Storm Shelter Options: What is Available

Being prepared for serious storms and other disasters is very important for people to do. While local emergency management systems will do their best to help you out after a disaster strikes, with so many people needing assistance you need to be able to take care of yourself, off the grid for at least the first 24 for 48 hours. One way you can do this is to add a storm shelter to your property. There are three main types of storm shelters to choose from an above ground storm shelter, an in-house storm shelter and an underground storm shelter. The type of storm shelter that you select needs to make sense for the hazards that your region is at risk for.

Underground Storm Shelters

When most people think about a storm shelter they think of an underground bomb shelter style design. These shelters are useful if your storms are related to high speed winds, like tornadoes. However, if your area is prone to flooding an underground storm shelter is not the right option. When designing an underground storm shelter you will need to think about air filtration systems, lighting, autonomous energy generation and water filtration systems. You will also need to think about how to landscape the area above the storm shelter to both allow easy access when you need it and to make it an organic part of your landscaping so that it doesn't stick out or detract from the appeal of your landscaping.

In-House Storm Shelters

The second storm shelter option that you have is an in-house storm shelter. In-house storm shelters, also referred to as safe rooms, are special rooms that are built into the design of an existing structure. It is designed with thick wall which will withstand high winds and which will repel flying debris. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding and tornadoes or to hurricanes then this is a great option. In-house storm shelters are an affordable alternative to a free standing or an underground storm shelter, and some states within the notorious Tornado Alley offer grants to help cover a part of the expense of adding these rooms to your home.

Above Ground Storm Shelters

Above ground storm shelters are a great option for homeowners that don't want to add a safe room to their home or that can't add an underground shelter to their yard. They set up like a module shed and some can be designed so that you can drive a vehicle into them. Above ground storm shelters generally are a self-contained unit with its own water filtration, sewage and air filtration systems. Many of these units come in module designs so that you can add specific features to your storm shelter easily and for a reasonable price. Some of the features to consider include: storm shelter garages, power generators, air filtration systems, independent sewage treatment, sleeping areas, kitchens and storage areas.