Preparing for an Earthquake in a Manufactured Home: Practical Steps and Resources

Living in a manufactured home does not exempt you from the risks associated with earthquakes. While these homes are designed to withstand transportation and basic structural stability, they may not be designed to resist the forces generated during a seismic event. Proper preparation is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. Here are some key steps and resources to help you prepare.

Ensure Earthquake-Rated Foundation

One of the first and most important steps in preparing for an earthquake is to ensure your manufactured home has an earthquake-rated foundation. In California, the Earthquake Resistant Bracing System (ERBS) has been used extensively to prevent the home from sliding off supports or moving enough to inhibit habitability. This can be a vital investment to protect your property and your family. More information about ERBS can be found on the California Polytechnic State University website.

Secure Heavy Furniture and Appliances

Securing heavy furniture and appliances is another crucial element of earthquake preparedness. Tall shelves, dressers, and appliances should be securely attached to walls to minimize the risk of falling and causing injury. However, it is important to avoid attaching anything to the exterior walls of the manufactured home without first consulting the manufacturer.

Manufactured homes are constructed on special jigs using a post-tensioning design, which is designed to distribute weight and provide strength. Attaching items to the exterior can invalidate the home's warranty and compromise its structural integrity. For instance, over-the-door awnings or lanai should not be added without the manufacturer's approval. Instead, you should look into specific support systems designed for securing appliances to the floor. Always communicate with the manufacturer and follow their guidelines.

Contact Local Emergency Management

Local emergency management offices can provide valuable information and resources for earthquake preparedness. These offices often offer specialized guidelines and training that are specific to the area's seismic risk. It's important to stay informed and follow their recommendations.

Develop a Comprehensive Emergency Plan

Along with structural preparation, developing a comprehensive emergency plan is essential. This should include:

Family/Friend Communication Plan: Ensure that all family members and friends know how to contact each other if separated during an emergency. Consider using digital communication platforms that require no physical equipment. Go Bags: Prepare and store emergency kits that include essential supplies such as water, food, medication, and first aid kits. Keep these bags in easily accessible locations. Pet Relocation Plan: If you have pets, make plans for their care during an emergency. Include food, water, and any necessary medications in your go bags and ensure that you have a safe place to take them. Other Common Sense Disaster Planning: Regularly review and practice your emergency plans to ensure everyone is prepared and knows what to do.

Additional Resources

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) plays a significant role in regulating manufactured housing. It is important to understand that 'mobile homes' no longer exist; the term 'manufactured homes' is used after 1977. This information is available on the HUD website, which is a valuable resource for further details on manufactured home safety and compliance.

For more detailed information, visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development website.