• -
A safe room

Safe Room Customization: Turning Safety into Comfort

When it comes to safety, a safe room is one of the best investments you can make for your family. Whether you’re building a new home or adding to an existing one, a custom safe room can be designed to meet your specific needs while providing ultimate protection during emergencies. From choosing the right size and layout to adding special features like communication tools and comfort elements, customizing your safe rooms in Oklahoma allows you to blend safety with practicality.

Personalizing the Space: Size and Layout

The first step in creating your custom safe room is determining the size. The room must be spacious enough to fit everyone in your household, including pets, as well as any emergency supplies you may need. Think about how many people will be using the room at once and how much storage space you’ll need for essential items like food, water, first-aid kits, and flashlights.

A well-thought-out layout can ensure that the room feels comfortable even in stressful situations. Plan where to store supplies and leave space for easy movement. The layout should include built-in shelves or cabinets to keep everything organized and within easy reach during an emergency.

A safe room

Comfort Features for Your Safe Room

While protection is the top priority, adding comfort elements can make a world of difference, especially if you need to spend an extended period in the room. Adding comfortable seating, such as foldable chairs or cushions, ensures that you have a place to rest during long storms. For lighting, choose battery-operated or solar-powered fixtures that can work even if there’s a power outage.

Incorporating a simple ventilation system is also essential. Proper airflow ensures that the room stays breathable, especially if you’re using the safe room for an extended time. A quiet fan or air filtration system can help keep the space fresh and comfortable.

Safety Features and Communication Tools

Safety features are critical in any safe room. Strong, reinforced doors and windows are essential for withstanding strong winds and flying debris during a storm. The walls should be constructed using materials that meet or exceed safety standards for tornado protection. Make sure to choose a safe room that is specifically designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds and impact from debris.

Having a reliable communication system is also a must. A landline or a satellite phone can provide a direct line to emergency services if needed. Some people opt to install an intercom system or even a two-way radio to communicate with family members outside the safe room or to contact first responders. Adding a power supply or backup battery to charge your devices ensures that you’ll have access to information, even in the event of a power outage.

Storage and Organization

In addition to the essentials like food and water, your safe room should provide adequate space to store important documents, such as birth certificates, insurance policies, and other irreplaceable items. Designated compartments for these items can help you stay organized during an emergency. You can also add a small safe for valuables, ensuring they remain protected in the event of a disaster.

Get Started with Oklahoma Shelters

Oklahoma Shelters specializes in custom safe rooms tailored to your needs. We offer high-quality, durable, safe rooms that are designed to provide maximum protection for you and your family. Our team can help you build a safe room that fits your specifications, with a focus on comfort, safety, and functionality. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you design the perfect safe room for your home.

 


  • -
A picture showing a gray concrete flagstone with a handle placed for its opening

Essential Features to Look for in a Concrete Storm Shelter

Having a dependable storm shelter is crucial for safeguarding you and your loved ones during severe weather events. Concrete storm shelters are among the most reliable choices for safety in areas like Oklahoma where severe storms are a frequent hazard. But not every storm shelter is made equally. Making the best decision requires knowing the essential components that guarantee the effectiveness of your shelter. Let’s discover some of them.

Ventilation: An essential part of any concrete storm shelter is adequate ventilation. Insufficient ventilation can cause the shelter’s air to become stale, which can be uncomfortable or even dangerous, especially in small areas. Good ventilation systems lower carbon dioxide accumulation and help maintain oxygen levels.

You should search for concrete tornado shelter in Oklahoma that have air vents positioned at key locations inside the shelter or models with adjustable vents. They permit natural airflow while excluding dust and debris. Additionally, some shelters have powered fans that aid in air circulation.

Insulation: An essential component that keeps the concrete storm shelter at a comfortable temperature all year long is insulation. Depending on the season, your shelter may become intolerably hot or cold without additional insulation because concrete itself can be a poor insulator.

Selecting a concrete tornado shelter in Oklahoma with integrated insulation guarantees your comfort and protection from the harsh weather conditions. Spray-in insulation or foam can help keep the interior warm in the winter and cool during summer storms. Insulation also increases the shelter’s energy efficiency, reducing the need for outside heating or cooling systems.

Proper Drainage: Adequate drainage is another crucial component of a reliable concrete storm shelter. In areas like Oklahoma, where severe storms are accompanied by heavy rainfall, standing water becomes a major problem. This can result in rust, flooding, and other possible safety risks.

Make sure your concrete storm shelter has a dependable drainage system to avoid these problems. The foundation should be made to divert water away from the interior of the shelter, and the shelter should be positioned so that water naturally flows away from the entrance.

 A concrete bunker with a handle for easy opening, surrounded by soil, with a tractor in the background

Strength and Durability: The most crucial feature of a concrete storm shelter is its ability to endure the intense force of a storm. Steel rebar must be used to reinforce the concrete used in the shelter for maximum durability. Storm shelters should be tested to meet local building codes to make sure they can withstand winds greater than 250 mph.

It’s crucial to confirm the concrete storm shelter’s certification. Many concrete tornado shelters are constructed in accordance with FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) standards to provide the best level of protection during severe weather conditions.

Shield Yourself from Storms: Must-Have Features of a Concrete Storm Shelter

A reliable storm shelter is a necessity, not a luxury, when it comes to your safety. It can make all the difference with the unpredictable weather in Oklahoma. Consider Oklahoma Shelters for unparalleled safety during such severe weather conditions.

We provide concrete storm shelters equipped with essential features like ventilation, insulation, and proper drainage. Prioritizing these elements will ensure your shelter remains a safe, comfortable haven during the most severe storms. Your family’s safety is worth the best, and with our experts, you’ll be ready for whatever the weather brings.

Ready to invest in your peace of mind? Contact us today to find the perfect storm shelter that offers unbeatable protection.


  • -
The entrance to a storm shelter

Understanding the Different Types of Tornado Shelters: What You Need to Know

When it comes to ensuring your safety during severe weather, having the right tornado shelter in okc is crucial. With the frequent occurrence of tornadoes in Oklahoma, understanding the types of tornado shelters available can help you make informed decisions about your safety. In this blog, we’ll break down the various options, including above-ground, underground, and garage shelters, and highlight their pros and cons.

1. Above-Ground Tornado Shelters

Above-ground tornado shelters are typically built from strong materials, such as steel or reinforced concrete. This type of tornado shelter is designed to withstand high winds and flying debris.

Pros:

  • Accessibility: Above-ground shelters are often easier to access, especially for individuals with mobility challenges.
  • Quick Exit: In the event of an emergency, it’s faster to reach an above-ground shelter than to descend into the ground.

Cons:

  • Space Constraints: Some above-ground shelters may take up valuable yard space and can be more conspicuous.
  • Potential Risk: In extreme tornadoes, above-ground shelters can be more susceptible to damage from falling trees or debris.

2. Underground Tornado Shelters

In-ground storm shelter, such as concrete storm shelters, are highly popular for their robust protection. These types of tornado shelters are buried beneath the ground, providing a safe haven during tornadoes and offering maximum protection from severe storms.

Pros:

  • Maximum Safety: Underground shelters offer superior protection against high winds and flying debris, making them one of the safest options available.
  • Space Efficiency: Since they are buried underground, these shelters save yard space and are less visible.
  • Temperature Control: The underground environment typically stays cooler, providing comfort during long waits.

Cons:

  • Accessibility: Entering an underground shelter can be challenging for those with mobility issues, especially in emergencies.
  • Water Infiltration: Proper drainage and waterproofing are essential to avoid flooding in underground shelters.

An underground storm shelter

3. Garage Tornado Shelters

Garage tornado shelters are also a form of underground storm shelters in okc installed within the concrete floor of your garage. They are ideal for families who prefer easy access during storms without sacrificing yard space.

Pros:

  • Convenience: These shelters are located inside the garage, offering quick and easy access without leaving your home during a storm.
  • Space Efficiency: They make use of existing garage space, keeping your yard free from large structures.
  • Underground Safety: Like other underground shelters, garage shelters provide excellent protection against tornadoes and high winds.

Cons:

  • Garage Limitations: The garage itself needs to be structurally sound during a storm, as damage to the garage could compromise access to the shelter.
  • Accessibility Challenges: Although located conveniently in the garage, getting into the shelter during an emergency can still be difficult for some, especially with stairs involved.

Making an Informed Choice

Choosing the right tornado shelter depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Understanding the types of tornado shelters—above-ground, underground, and garage shelters—helps you make informed decisions for your safety. Consider factors like accessibility, space, and the level of protection needed when selecting your shelter.

At Oklahoma Shelters, we are committed to providing you with the best options for tornado safety. Whether you’re looking for an underground cement shelters in OK, need garage shelters for sale, or prefer an above-ground safe room, we have the right solution for you. Contact us today to discuss your needs and ensure your family is prepared for any storm!

 

 


Storm Shelters

Underground Slope Top Shelter

Concrete Shelter

Underground Garage Shelter

Garage Shelter

Installing Steel Safe Room

Steel Safe Room

Underground Bunker

Underground Bunker

 

Customer Reviews

400+ 5 Star Google Customer Reviews

Google Review

Powered by Google

James Benton
Our friends recommend them and they did an excellent job

Roberto Peralta
The best company I've ever dealt with, you will not regret it.

Rohan Papaly
A truly fantastic company!

Laura Jane Lamb Atchley
It is rare to find a business as professional, service oriented, and motivated to do quality work as Oklahoma Shelters! 

Lauren Anderson
They were great and I highly recommend.

Michele Walton
We were very pleased with our new storm shelter. 

See More Reviews