In early August 2023, a series of devastating wildfires broke out on the island of Maui in the state of Hawai’i. Driven by high winds and hot weather, the fires destroyed over 2,200 structures and resulted in $5.5 billion in damages. More tragically, the wildfires killed 102 people and left thousands without homes.
The town of Lahaina on Maui’s northwest coast bore the brunt of the damage. Aid workers answered the call immediately, and Relief Bed International was one of the first organizations to help local families find shelter and accommodations after being displaced.
ESS Universal partnered with Relief Bed to provide 100 relief beds. These beds gave stranded families comfortable spaces to rest and recuperate before rebuilding their homes.
Threats of wildfires, hurricanes, and other natural disasters continue to cause concern in the United States and abroad. When families lose their long-time homes, even the most modest contributions can make a big difference. Shelters and sleeping facilities, especially, are urgently needed.
Bunk beds are especially beneficial in these times of crisis. They’re ideal temporary replacements for permanent sleeping accommodations. Providing victims with comfortable bunk beds in shelters and community centers can be the first step in the rebuilding process.
Here are a few more reasons bunk beds should be part of emergency response protocol.
Space Maximization
One of the most valuable traits of bunk beds is their efficient use of space. In a refuge that hosts hundreds of people after a devastating natural disaster, space is perhaps the ultimate premium. Bunk beds are compact enough to leave room to maneuver but comfortable enough to support sound sleeping.
Public shelters can organize bunk beds in several configurations to save space. While single-over-single bunks are solid solutions, single-over-double or triple bunk beds can accommodate more people. There are many versatile ways to arrange emergency shelter bunk beds for maximum space and efficiency.
Accommodating All Ages
Many bunk beds at big-box retailers are designed for children. They are not only uncomfortable for taller adults but also can’t support the full weight of many people.
Disasters affect those of all ages and sizes, requiring larger sleeping platforms with sturdier construction. Emergency shelter bunk beds are designed to suit both adults and children.
Made of strong materials and offering features like metal mesh panels, cross members, guard rails, and resilient, sturdy frames, ESS Universal bunk beds for shelters can withstand up to 500 pounds. These ultra-safe elements make bunk beds ideal for large facilities that host disaster victims.
Resistant to Typical Bunk Bed Problems
Ordinary bunk beds are susceptible to a wide range of issues. They may be prone to fire or water damage. Additionally, beds in shared facilities are more likely to host unhealthy pest infestations.
With all the activity that takes place in a housing shelter, staff shouldn’t have to spend time combating an infestation or arranging for bed and mattress replacements.
ESS Universal bunk beds are made from metal and are securely welded at every corner and intersection. That alone helps prevent damage from pests and moisture. They also last longer than residential bunk beds. For each of a temporary shelter’s needs, our steel bunks meet that call.
Comfortable and Clean Mattresses
ESS Universal provides comfortable foam mattresses to fit our bunk beds. These waterproof foam mattresses are also insect-resistant, reducing the chance of bed bug and other pest infestations. Our mattresses are fully sealed and impermeable, keeping more bugs out and protecting against pest-related health problems.
In the face of widescale disasters and turbulent weather, aid workers and the people they help deserve to have safe quarters. In that spirit, emergency shelter bunk beds can be vital sources of comfort and rest as communities begin rebuilding.
ESS Universal manufactures and supplies high-quality, cost-effective commercial grade beds, mattresses, and furniture to camps, hostels, shelters, dorms and more. View our entire line of furniture products including our popular waterproof foam mattress for institutional use, single metal bed frames, single over single bunk beds, single over double bunk beds, and triple bunk beds. Download our catalog for detailed information on our complete product line.
