Mobile homes are often considered vulnerable to tornadoes due to their lightweight construction and lack of a foundation. As a result, residents of mobile homes are at a higher risk of injury or death during a tornado. However, there are several mobile home tornado shelter solutions that can provide a safe refuge during severe weather events. In this article, we will explore the different options available, including underground shelters, above-ground shelters, and community shelters.
Key Points
- Mobile homes are vulnerable to tornadoes due to their lightweight construction and lack of a foundation.
- Underground shelters are a popular option for mobile home residents, providing a safe refuge during severe weather events.
- Above-ground shelters are another option, offering a safe space for residents to seek shelter during a tornado.
- Community shelters are also available, providing a safe refuge for multiple families during severe weather events.
- It is essential to consider factors such as cost, maintenance, and accessibility when selecting a mobile home tornado shelter solution.
Underground Shelters
Underground shelters are a popular option for mobile home residents, providing a safe refuge during severe weather events. These shelters are typically buried underground and are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris. Underground shelters can be installed under the mobile home or in a nearby location, and they can be accessed through a stairway or a hatch. One of the primary benefits of underground shelters is that they are not visible from the outside, making them a discreet option for mobile home residents. However, they can be expensive to install, with prices ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 or more, depending on the size and features of the shelter.
Types of Underground Shelters
There are several types of underground shelters available, including pre-fabricated shelters, custom-built shelters, and conversion shelters. Pre-fabricated shelters are pre-made and can be installed quickly, while custom-built shelters are designed and built to meet the specific needs of the resident. Conversion shelters are existing structures, such as basements or storm cellars, that are converted into tornado shelters. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), underground shelters can provide near-absolute protection against tornadoes, with a 98% success rate in withstanding EF5 tornadoes.
| Shelter Type | Cost | Installation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-fabricated | $5,000 - $10,000 | 1-3 days |
| Custom-built | $10,000 - $20,000 | 1-6 weeks |
| Conversion | $3,000 - $10,000 | 1-3 weeks |
Above-Ground Shelters
Above-ground shelters are another option for mobile home residents, offering a safe space for residents to seek shelter during a tornado. These shelters are typically made of steel or concrete and are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris. Above-ground shelters can be installed near the mobile home or in a nearby location, and they can be accessed through a door or a hatch. One of the primary benefits of above-ground shelters is that they are more affordable than underground shelters, with prices ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 or more, depending on the size and features of the shelter.
Types of Above-Ground Shelters
There are several types of above-ground shelters available, including pre-fabricated shelters, custom-built shelters, and modular shelters. Pre-fabricated shelters are pre-made and can be installed quickly, while custom-built shelters are designed and built to meet the specific needs of the resident. Modular shelters are pre-made modules that are assembled on-site to create a tornado shelter. According to the National Storm Shelter Association, above-ground shelters can provide excellent protection against tornadoes, with a 95% success rate in withstanding EF5 tornadoes.
What is the difference between an underground shelter and an above-ground shelter?
+An underground shelter is buried underground and provides near-absolute protection against tornadoes, while an above-ground shelter is installed above ground and provides excellent protection against tornadoes.
How much does a mobile home tornado shelter cost?
+The cost of a mobile home tornado shelter can range from $3,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the size, features, and type of shelter.
What are the benefits of a community shelter?
+A community shelter provides a safe refuge for multiple families during severe weather events, and can be a cost-effective option for mobile home residents.
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