How to Prepare a Safe Room
HomeFortis recommends every home have a well-prepared “safe room” to serve as a safe location, with emergency supplies unique for each resident, for several reasons:
Natural Disasters – Those living in areas prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, or other natural disasters may find a safe room essential for protection against high winds, flying debris, and structural damage.
Home Invasions – In regions where home invasions or burglaries are a concern, a safe room provides a secure retreat where residents can seek refuge and contact authorities without risking confrontation.
Civil Unrest – During times of civil unrest or social upheaval, a safe room offers a secure space where residents can shelter until it’s safe to venture out or until help arrives.
Medical Emergencies – In cases of medical emergencies, such as severe allergic reactions, asthma attacks, or injuries, a safe room equipped with medical supplies can provide a controlled environment for treatment and protection.
Security Threats – Individuals who face potential security threats due to high-profile occupations, public visibility, or personal circumstances may find a safe room essential for protection against harassment, stalking, or targeted attacks.
Fire Protection – Safe rooms can be designed to resist fire and smoke, providing a refuge during house fires until firefighters arrive or until it’s safe to evacuate.
By thoughtfully preparing a safe room in your home, you can significantly enhance your personal safety and peace of mind for everyone in your home.
Safe Room Practice Drills
Consider rehearsing various emergencies with those in your home, especially children, so they know what to do if something happens. Children think of emergencies anyways, so it can be a positive, reassuring, and empowering experience for them to walk through the steps in case they need to either 1) shelter in place (home intruder, earthquake, civil unrest, etc.) or 2) evacuate (fire/smoke, domestic violence, post-disaster). Consider using codewords with your children so they begin to understand these two scenarios. To alert them to shelter in place, you might say, “Emergency – HIDE!” To alert them to evacuate, you might say, “Emergency – GET OUT!” When kids (and adults!) practice these actions, their inclination to “freeze” during an actual emergency can be overcome more easily, helping them take the actions that will lead them to greater safety.
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