How to Create a Safe Room in Your House

A safe room or panic room can be an essential way to protect your family from a tornado, hurricane or other disaster. If you’re thinking about adding one to your home, here’s what to consider.

Do I Need a Storm Shelter for My Home?

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), you should ask yourself:

• What is your risk of tornadoes, hurricanes or high winds in your area?
• What safety options do you currently have?
• Are you willing to accept the risks of not having a safe room?
• Is it feasible to install a safe room? 

What Safe Room Construction Options Do I Have?

You can add a safe room to your home, garage, carport or patio. You can also choose an in-ground or above ground prefabricated safe room.

FEMA estimates these costs for a safe room:

• $5,000 to $6,000 for a 4x6 foot, above-ground prefab safe room
• $9,400 to $13,100 for an 8x8 foot safe room as part of a new home
• $18,900 to $25,500 for a 14x14 foot safe room as part of a new home

Costs are higher to add a safe room to an existing home.

Whatever type you choose, the walls, door, hinges, hardware and anchors need to be strong, durable and able to stand up to the force of high winds, and everything needs to be installed properly. FEMA points out that a safe room is like a chain — it’s only as strong as its weakest link.

Where Should a Safe Room Be Located?

You can install your safe room inside or outside of your house. If it’s outside, FEMA recommends locating it 150 feet or less from the closest exit from the home, since you may be facing high winds, blowing debris, heavy rain or hail. You don’t want it to be too far away when you need to access it.

Interior safe rooms can be above ground or in the basement. However, do not build your safe room in an area where it could be flooded by a hurricane or severe thunderstorm. If you choose an in-ground, prefabricated safe room, make sure the ground slopes away from the entrance so stormwater doesn’t get inside it.

You may be able to convert a closet, interior bathroom or small storage room into a safe room. This type of panic room design means you can use the space for other purposes when you don’t need it for storm protection.

How Big Should a Safe Room Be?

The size of your safe room depends on the threat you face and the number of people you expect will be in it. FEMA recommends:

• At least 3 square feet of floor space per person for tornadoes, since these storms don’t usually last very long, so you don’t need a lot of space for comfort.
• At least 7 square feet of floor space per person for hurricanes since they can last 24 hours or longer.

What Should You Keep in a Safe Room?

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors suggests stocking your DIY safe room with:

• Bottled water
• Non-perishable foods (be sure to include a can opener)
• Cell phone and charger
• Two-way radio
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Any needed medication
• Blankets and other comfort items
• A bucket and toilet paper, since most safe rooms don’t include plumbing

Make Sure Your Property Is Protected

A safe room can protect your family from being injured or killed in a dangerous storm. But what about your property? Reach out to a local Farm Bureau agent today to make sure your home and vehicles are properly covered against damage from tornadoes, hurricanes and high winds.