Credit FEMA
# 6230
Although I preach preparedness there is admittedly one glaring lapse in my own emergency preparations . . . my current accommodations preclude my having a `safe room’ – designed to protect occupants against tornadoes and hurricanes.
When I lived in Missouri – which gets its fair share of tornadoes – having a full basement/storm shelter was both practical and a great comfort.
But here in Florida – where the water table is so high – basements are rarely practical.
EF-3 or Greater Tornado Threat – Credit FEMA
Florida is less at risk for big tornadoes (we have a fair number of small twisters), but is a frequent target of hurricanes. Therefore, when I do eventually move again, one of my hopes is that I can incorporate a hardened safe room to my preparations.
With memories of last year’s devastating tornado season still fresh, now is a good time to consider this potentially life-saving addition to your home. To that end, FEMA has a good deal of advice on exactly how to construct a safe room – either above or below ground.
Residential Safe Rooms
Having a safe room in your home can protect your family and save the lives of those you care about.
Find answers to your Questions about Building a Safe Room, including:
What is the cost of installing a safe room?
Can I install a safe room in an existing home?
Can I build the safe room myself?
Where is the best location for the safe room?
Where can I find plans for safe room construction?
And more....
Building a Safe Room in Your House
For more details about how you can build a safe room in your home, go to the Taking Shelter From the Storm: Building a Safe Room For Your Home or Small Business (FEMA 320) page before downloading it from the FEMA Library.
Residential Funding Opportunities
Grants, funding opportunities and various initiatives are available for individuals wishing to build a residential safe room. See the resources below for additional information:
Examples and Case Studies
Learn how others have benefited from safe rooms. See the following resources on the best practices case study web page.
