Hurricane Maria alone caused $90 billion in damage and took over 1,000 lives from Dominica. Above ground storm shelters can keep you safer than you ever thought possible.
On average, 80 deaths each year are caused by the 1,000+ tornadoes that occur each year. Those numbers soar when it comes to other major weather events. Meanwhile, 36% of Americans don't have emergency preparedness plans.
Atlas Safe Rooms can protect you and your loved ones from weather-related harm. Here are 5 things you should know about above ground storm shelters:
1. Above Ground Storm Shelters Can Handle Serious Weight
Flying debris is one of the biggest risks involved in storms, especially during tornadoes.
If an above ground storm shelter is made according to FEMA guidelines, it can handle a 3,000-pound car without a problem.
In an underground storm shelter not up to snuff with FEMA guidelines, the car could easily make the storm shelter collapse into itself.
No matter what, make sure your storm shelter lives up to FEMA's standards.
2. Clear Entrance
Above ground storm shelters have entrances that are clearly marked. You simply walk into one and BAM! You're in a safe room.
To enter underground storm shelters, you have to pull a door from the ground and climb in. This isn't convenient when there's severe weather in your area.
In the event of a storm, an above ground storm shelter's entrance remains more visible, even with rubble and debris on top of it. Entrances to underground storm shelters can easily get covered by debris and missed by emergency rescue crews, thus leaving you trapped.
3. Accessible to Disabled People and the Elderly
An underground storm shelter is also not practical for people with mobility issues. An above ground storm shelter is your best bet, especially if you live with disabled or elderly persons.
The entrance to an above ground storm shelter is less stressful because you don't have to worry about falling and hurting yourself. This is notably important if you have mobility issues.
4. Safer From Floods
If a flood/heavy rains happen, an underground storm shelter can get filled with water. If the underground storm shelter isn't installed correctly, it can even pop out of the ground during flash floods.
Above ground storm shelters are built with floods in mind, making them capable of withstanding such conditions. Plus, they'll stay exactly where you install them.
5. Easier Installment and Portability
Overall, above ground storm shelters are easier to install then underground ones.
You can install an above ground storm shelter, then bring it to another location when you move. Many families have moved to different homes and brought their above ground storm shelters with them.
Underground storm shelters require you to dig a hole in your yard… then it stays there forever. You don't have the freedom to move an underground storm shelter as you choose.
Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones From Severe Weather
An average of 60 people are killed by tornadoes each year. Above ground storm shelters can save lives.
The Dixie Alley tornado broke a record of 335 fatalities by the time it was over. Don't let yourself become a statistic: get an above ground storm shelter.
Invest in your future and buy one now. You'll be glad you did.
