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, linear position (LP) sensors, and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms.

So, you see how important it is to know how to open an RV window from the outside, in cases where the keys to the motor vehicle or trailer are missing.

How To Open RV Emergency Window From Outside

How To Open RV Emergency Window From Outside

The RV windows are either slide-type or crank-type windows. The driver’s area windows are usually slide-type windows with a latch for security. Many RV emergency windows are also located in the rear.

A screwdriver can be used to open it from the outside, and a particular type of screwdriver for this is the Phillips head screwdriver, which is usually all you need to open it from the outside.

When it opens, you can climb through the window and unlock the front door in cases where the keys to the door are missing. Always remember to reattach the RVs emergency exit window after removing it.

In a case where the RV is rented, it is advisable to call the owner of the RV before taking any action, and the owner might have an alternate entry and also give you a number of roadside assistance.

Some models of RV have a history of automatically locking when you close the door or when you turn the handle a certain way. That is why before you buy or rent an RV, you should endeavor to find out if there is an issue with the rig. If there is, you should know how to avoid it in case of an emergency.

While manufacturers are required to supply these safety features, it is the responsibility of the RV owners to know how to properly operate these features for the safety of everyone.

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Operating Your Emergency Window From Outside

Operating Your Emergency Window From Outside

Learning how to operate your RV emergency exit window from the outside is a crucial skill for any RV owner. While there are various types of RVs and brands available, the operation of an emergency window is pretty standard across all models. However, it’s important to practice operating your emergency window before an emergency takes place. Here’s how:

First, locate your RV’s emergency window, which is usually located in places such as the main living room or the bedroom. Depending on the model, your RV may have multiple emergency windows, which are easy to identify with their red-colored handle, cord, or latch. The motor homes consist of three (3) classes; class A, class B, and class C.

The towable RVs consists of travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, expandable (folding and tent) trailers, and sport utility RV trailers or toy hauler.

To open the emergency exit window, activate the release mechanism and break the seal. Then, apply pressure with your hand to fully open the window. Be mindful of the distance between the window and the ground, as it can be significant. It’s best to put your legs in first and attempt to land on your feet to ensure safe entry.

When you’re ready to close the window, have someone on the outside push it in, then put the release mechanism back in place to seal the window back up. Apply a little pressure on the window to ensure it’s secure.

If you’ve tried these steps and still can’t get into your RV, a locksmith may be your last resort. Although this is a costly option, it’s better than damaging your window or door. Some towing experts may also offer locksmith services if they’re not available in your area.

To stay safe in an emergency, always keep the window clear of any obstructions and give everyone a tour of the RV when traveling with other people, before embarking on a road adventure. Show them where the emergency windows are located and explain how to operate them and allow everyone to practice.

One advantage of towable RVs is that they are often less expensive than full-sized motor homes. Some can even be towed with a variety of different vehicles, and some have a better connection with a gooseneck rig. This makes them a great option for RVers on a budget or those who prefer the flexibility of being able to switch between vehicles.

Another benefit of towable RVs is that if you have towing insurance, it will usually cover the cost of a towing company coming to your aid in an emergency. This can provide peace of mind knowing that you have a safety net in case of a lockout.

In addition, it’s important to keep your RV locks well-maintained by checking them regularly, keeping them clean, and applying a good lubricant. Also having a spare set of RV keys in a secure place outside your RV can also be a lifesaver in case of a lockout.

Finally, watch the short video below to see a real-life process on how to open RV emergency window:

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Conclusion

As any seasoned RV owner knows, being locked out of your vehicle can be a frustrating and even scary experience. Imagine returning from a hike or a trip to the store, only to find that your RV door has mysteriously locked itself. Even with a spare key, the door may still refuse to budge.

Fortunately, there’s no need to panic or spend a small fortune on a locksmith in an emergency situation. By following these simple steps on how to open an RV emergency window from outside, you can quickly and safely gain access to your RV. Not only will this save you time and money, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that you can handle unexpected situations on the road.

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