Currently FEMA has around 140,000 travel trailers wasting away in fields at an annual cost to the taxpayer of $70 million. A better use for these trailers would be to give them away to people living in hurricane-susceptible flood zones throughout the United States.

When an evacuation is ordered, folks could pack up these trailers with food, water, grandma’s dishes and other valuables and hit the road for higher ground. Those with towing vehicles could haul the trailer and friends and neighbors could follow in additional vehicles if necessary. Once out of harm's way the units could be parked in a safe location and lived in until the storm passes.  

This strategy would transform the concept of hurricane evacuations. Rather than loathe the idea of packing into a car and heading off for a relative’s couch or cramped hotel room, evacuees could look forward to going RVing and spending some quality time with friends, neighbors and family. Sure the thought of what might happen to the home would weigh heavily on peoples’ minds, and it would be far from the ideal getaway. That said, having emergency evacuation units could make the situation a lot less stressful and costly...and for those fortunate enough to get spared any storm damage, it could prove to be a real 'silver lining' experience.

Unfortunately hurricanes are here to stay. If we wish to continue living along the coast we should consider adopting adaptive ways to cope with Mother Nature. The use of surplus travel trailers as emergency evacuation units is a viable option that should be given serious consideration.