Monaco LaPalma Owner's Manual page 139

• Seal cracks, crevices, and other gaps especially around doors and
windows. Make sure all windows and doors are screened and fit
the screens snugly in the frame.
• Many pests need moisture to successfully live and reproduce.
Limit access to water or moisture sources by sealing cracks and
leaks in pipes and faucets. Reduce moisture in the motorhome by
controlling condensation, immediately wiping up spills and
promptly repairing leaks. Be extra alert around areas that attract
rodents and insects, including the sewer hose, fresh water hose,
bay doors and items that may be leaning against the outside of
the motorhome, such as fishing poles and golf clubs.
• When the motorhome is stored outdoors, clear the surrounding
area of all rodent friendly hiding places - shrubs, trees and clut-
ter. Completely seal the underside of the motorhome. Wire mesh
will work well to prevent points of entry, but beware of blocking
necessary air vents. Prior to operating the motorhome after
storage, remove all insect and animal nests that may have
developed around vents, engine compartments, and the exhaust
pipe and in the wheel wells.
Rodents:
Rodents may chew through wires or build nests in components of the
motorhome. Signs of rodent infestation include droppings, shredded material
or chewed furniture fabrics and vinyl. Rodents like to build nests with wire
insulation, and are commonly attracted to the outside coating of 110 wiring
more than 12-Volt wiring.
NOTE: Although the back cap on most motorhomes is well
sealed, rodents are capable of chewing through the foam
insulation and that area should be routinely inspected.
If there are signs of rodent infestation around the motorhome, place traps
or poisons in suspected areas. Keep the traps and poisons safely away from
pets and children. Cheese is not the best bait for a rodent trap. Use peanut
butter or chocolate in small amounts. Place the bait on the trigger of the trap
to induce the rodent to climb onto the trigger to reach the bait. Rodents do
not limit invasion to unused vehicles.
Insects:
Eliminate insects the moment a sign of infestation is spotted. If you are
unable to identify the type of insect, purchase some sticky traps from the
hardware store and place the tape where you have seen the insects. Once
caught, seek assistance in identifying the insect and determining what will be
required to remove the infestation.
2004 • LaPalma
Exterior & Interior Care
3 • 139