What shelter space per person is recommended for housing during an emergency?

• A. 20 sq ft
• B. 30 sq ft
• C. 40 sq ft
• D. 50 sq ft

Answer: (B)

Providing adequate shelter space per person is essential for safety, health, and comfort in emergency housing. You want enough room for a sleeping mat and some clearance to move, plus space to store a few personal items and to walk to exits and facilities. This level of space helps keep privacy, improves ventilation, and reduces crowding-related risks such as accidents, sleep disturbance, and the spread of illness. If the space is too tight, sleeping is uncomfortable, belongings become cluttered, and access to sanitation and egress is hindered. If spaces were much larger, shelter capacity would drop, leaving more people without a place to stay. The recommended approach balances safety with the practical need to shelter as many people as possible, making it the best choice for emergency housing.