When it comes to the safety of students and faculty, schools can no longer afford to overlook storm shelters as an essential component in their buildings. With the increase in natural disasters like tornadoes and hurricanes, educational facilities must protect their communities while also meeting evolving building codes and tight budgets. The question becomes how can schools include storm shelters in a cost-effective manner without compromising safety or functionality?

In this blog we’ll explore why storm shelters are essential, the challenges schools may face in building them and practical solutions school districts can use during construction to deliver student safety.

Why do we need storm shelters in schools?

Extreme weather is on the rise with a growing number of tornadoes and hurricanes impacting regions across North America.

Considering the risks, the International Building Code (IBC) now mandates schools in ICC 500 high-speed wind zones and with occupancy levels over 50 people to include storm shelters built to ICC 500 standards. Even for school districts outside of these areas, constructing a safe room or storm shelter future proofs your building and provides protection for students and staff. These added security measures can even enable your school to serve as a community storm shelter or disaster relief center in times of crisis. Learn more here.