Save your awning with plastic gallon jugs

Desert winds often come up unexpectedly and can blow with strong gusts, then fade away. You may not always receive adequate warning signs and get caught with your awning extended when you're snoozing or away for a short walk.

An easy and quick safeguard is to fill plastic gallon jugs with water and hang from the outward ends of your awning. The weight of the water will minimize the awning from lifting and flapping--possibly damaging the fabric or arms--if a sudden wind rushes through your campsite.

Filled jugs placed on the bottom edge of screen rooms or sun screens will also do the job.