NEW YORK-
It's only onscreen for a moment, but Robin Williams can be seen clutching a copy of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to RVing" as he heads off with his family on their ill-fated expedition in the new movie "RV."
Apparently his character didn't actually read the book, or he might have avoided mishaps like unsecured items falling out of cabinets and onto passengers' heads; the parked vehicle rolling away; a pop-out awning and patio getting sheared off the side of the RV because they weren't retracted before the vehicle hit the road; and problems with a septic system far too disgusting to describe in print.
But you can prevent most of these disasters, and a copy of the book may help. The second edition of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to RVing," by Brent Peterson, has just been released by Alpha Books for $18.95.
The book starts with pre-buying advice such as choosing the right recreational vehicle, navigating the sale and insuring the vehicle. Later chapters cover electrical systems, dealing with liquid petroleum as a power source, and plumbing. There are also sections on towing, campground life, travel planning, how to stay safe, and even how to prepare your RV for a season when it won't be used.