Quick Answer
A tornado shelter and a safe room are both designed for protection, but a tornado shelter is a dedicated, freestanding structure, usually underground, while a safe room is an interior room in a building that provides a similar level of protection.
Design and Construction Differences
Tornado shelters are typically built with reinforced steel and concrete to withstand the extreme forces of a tornado. They are usually underground, often with a concrete slab on top, to offer protection from flying debris and collapsing roofs. In contrast, safe rooms can be built into any type of building, including homes, schools, and hospitals, as long as they meet specific design and construction standards.
Key Features and Requirements
A safe room must be at least 72 inches wide, 120 inches long, and 8 feet tall, and its walls, floor, and ceiling must be reinforced with steel or other materials to provide protection from wind-borne debris. Safe rooms must also be designed to withstand wind loads of at least 200 mph and flying debris impacts. Additionally, they must have a secure door that can withstand wind pressures of at least 1.5 pounds per square inch (PSI).
Mobile Home and Outdoor Safety Considerations
If you live in a mobile home, your best option for survival during a tornado is to leave immediately and go to a nearby shelter or safe room. If you are caught outdoors, try to find a low-lying area, such as a ditch or a depression, and cover your head with your hands. Avoid seeking shelter under overpasses, as they can create a wind tunnel effect and increase the risk of injury.
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