I TOOK TIME TO PLAY - Issue 36

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read this Diary on line HERE...

TIPS AND PROMOS COMBINED THIS WEEK I have so many on file, if yours is not here this week it should be next week.

These next three Tips appeared in this weeks RV Travel. Com Newsletter … Whole post is worth a read.

#1… HOW TO HANDLE A TIRE BLOWOUT ON YOUR RV OR CAR –Very Important Read

Tips in this ten-minute video could save your life. Learn how to act if you experience a tire blowout on your motorhome or tow vehicle. Hitting the brakes is the worst thing you can do. Taking your foot off the accelerator is almost as dangerous. Learn the right way to react to a tire blowout by using established principles proven over the years. It enables you to maintain control of your RV. (if you don’t have high speed – let video slowly load and then play it again).

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#2… WINTER IS COMING – TIPS ON HOW TO STORE YOUR RV FOR THE SEASON By Mark Polk

It won't be too long before some RVers begin preparing their motorhomes or trailers for winter. For many, that will mean storing them. Most RVers don't realize it, but how you store an RV is just as important as winterizing the water system. It's important you consider things like batteries, ventilation, the condition of sealants, mice, and fuel system protection just to mention a few. Read now to learn or as a reminder what’s needed to get your RV ready for winter storage. Mark Polk writes numerous Books, ebooks, DVD’s and Videos available from RV Education101.com. Plus No-cost How-to Info. See full selection HERE...

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#3… LOCKS ON MAIN RV DOOR HANDLES ARE UNIVERSAL… An Idaho RV dealer was burglarized last week of six flat screen TVs from six trailers. It turned out that all the RVs were locked, but only with their door locks, not the deadbolt locks. "All RV door locks are the same -- one key fits all," a spokesman for the dealership said in so many words. What this means to you and me is: be sure, when you lock your RV, ALWAYS USE THE DEADBOLT LOCK. If you use the wimpy regular door lock, then any other RVer can use his or her key to get into your rig. Most RVers are good people, so they would never do such a thing. But there are a few bad dudes lurking and they will. So be careful.

TIP FROM PEGGI – Locks on your outside storage pod doors are also universal. We always lock ours to ensure they don’t open during transit, but we are aware that any other person with a key to their locks can probably open ours. Sooooo we keep no valuables in these pods.

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Bill shared this info – a question surfaced while he was reading an extensive article in FMCA reference CONSIGNMENT OF RV'S. From Bill’s research he found that most USA companies are not insuring RV'S while on consignment since they are not in the care, custody and control of the insured – plus the dealer is not covering them either. However Vehicles do have coverage while in a storage as long as collision and comprehensive are on them depending on the claim.

I AM HAPPY TO REPORT when I asked Wayfarer Insurance – leader in Cdn RV Insurance – this Q; I was assured RV’s in a CDN CONSIGNMENT LOT they’d be covered because you still own the unit – not the dealer. Details HERE or 800-461-031.

• FYI Wayfarer also sell complex Mexican Insurance.
• Be sure to read the story ref LOOK FOR THE DIFFERENCES

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COMPUTER VIRUS WARNINGS ARE CIRCULATING AGAIN. Bonnie relayed the POSTCARD/E-CARD threats are making the rounds. One says, “You have a Postcard” in the subject line, another is “A Family member/friend sent you and E-Card”. Don’t click on the attachment or link.

Dennis sent the info about the “OSAMA BIN LADEN” email – this email may have an attachment that says ‘He Has Died’ or ‘He’s Been Captured or Hanged’ etc. Immediately delete ALL this type of email.

THESE ARE BOTH DANGEROUS and frequently they appear (in error) to come through from a family or friend. Both have been checked out on Snopes. If you open either, they will destroy your C- Drive. Heed these warnings and be cautious of opening ANY email or suspicious links.

FALL IS IN THE AIR - Issue 35

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read this Diary on line HERE

TIPS THIS WEEK

Bill shares info on the NEW THREAT TO WOMAN AT GAS STATIONS. The email contains a long story but in a word – a serial rapist has found a unique way to win the trust of woman. In the email version, he is a clean cut individual that tells you as you are driving away that you dropped $5 or $10 in the store while you were paying for gas. He wants you to open the window so he can give it to you. He looks like a kind hearted concerned individual. If you do not accommodate him he gets very angry. BUT if you open your door or window you are at his mercy. Be safe and be sure to drive away, let the police know of the encounter – it may not be anything but you could save your life if you do not accepted the cash.

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Crooks are becoming more creative all the time. Bernie shared this CREDIT CARD SCAM - it is TRUE on Snoops.com. A caller claiming to be from the Credit Card Company attempts to obtain the LAST THREE SECURITY NUMBERS ON THE BACK OF YOUR CR CD. They provide you with all the info on your card – they don’t have to ask for it because they already know the answers. The only question they don’t have is the 3-digit security numbers. The call sounds very official and they even give you a phone number to call for follow-up info – it’s supposedly from the Card Fraud Office. They state that a large purchase has gone through your account that day and they are verifying you have your card in your possession – so they need these numbers. DO NOT GIVE THIS INFO TO ANYONE THAT CALLS YOU. If you have called someone, it is OK to share the numbers. The caller may state they want to make a refund to your account, or stop the use of the card until the security is checked etc. – absolutely anything to get those 3-numbers. Click link above to read the full story. If you receive a call similar to this, report it to your Card Fraud Office immediately.

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I have shared this info in the past but Bernie and Heather passed it on again. It is important enough to repeat. When using your CREDIT CARD IN EITHER USA OR CDA at a gas station or on-line etc, frequently you are asked for a ‘ZIP Code’ or ‘Postal Code’. Cdn Credit Card holders now have a way to add a ‘ZIP Code’ to your ‘Cdn Card’. (I see no reason why it would not work for Americans visiting Canada). Travellers with a regular address in the USA (winter residence or mail forwarding etc.) can ask Visa or MC etc. to add it as a SECONDARY ADDRESS to your file. All billing and other transactions continue to go through your Cdn address. Advantage is – if you’re pumping gas, you can punch in that ZIP code and receive service without running a security risk by leaving your Credit Card in the station office. Bernie’s bank suggested that for major purchases you should use your Cdn address – I leave that decision to you. John and I have also added our USA mail forwarding address to our MC – but neither us, nor Bernie have had a chance to test its effectiveness. It is worth a try.

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PROMOS THIS WEEK

These contacts were part of the Sep 06,08 Diary. I share them here so everyone has easy-access to the info.....

OUT OF COUNTRY MEDICAL INSURANCE is high on the minds of all Cdns. Some companies also sell Insurance to VISITORS TO CANADA. File these numbers so you will have access to them before your next trip.

Many companies offer great plans. Those mentioned below are small sampling of various features you’d find in your search. Each company offers different options and the price paid depends on your age, length of time away AND your individual answers to the health questions. Don’t fudge your answers, because before a claim is paid they will verify your health history. Many will add Top-up Insurance ( I.E Extend a policy you may have with your work).

If you would like me to add your favourite insurance company – send me an email and I will share it next week...

***CARP – John and I find this one works best for us. Their standard policy is 5-Million and they also upgrade the No-Cost 40 days from PSHCP (Public Service Health Care Plan – some Federal Employees are members). That plan covers members anytime they travel up to 40 days out of province. Coverage is $500,000 but CARP will upgrade it to 5 Million as well for much less than $100. in most age brackets. They also offer $2-$500 and higher deductible PLUS BP meds only have to be stable for 3-months – everything else for 6-months. Longer you are with them, the more discounts that apply such as loyalty, or joint policies etc. No CARP Membership is required. Details HERE 877-566-6805.

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***GOOD SAM CLUB offer a great medical coverage for Cdn Members travelling south or overseas at GOOD RATES. (They also offer a similar plan for their American Members visiting to Canada). Members receive TWO COMPLIMENTARY DAYS for any number of trips across the border. These 2-FREE days can be topped up at any time. Their level of coverage is 2 Million. Check w/Good Sam Club and click on "member benefits", then "insurance". Call 888-237-1177 to activate your coverage and to extend it. This policy does top-up other insurance plans. Good Sam Club work with Travel Insurance. Non-member cost and benefits may be higher.

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***PRIME LINK offers a choice of 1-Million and 5-Million plan coverage. They also only request that stability of numerous things is only a minimum of 2-months. Each company promotes slightly different benefits. Details HERE - phone number 800 509 5831. Ray Murdock is a broker for this copany (519 884-5923)

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***I was not able to contact MEDOC at 1-800-461-4597. I am aware they will add Top-ups of the PSHCP, plus they also upgrade the 40-day coverage. On their website they post samples of their rates. Details HERE.

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***SANDERSON TRAVEL INSURANCE offer special benefits to Canada’s Explorer RV Club. We have been playing phone tag so I still have not talked to them to confirm details. Their insurance is available with and without pre-existing medical conditions – stability for each person may vary. It is definitely worth a call to check out their rates and benefit. Details HERE 877-266-8728.

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Depending on your age, you also may find good deals at MANY CANADIAN BANKS.

Travellers MUST check out the best one for you. Please, NO one cross the border without it. When John was in the hospital for a week in Florida a year ago after he was diagnosed with a superbug. He also was treated as an out-patient by a Infectious Disease doctor. We then went home for 33 days - no one really found the cause BUT that experience cost the Insurance company $45,000 and John had no operation - just a battery of tests.

Hope this info helps some. Travel safe P&J

LABOUR DAY WEEKEND - WOW Issue 34

Diary has been published weekly since 2001
Read this week's Diary on line HERE


TIPS THIS WEEK

The three informative posts below were featured in this weeks RVTRAVEL.COM NEWSLETTER plus Chuck gives a second report of RV Travel in Scotland even if it is more costly for gas/fuel Story HERE

*** WINTERIZING: A New RV Antifreeze said to save huge amounts of oil – will soon be sold exclusively by Wal*Mart. Read the full story of this new environmentally friendly product… HERE – Those who are NEW to winterizing or if you would just like a refresher - it is covered extensively in my book ‘RV Living in the 21st Century’. However a very handy article on the subject is also featured HERE – "It’s never to early to think about winterizing,"

*** A new HIGH PRESSURE SHOWER HEAD that uses minimum water at 3-times the pressure is explained HERE...

*** This informative and interesting article highlights “What to Pack and TIPS on how Not to Forget anything” when embarking on a trip longer than normal. It is especially beneficial FOR THOSE NEW TO RVING.

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Email Promo worth sharing – sender name not included. On THURSDAY, SEP 11th, 2008, every American is asked to DISPLAY A FLAG outside each home, apartment, office store etc. in the USA. It’s the 7th ANNIVERSARY of ‘9/11’ and one small way to honour those who are no longer here. Support has almost disappeared over the years. This email stressed that patriotism has pulled Americans through some tough times and it should not take another attack to galvanize solidarity. The American Flag is the fabric of the country and can prevail over all situations.

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PROMOS OF THE WEEK

Mark Polk of RVEducation101.com wrote a very informative article on WHY RV’S CATCH FIRE. Even if you have had some fire training this is definitely worth a read.

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RV INSURANCES IN GENERAL – *** The two most beneficial RV Insurance plans are Wayfarer (for Cdns) / This company works at the highest level to benefit all RVers. For more details be sure to read the article by Joe Martin “Look For The Difference” Here…

*** We are not an affiliate with this company, but the most popular RV Insurance for Americans is Explorer.com This company too has a reputation of working positively on behalf of their clients.

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MEXICAN INSURANCE - *** Is this your winter to RV in Mexico? MEXACAN is without a doubt one of the best brokers to answer all your questions BEFORE you travel south of the USA. They specialize in reasonably priced Mexican Insurance for both to Canadians and Americans. Check it out Here. Buy your coverage BEFORE you leave home.

*** Wayfarer RV Insurance (for Cdns) also promotes reasonable and comprehensive Mexican Insurance. / Every Mexican traveller owes it to themselves to check out a variety of companies – both of these are very fair to deal with.

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LAST INSURANCE THAT EVERYONE SHOULD CARRY IS AN ‘ERS’ (Emergency Road Service). One ‘no-cost’ Service Call more than pays for your annual membership. Many policies are available, but the ones that are most common for RVers are those promoted by RV Clubs. Explorer RV Club (Cda’s National RV Club) - Good Sam Club (Int’l) - Family Motor Coach Assoc (motorhome owners Int’l) and Escapees RV Club Again it is most important to shop around – just ensure you don’t leave home without an ERS plan of some kind. They mostly work the same way but some offer more benefits than others. Out advice is to compare benefits as well as cost.

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That's it for this week. Travel safe. P&J www.rvliving.net

UNPREDICTABLE SUMMERTIME Issue 32

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read this 'RV Living.net P&J's Weekly Diary' on line HERE

TIPS THIS WEEK

Tom stores his cooking liqueur and wine in a special commercial padded WINE STORAGE container under his sink. No more clanking or brown bags or wine boxes required. Because he also removed all shelves in this area, he now has space to store eight rolls of paper towels beside the wine to keep everything in place. These wine holders should be available in stores such as Sam’s Club or Costco or even Container Store etc.

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Two more tips on HOW TO FORWARD EMAIL from Rod – first three tips in 26 July diary…

#4... ALWAYS hit your Forward button from the actual e-mail you are reading. Ever get those e-mails that you have to open 10 times to reach the one page with the information on it? By Forwarding from the actual page you wish someone to view, you eliminate the need for them to open numerous e-mails just to see what you sent. The more often an address appears in and email the more chance you could pick up a virus. (NOTE: This may not work with AOL).

#5... If you receive an email that is a PETITION asking you to add your name plus email address before you forward it to 10 or 15 people or to your entire address book. NOTE: The sent email will collect thousands of names and email addresses. However the info on the completed petition is actually worth considerable dollars to professional Spammers. If you plan to support the petition, why not send a personal letter to the intended recipient. Your position may carry more weight as a personal letter than a laundry list of names and email address. (Think about it, who is supposed to send the petition on? By the way email CANNOT be traced, it just isn't so!)

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PROMOS THIS WEEK

Each Saturday morning I receive the RV Travel.com newsletter. Chuck Woodbury, editor of this newsletter is in Scotland this week and he is positive he has seen the FUTURE OF RVING. It continues to be a very popular pastime in that country even though gas ranges between $9-10 US per gallon. The Scottish and many other European countries have found a way to continue a lifestyle they love. In time those of us in this continent will learn how to cope as well. Read all about ‘How’ in the entire story Here…

In the same newsletter Chuck also posted this interesting somewhat humorous video from Coachmen comparing RV/GAS PRICES VS. HOTEL/AIR/RESTAURANT TRAVEL Here You just may change your mind as to whether next RV trip is worthwhile, even with high costs.

Another entry by author Bess McBride’s ‘TONGUE AND CHEEK’ BLOG on Keeping Up With the Joneses and the pitfalls of Shopping for a New RV. Funny – worth a Read…

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MOVING STORY George Sent By Email… Worth sharing

I hired a plumber to help restore an old farmhouse, and after he finished a rough first day on the job where a flat tire cost him an hour of work; his electric drill quit and his ancient one ton truck refused to start. While I drove him home, he sat in stony silence – he invited me in to meet his family. As we walked toward the front door, he paused briefly at a small tree, touching the tips of the branches with both hands.

When opening the door he underwent an amazing transformation. His face was wreathed in a smile, he hugged his two small children and gave his wife a kiss. Afterwards when walking me to my car, we passed the tree and my curiosity got the better of me. I asked him about what I had seen him do earlier. 'Oh, that's my trouble tree,' he replied 'I know I can't help having troubles on the job, but one thing's for sure, those troubles don't belong in the house with my family. So I just hang them up on the tree every night when I come home and ask God to take care of them.

In the morning I pick them up again.' 'Funny thing is,' he smiled,' when I come out in the morning to pick 'em up, there aren't nearly as many as I remember hanging up the night before'. Travel Safe all. P&J

BIRTHDAYS ARE RESPONSIBLE

BIRTHDAYS ARE RESPONSIBLE Issue 32:

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read the complete issue of this Diary on line HERE

TIPS THIS WEEK ARE AGAIN PLENTIFUL – Thanks everyone.

Donna shared this Security Tip reference using CREDIT CARDS AT GAS STATIONS. You may already know this--I didn't. People are getting really desperate due to the constantly rising gas prices. After using your credit/debit card to purchase gas at the pump (like most of us do), we take our receipt. However, while a co-worker of Donna’s was checking her statement, she found two unknown – $50 charges added to it. Apparently because she didn’t press the ‘clear’ button on the pump, the employee inside the store was able to use her card to purchase his/her own gas!

To keep this from happening, after you get your receipt, ALWAYS press the 'CLEAR' button or your information will be stored until the next customer inserts their card. The sender stated she had never noticed the ‘Clear’ button but when she got gas the other day – it was there. Look for it.

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Bill and Jenn shared a new VIRUS that circulated their office. It is highlighted by email stating “YOUR PACKAGE FROM UPS CAN'T BE DELIVERED – PRINT OUT THE INVOICE”. Unfortunately, one of the attorney’s in her office opened it and it is eating up her computer. Story at Snopes.com explains it all …

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SCAMS AND PHISHING EMAILS are abundant these days. This valuable video at Geeks on Tour explains how to avoid them. In their newsletter they highlighted a game called ANTI-PHISHING PHIL Play it and learn how to spot scam websites HERE Simply by hovering over the link (with your mouse – but DO NOT click the link).

NOTE: If your system is slow then allow the video to load first and then replay it. The Geeksontour spotlight video is highlighted in their regular newsletter and it is always free. Members have access to all (over 100) their videos at an introductory price of $29 for one year. As of 01 Sep 08, it increases to $39. Details Here

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Last tip is from Bill. His 4-year old MH needed new WIPER BLADES. They used a 28” Tru-vision model with a center-mounting hole – a screw and nylock nut attach them. No local dealers or Camping World ($36. each) or the local Workhorse shop ($54. each) had them in stock. Apparently Tru-vision recommends they be replaced 3 times per year – (I’m not sure why…or who changes wipers that often). Tru-vision did not return Bill’s several emails.

He found a brand at Wal*Mart by Anco – with a minor modification of drilling out the rivet and increasing the hole size to 3/16” they are easily installed using the original hardware – best part is they were only $6.00 each – total $12. – sure beats the original quote of $108 per pair.

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PROMOS THIS WEEK

Does UNDERSTANDING your computer DRIVE you Crazy? Newbie Club has the answers! Sign up for their FREE INFORMATIVE weekly Newsletter – OR to become a member with access to many No cost How-to tutorials go HERE

NEWSLETTER HIGHLIGHT this week was “How to download”. SAVE the file to your computer's hard drive (C) – not to a DVD etc. You can always move it later. To see a quick tutorial on downloading... go HERE… See a much more detailed explanation HERE… To access the full site please use link in above para – rvliving.net is an affiliate.

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These tips FOR A SAFE RV TRIP are featured in this weeks RV TRAVEL.COM NEWSLETTER Have a read - they are a valuable lesson for Newbies as well as a comprehensive review for experienced drivers.

***RVing is fun for the whole family, but for the driver it presents more challenges than driving a car. Whether you're a new RVer about to make your first outing or a long-time RVer, take a few moments to review the safe-driving tips in this article HERE.