Keep Your Family Safe During Severe Weather Season
Severe weather season is here. At BASCO, we want to provide you with the best information available about how to keep your family safe during this dangerous time of year. One of the best investments you can make in your home to keep your family safe is with the installation of a FEMA approved storm shelter or safe room. Although both options can drastically improve your chances of remaining unharmed during a catastrophic event, your family may benefit more from one or the other, depending on your specific situation. In this brief article, we hope to explore the specifics and benefits of each so that you can make the best decision for your family.
What’s the difference? For the purposes of discussion in this article, a storm shelter is an area separate from the general construction of your living space that is specifically designed for use during a tornado or other catastrophic event. A storm shelter may be above ground or in ground and located in a garage or totally separate from your home. These improvements can typically be added to an existing home and take relatively little time to install. Safe rooms, on the other hand, are built into the actual structure of your home’s living space and can be as small as a closet or as large as an entire room. The installation of a safe room will typically take place during the home’s construction or during an extensive remodel. It is important to note that a safe room is different from a panic room, although it may function as one with some minor modifications. In order for a shelter or safe room to be FEMA certified, it must meet certain requirements, which can be found here.
Which one is right for you? If your home is already complete, assuming you’re not willing to do a ground-up remodel of one or more rooms in your home, a storm shelter is really your only option. They are extremely cost-effective and can be installed in as little as one day. Whether in-ground or above ground, storm shelters are a safe and effective option to protect you from storms and other catastrophic events. If you are still in the planning stages of building a home, or are willing to remodel an entire area of your home, a safe room is a great option. Although they are more costly, safe rooms are also typically more comfortable and more easily accessible during an emergency situation since they are already built into your home. Speaking with a BASCO Professional will help you determine what all of your options are, and many can even help you find financing options to help make your project affordable. If you are interested in learning more about how to protect your family with a storm shelter or safe room, contact BASCO today!
