Fender skirts or no fender skirts

Well, tonight we are going out on our first outing with the Travelmanor. While I was checking the tires and cleaning the wheels, I had a thought about the fender skirts (not a good one). Two screws hold them on, and I was wondering how much patience I would have on a rainy night fooling around with those two screws. Are the fender skirts for appearance, or do they have a function? I would think that if the tire blows, their toast anyway. Anyone else remove them? Any advice would be appreciated.
If anyone wants a good laugh, your welcome to join us. We're going to Cedar Breaks in Georgetown, Texas.

Randy & Janie Veach
Round Rock, Texas
3023