• Ensure your storm shelter is certified to FEMA standards and other applicable organizations. This will guarantee that you are safe no matter what kind of severe weather pops up. Check for appropriate certifications and long-lasting build materials.

• Let occupants, supplies, and future needs determine the shelter size. There’s no use in buying too big or too small a storm shelter. Avoid tight quarters that may lead to physical distress in an emergency.

• If your storm shelter requires installation, hire only qualified professionals, and make sure that installation is compliant with local building codes. Never attempt a DIY installation unless you’re confident you can do so safely and effectively.

• Make sure to balance cost with quality by weighing the features and safety ratings. Don’t sacrifice safety for cost, as this can often result in increased expense or danger down the line.

• Consider adding accessibility options such as ramps or wider doors if you have family members with mobility challenges. Make sure everyone can get to the shelter quickly and safely.

• Make a habit to inspect and maintain your storm shelter regularly to catch any problems and ensure it’s always operational. Don’t put off inspections. This may seem obvious, but failure to conduct regular inspections can put shelter occupants at risk.

These five mistakes to avoid when buying your first storm shelter will help you make the right choice. Storm shelters offer protection during dangerous weather conditions, but with so many options available, purchasing one can be an intimidating process.

Too often, first-time buyers fall into traps that cost them extra money or place their safety in jeopardy. From choosing the incorrect size to failing to consider installation needs, these mistakes can lead to dangerous consequences for years to come.

Knowing what not to do will ensure you make a smart purchase. In this guide, we’ll walk you through five of the biggest mistakes to avoid when buying your first storm shelter.

Are you in the path of an incoming tornado or hurricane? Avoid these five common mistakes to ensure your storm shelter will protect your family when it’s needed most.

Importance of Choosing the Right Shelter

Selecting the appropriate storm shelter is a decision that goes beyond a typical home renovation project. It’s a very important first step in protecting your family from nature’s deadliest phenomenon. A deeply constructed, well-engineered shelter is your best protection against tornadoes.

It’s an unending onslaught that currently brings a perpetual risk of tornadic storms to the states of Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. When there are over 1,200 tornadoes reported each year in the United States, having a dependable shelter is not only wise, but essential. FamilySAFE shelters have demonstrated their strength by surviving direct impacts from EF4 and EF5 rated tornadoes.

They can take a bullet or withstand winds over 250 mph without taking a scratch! Far from mere protection, the right shelter can improve your home’s safety and even its value. As a result, many prospective homebuyers in tornado-prone areas often look for houses with storm shelters, considering them a necessary short-term investment.

Shelters such as those provided by Swisher offer almost unquestionable safety, with even more peace of mind. Have a minimum five-day supply of non-perishable food and water on hand. Taking this important step makes you more ready and resilient, particularly in communities like Owasso, Oklahoma, where tornadoes can develop rapidly and with little warning.

Putting an impact-absorbing shelter under your investment is the proactive thing to do, protecting your home today and your family’s tomorrow.

Understanding Common Mistakes

1. Ignoring Safety Standards

A storm shelter’s primary role is to ensure safety during extreme weather events, particularly in tornado-prone areas like tornado alley. This is why compliance with rigorous safety standards, such as those set by FEMA, is of utmost importance. FEMA-compliant tornado shelters are thoroughly tested to withstand EF5 tornadoes with wind speeds exceeding 250 mph, offering the highest level of safety assurance.

When selecting a shelter, it’s essential to seek out appropriate certifications and confirm that materials like reinforced steel or concrete are robust enough to resist high-impact debris. Avoid using shelters that lack documentation of safety, as they may collapse when it matters most, especially during severe storms.

For example, if a shelter is poorly designed, doors could jam under pressure, obstructing escape routes or delaying access for first responders, which highlights the importance of proper tornado preparedness.

2. Choosing the Wrong Size

In a storm shelter, space makes a big difference. FEMA insists on 5 square feet of space per person for community shelters. For family travel, be sure to include additional space for comfort and items.

Consider long-term needs, such as expanding your family or needing more emergency supplies, like water or first-aid kits. Cramped shelters raise stress levels further, particularly during extreme weather.

Tens of thousands walked away from that storm, but flying debris and shattered glass travel far beyond the area of impact. That’s why having enough storage for safety gear is so important.

3. Overlooking Installation Requirements

No matter what material you choose, proper installation is key. Above-ground shelters need anchoring to survive extreme wind forces, and below-ground shelters need to stay clear of a high water table.

DIY construction invites potential structural failure and is a great way to violate local regulations—always hire professionals who understand local rules.

4. Focusing Only on Cost

Focusing on affordability at the expense of quality nearly always backfires. Cheaper shelters are often not built to last or need expensive maintenance, negating any long-term savings.

Instead, shop between safety ratings and durability in addition to price to make sure you’re protected.

5. Forgetting Accessibility Features

Accessibility allows everyone to navigate the shelter comfortably and safely. Ramps or wide doorways make it easier for people with mobility impairments to visit.

Without these, evacuation may turn deadly, including in the midst of mass panic.

Assessing Personal and Family Needs

Evaluate Family Size and Space Needs

When deciding on a storm shelter, consider how many people it should accommodate. Begin with your normal household size and add anyone you expect might move in during a storm. Everyone needs a minimum of five feet of personal space to safely navigate and move.

For a family of four, at least 20 square feet is required. That said, it’s smart to plan for more space, particularly if you have pets or stockpiles of supplies. You’ll want space for seating and storage but you’ll want to leave room to avoid feeling cramped.

Especially in an emergency, a crowded shelter can stress a family even further. If you have pets, make sure to include them in your plans. Get pet carriers or make a space for them. With the right planning in place, people of all ages and abilities can remain safe and cozy.

Consider Special Accessibility Requirements

Consider the needs of all members of your family, especially those with mobility issues. If a person uses a wheelchair, make sure the shelter’s entrance is at least 36 inches wide and includes a ramp or comparable access.

Simple features such as handrails or non-slip flooring can heavily impact home safety. For instance, quick access is important, so test if the door design can facilitate quick entry with no hindrance. By ignoring accessibility, we risk pushing safety further away when it matters most.

Plan for Emergency Storage

In many ways, storage is the key to life itself. Store at least five days’ worth of non-perishable emergency food supplies and bottled water in your shelter. Plan on at least one gallon of water per person, per day, stored in strong, sealed containers.

Pack personal and family needs, such as first aid kits, personal prescription medications, flashlights and spare batteries. For families with other medical needs, include items such as inhalers or EpiPens.

Arrange your supplies so they’re readily accessible in case of an emergency. Avoiding storage will only leave you scrambling when it counts the most.

Ensuring Compliance with Safety Guidelines

Check Certification and Ratings

When purchasing a storm shelter, ensure that it has been tested and certified by accepted safety agencies. Shelters adhering to FEMA P-320, FEMA P-361, and ICC 500 standards are specifically designed to handle the force of EF5 tornadoes.

These guidelines make certain that the shelter is designed to protect you from the highest possible wind speed and flying projectiles. Steel shelters, such as the ones built by Swisher, provide unparalleled durability and resistance to the elements.

FEMA notes that every shelter they’ve built to their standards have stood up well. This highlights the importance of certification in ensuring that safety is a top priority. Don’t settle for uncertified alternatives, which can leave you unprotected when the worst weather strikes.

Verify Structural Integrity

Pay special attention to the shelter’s furnishings and design. High-quality steel plates are an excellent option when you need something that can stand up to punishing environments.

Review design features that increase structural integrity. Stay away from shelters with indications of bad craftsmanship, such as poorly fitting panels or flimsy connections.

Natural ventilation is one of the most important features for any emergency shelter to keep people safe, as FEMA mandates. Regular maintenance is required as well to keep the shelter in good working order and help it last through the years.

Confirm Compliance with Local Regulations

Local building codes can be different, so do your research on what’s required in your area before making a purchase. Work with local authorities to make sure your shelter is compliant with legal guidelines and that sheltering will not result in fines or unsafe conditions.

Shelters that operate outside of local regulations impose needless dangers. Prioritize models that meet these federal safety regulations.

Key Features to Look For

Durability and Material Quality

The materials used in your storm shelter are a big part of how it protects you. Reinforced concrete and steel have become the material of choice for these structures due to their exceptional strength and enduring durability. These materials offer, quote, “near-absolute protection from wind and wind-borne debris for occupants.

Steel, for example, doesn’t bend or break under intense pressure, and reinforced concrete can take a big hit. Some shelters even use a combination of the two materials for extra protection. It’s key to look at what the materials can withstand when it comes to environmental hurdles, such as the effects of rust and moisture.

Paint steel shelters to mitigate rust, particularly in coastal or wet climates. Treat concrete models with water-resistant treatments to prevent them from cracking. Selecting a shelter that can survive several inches of inundation is a smart choice. This is particularly important for houses that are in areas often hit by floods.

Huts built from inferior materials can collapse in extreme conditions, jeopardizing your safety. Thin metal or untreated wood may appear inexpensive upfront, but won’t have the strength to withstand extreme conditions over time.

Ventilation and Airflow

Proper airflow is imperative in any storm shelter. Without it, the air quality indoors can worsen rapidly, particularly over longer periods of usage. Choose styles with integrated ventilation that let fresh air in but keep debris and water out. Most animal shelters are already built with air filtration systems.

These systems do a great job at safeguarding against airborne particles like dust and allergens. Ventilation systems need to be opened enough to let air and people flow, yet secure enough to prevent unwanted guests. For example, vents located near the top of walls can add cooling airflow without exposing the shelter to flooding or debris.

Appropriate ventilation protects occupants from the risk of suffocation, a key danger in well-sealed environments. Shelters lacking these attributes may feel like a safe option, but may actually be a death trap during times of crisis.

Ease of Maintenance

It may not seem like maintenance is the most important thing to look for in a reliable storm shelter, but it is crucial. A shelter that requires overwhelming maintenance can become a major headache down the road. Choose products that are simple to clean and service, such as those with smooth interior surfaces that make cleaning easier and rust-proof coatings that cut down on the need for regular touch-ups.

A resilient storm shelter should require little to no maintenance to remain operational, ensuring it’s available during tornado season when you need it the most. Scheduling regular inspections is a key step forward in tornado preparedness. Look for signs of deterioration, such as cracks in concrete or rust on metal surfaces, to address issues while they’re still manageable.

Inadequate maintenance not only compromises the shelter’s longevity but potentially its safety as well. Basic design features, such as removable floor panels or access to vents in commercial tornado shelters, go a long way in simplifying maintenance.

Installation and Upkeep

Remember too that installation is just as crucial as the shelter you choose. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and have your lift professionally installed to ensure safety and code compliance. One practical solution is to install the shelter in a basement or crawl space, allowing for an easy-to-access shelter.

Now imagine trying to add a steel-reinforced safe room to the back of your home. It makes for an excellent choice for families wanting to keep their adventures above ground. After it’s installed, periodic maintenance inspections will catch any issues before your shelter is damaged.

These inspections can help catch small issues before they become bigger problems such as structural damage or blocked vents. A little fissure on a concrete barrier might seem innocuous. It’s something that can spread over time, undermining the integrity of the shelter.

Skipping this step can jeopardize the shelter’s capacity to protect you in your times of emergency.

Tips for Installation and Maintenance

Choose the Right Location

Choosing the optimal location for your storm shelter is crucial to making sure your storm haven is ready when you need it most. Begin by surveying your property to determine locations that are easily reachable yet secure. Install it close to your house.

A garage or other secure indoor location is best, since you’ll need to access it quickly when bad weather hits. Avoid outdoor spaces prone to flooding, including low-lying areas of your property. Floodwater can pose a threat to the structural integrity of your refuge.

Additionally, consider barriers. Unimpeded routes are important so that all members of your family can enter home without any wait time. For instance, having a shelter installed close to an exterior wall and away from stored materials provides less impediment during an emergency evacuation.

Hire Professional Installers

Hiring specialists for installation can save you from making expensive errors. Find contractors that have proven experience with FEMA P-320, FEMA P-361, and ICC 500 standards. Their expertise will ensure you receive the utmost safety.

Take familySAFE shelters, for example, installation is performed solely by HILTI-trained professionals providing an added sense of security. Make appointments to find the best fit for your needs and verify that the contractor will meet your local code requirements.

Don’t attempt to install yourself without specialized tools and expertise—leave DIY installation to certified pros.

Schedule Regular Inspections

Regularly scheduled inspections will ensure your shelter looks its best and stands the test of time for years to come. Inspect your system for any structural defects such as cracks or leaks and take pictures of the appearance to keep warranties intact.

Rotate emergency supplies such as water and first aid kits every year so you’re always prepared. Failure to conduct regular maintenance may result in wear and tear going undetected, making the shelter less safe and reliable.

Since 1998 over 20,000 FamilySAFE shelters have been installed. Due to this consistent maintenance, these shelters have continued to serve their purpose, even standing up to direct EF5 tornado impacts.

Conclusion

Purchasing your first storm shelter is an exciting yet intimidating experience. A little time spent dodging these pitfalls will keep more of your cash—and family—out of harm’s way. Learn more about what’s most important—safety ratings, how to find the best fit for your family, and what features you want to fit your space. The little things, such as installation and maintenance, go a long way—literally saving lives in the long run.

Remember, your safety begins with educated decisions. Follow these tips to inform your purchase, and ensure your home is ready when severe weather strikes.

Buying your first storm shelter is too important to guess. JT Services can help you choose the right option for your home, your family, and your safety needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the biggest mistakes to avoid when buying a storm shelter?

One mistake people make is not recognizing the importance of independent safety certification for tornado shelters. Always verify that the shelter you’re buying meets FEMA or ICC-500 standards and is appropriate for your family’s tornado preparedness needs.

How can I ensure a storm shelter meets safety guidelines?

Look for FEMA or ICC-500 compliance to ensure your ground storm shelter can protect you from tornadoes and hurricanes. Always check the safety standards before purchasing tornado shelter supplies.

What key features should I look for in a storm shelter?

Focus on materials for tornado shelters, ventilation options, and access. Look for heavy-duty steel or reinforced concrete in the construction process. Ensure adequate airflow systems and accessible entry points for rapid deployment during tornado preparedness.

How do I determine the right size storm shelter for my family?

FEMA recommends a minimum of 5 square feet per person for tornado shelters. For instance, a family of four would need at least 20 square feet in their safe room.

Why is professional installation important for storm shelters?

This is especially important because professional installation of residential tornado shelters will ensure the shelter is anchored properly and will conform to local building codes. Even the strongest tornado shelter can be made dangerous by improper installation during an extreme weather event.

Can I install a storm shelter in an existing home?

Yes, a good number of tornado shelters are designed for retrofitting. Above-ground and garage-anchored shelters serve as reliable storm shelters for installation in existing homes without extensive remodels.

How often should I maintain my storm shelter?

Inspect your storm shelter, including residential tornado shelters, at least once a year for rust, leaks, or other damage. Prevent overgrowth to ensure easy access to your secure shelter when needed.