Living with your Trailer -continued
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WARNING
Do not cover emergency exit window(s). This window must be left accessible at all times
for emergency exit.
Dripping Ceiling Vents
During cold weather, condensation frequently forms on ceiling vents and may even accum-
ulate to the point of dripping onto the surfaces below. This is frequently misinterpreted as a
"leaking" roof vent but is most often condensation drippage. Follow the preceding steps to
control moisture condensation, and protect surfaces with plastic sheeting until the moisture
has dissipated.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Mold is a fungus that occurs naturally in the environment and serves necessary functions
including aiding in the decomposition of plant and other organic material. Mold spreads
by means of microscopic spores borne on the wind and is found everywhere life can be
supported. Mold has existed for millions of years, and human beings have coexisted despite
their exposure to mold and mold spores.
If the proper conditions are present, mold can and will grow in your recreational vehicle.
Most RV owners are familiar with mold growth in the form of bread and cheese and on bath-
room tile. In order to grow, mold requires a food source. These food sources might be
supplied by items found in the RV such as fabric, carpet, wallpaper, or building materials (i.e.,
wood, and insulation). Also, most mold growth requires a temperate climate. The best growth
occurs at temperatures between 40 degrees F and 100 degrees F. Most importantly, mold
growth requires moisture, and moisture is the only growth factor that can be controlled. By
minimizing interior sources of moisture, an RV owner can reduce or prevent mold growth.
However, if optimal growth conditions persist, mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours.
Moisture in the RV can stem from a variety of sources such as spills, leaks, overflows, con-
densation, damp or standing water and human activity such as showering or cooking. Good
maintenance practices are essential in the effort to prevent or reduce mold growth.
What the RV Owner Can Do
The RV owner can take positive steps to reduce the occurrence of mold growth in the RV
and thereby minimize any possible adverse effects that may be caused by mold.
These steps may include, but are not limited to, the following:
* Before bringing items into the RV check for signs of mold. Potted plants (root and soil),
furnishings, or stored clothing and bedding materials may also contain mold spores.
* Regular vacuuming and cleaning will help reduce levels of settled mold spores. Addi-
tionally, detergent solutions and most tile cleaners are effective in controlling mold
growth on surfaces.
* Keep the humidity in the RV below 40%. Ventilate kitchens and bathrooms by opening
windows, using exhaust fans, or running the air conditioning to remove excess moisture
in the air and to facilitate evaporation of water from wet surfaces. In general, windows
or doors through-out the RV should be opened periodically to ventilate the RV.
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Summary of Contents for 2013 Creek Side
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