Noting that fires move more quickly in small spaces, Tennessee State Fire Marshal and Commerce and Insurance Commissioner Julie Mix McPeak is urging the 250,000 residents of manufactured housing in the state to install smoke alarms and plan an escape route in case of a fire. The news release through equities says although manufactured homes are no more prone to have a fire than site-built, the smaller space leaves less time to escape. In 2012 there were 368 manufactured home fires reported resulting in 14 deaths, 19 non-fatal injuries, and causing $5.4 million in property damages. The state tells MHProNews each bedroom and every family/living room should have a fire alarm and they should all be wied together so when one sounds they all sound. The first safety tip listed in the news release is when shopping for a manufactured home, make sure you buy one manufactured after June 15, 1976 that has a HUD label certifying it meets minimum standards.
