How to Make Your Mobile Home Tornado Proof: Practical Tips and Strategies
Mobile home parks are often associated with tornado occurrences due to the higher visibility of damage. While tornadoes can hit any home, understanding how to make your mobile home more secure can significantly reduce the risk of damage or injury.
The Myth of Tornado Frequency
Mobile home occupants often feel under a cloud of fear due to the heightened media coverage of tornado damage to these structures. In reality, tornadoes are less likely to hit your specific home than you might think. According to longtime resident experience, the vast majority of mobile homes in the region have never been directly impacted by a tornado.
Understanding the Risk
Your chances of your specific home being hit by a tornado are relatively small. The Midwest, often known as 'Tornado Alley', has seen numerous tornadoes over the years, but these storms typically impact a much broader area. Don't live in constant fear of tornados, but take every tornado siren seriously.
Strategies to Enhance Tornado Safety
There are several practical steps you can take to make your mobile home more tornado-resistant:
1. Seek Shelter or Evacuate
If you have access to a sturdy shelter or a mobile home park with a designated tornado shelter, head there immediately. In the absence of these options, it's crucial to either hunker down and stay put or evacuate to a safer location such as a friend's basement with a concrete foundation.
2. Invest in Safety
In states where it is mandated, consider building a tornado shelter within your mobile home park. Additionally, consider placing your mobile home on a concrete foundation instead of cinderblocks, which can offer better protection during a storm.
3. Temporary Measures
For temporary protection, if the weather forecast indicates a potential tornado, leave your mobile home and stay with friends who have a basement. This can be a practical solution during times of high risk.
4. Relocate if Possible
If you are particularly concerned about the risk, relocating to an area with a lower probability of tornado occurrences might be an option. However, weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks of a new environment.
Conclusion
While tornadoes can be a serious threat, understanding the true risks and implementing practical safety measures can significantly enhance the protection of your mobile home. Whether it's through building a shelter, improving your home's foundation, or simply staying informed and prepared, you can reduce your risk and ensure the safety of yourself and your family.