Features & Benefits of SteelSafe Storm Shelters
SteelSafe Shelters are engineered, fabricated, and installed to provide dependable storm protection in real-world severe weather conditions. Every feature is purpose-built to improve occupant safety, durability, and usability—based on hands-on experience and proven engineering principles.SteelSafe Features at a Glance
Designed for real emergencies — not just lab conditions.
Every SteelSafe shelter feature is intended to function during worst-case storm scenarios, not ideal conditions.
Every SteelSafe shelter feature is intended to function during worst-case storm scenarios, not ideal conditions.
Designed for Maximum Occupant Protection
The SteelSafe product line was developed to deliver one of the highest levels of occupant protection available in a residential storm shelter. Design decisions focus on how shelters perform during extreme wind events, flying debris impact, and emergency access situations.Exterior Corrosion Protection
All SteelSafe underground shelters are coated with coal tar epoxy to protect against rust and corrosion in below-grade environments. This same coating is required by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for steel structures installed below the water line.This protective coating extends the service life of the shelter and helps preserve structural integrity in varying soil and moisture conditions.
Engineered Anchoring Systems
Proper anchoring is critical to storm shelter performance. SteelSafe shelters are designed with some of the most stringent anchoring requirements in the industry.Standard anchoring requirements include:
• Regular and Medium models: 8 pieces of #4 rebar
• Extra-Large models: 18 pieces of #4 rebar
These standards are engineered to prevent uplift, movement, or flotation during extreme storm events.
Dual-Access Entry & Emergency Exit Design
Many storm shelters rely on a single lid as the only means of entry and exit. SteelSafe underground shelters feature a primary front entry door and a secondary rear emergency exit.Both doors open inward and remain contained within the shelter footprint. Each door can be removed by hand by two adults if necessary, providing multiple exit options even if debris blocks one opening.
Additional Emergency Access Measures
Every SteelSafe underground shelter includes a 4-foot come-along and a fabricated rear wall anchor point. In the unlikely event that debris obstructs a door, occupants have mechanical assistance available to help open an exit.This added safety measure reflects our belief that storm shelters should be designed for worst-case scenarios—not best-case assumptions.
Ventilation & Interior Safety Systems
Every SteelSafe shelter includes a battery-powered air induction system that draws fresh air into the shelter and circulates it throughout the interior.Standard interior systems include:
• Battery-powered air circulation system
• Fluorescent interior lighting
• Up to 24 hours of continuous operation using eight D-cell batteries
SteelSafe vs. Typical Storm Shelters
| Feature | SteelSafe Shelters | Typical Shelters |
|---|---|---|
| In-House Design & Fabrication | Yes | Often outsourced |
| FEMA & ICC-500 Compliance | Yes | Varies by model |
| Anchoring Standards | Exceeds typical requirements | Minimum guidelines |
| Dual Exit Capability | Yes | Single lid only |
| Battery-Powered Ventilation | Standard | Optional or not included |
| Emergency Mechanical Assistance | Included | Not available |
