Ensuring safety within and around your mobile home is paramount. Whether you're a new mobile homeowner or an experienced one looking to shore up your safety practices, understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in mobile home safety is crucial. Here are just a few of the essential safety measures for mobile home owners to help ensure that your home remains secure and protected for years to come!
Secure Material Foundations
One of the biggest safety concerns in mobile homes is that they’re more likely to tip over during severe weather conditions compared to traditional houses. We recommend focusing on the anchoring system. You should anchor your mobile home to the ground with the right number of anchors (at least four for single wides and six for double wides). It’s a good idea to place and tighten them as per the manufacturer's instructions and local building codes.
Reinforce Your Anchors
Over time, anchoring systems may weaken due to elements and shifting ground. Routinely inspect and maintain your anchors. Ensure the straps are taut, free from damage, and not rusty. Re-anchoring is a viable option if the ones in place are insufficient or deteriorated. Professional assessment can give you peace of mind and keep your home standing strong.
Bolster Fire Safety
Another essential safety measure for mobile home owners is to protect your house from fire. Because of their compact size, mobile homes can be more vulnerable to fire and can go up in flames much faster. Inspect and maintain your home's electrical, heating, and cooking systems. Keep flammable materials away from heat sources, have working smoke alarms installed and checked regularly, and practice a fire escape plan with your family.
Prioritize Prevention
Preventing fires is always preferable to dealing with them. Invest in safety precautions, such as flame-retardant materials for upholstery and bedding, as well as fire extinguishers rated for home use. It’s always a good idea to regularly clean your dryer vents, chimney, and range hood filters to remove built-up lint, oil, and other flammables that can ignite.
Storm-Proof the Home
Mobile homes are more susceptible to damage from storms, particularly high winds. The first line of defense is understanding your local weather patterns. Familiarize yourself with the National Weather Service's storm warnings and ensure your home's ventilation, drainage, and thermal insulation systems are functioning optimally.
Prepare for High Winds and Hurricanes
For high wind protection, install storm shutters or impact-resistant glass on windows, use bracing techniques for entry doors, and have a safe room if possible. Additionally, getting a generator can keep essential systems running in case of power outages. Remember to trim trees and secure outdoor furniture to prevent them from becoming projectiles in strong winds. If living in a hurricane-prone area, consider investing in hurricane straps for your roof.
Don't wait until it's too late to protect and enhance your mobile home against the elements and unforeseen accidents. Mobile Home Outfitters provides a comprehensive range of products designed with your safety and your mobile home's longevity in mind. Among our most popular solutions is our durable and aesthetically pleasing mobile home skirting. It gives your home a finished look and plays a crucial role in insulation and protection from pests. Contact Mobile Home Outfitters today to see how we can help you protect your home with a little hard work!