Fortifying Your Bedroom: A Safe Room Guide

Turning a bedroom into a safe room is a viable option for people who want to increase their home security. A safe room is a fortified space that provides a sense of security and protection in case of a home invasion or other emergency situations. While the idea of a safe room might bring to mind images of a dedicated, high-tech, and expensive installation, it is possible to create a functional safe room without disrupting the decor or utility of the bedroom. Here are some key considerations for turning a bedroom into a safe room:

- Location: Choose a room that is easily accessible from all areas of the house, preferably on the same floor as the bedrooms. Consider a room with limited windows to minimize potential entry points, but ensure there is an escape route, such as a window.

- Door: Install a solid-core metal or wooden door with multiple locks, including a deadbolt and a chain lock. Reinforce the doorframe to withstand forced entry.

- Windows: If there are windows in the room, consider installing shatter-resistant glass or applying security window film to prevent easy access.

- Security System: Install a home security system with cameras and a monitoring panel inside the safe room. This allows you to alert authorities and keep track of the intruder's movements.

- Communication: Ensure access to a phone or cell phone to communicate with emergency services and family members.

- Self-Defense: Include a form of self-defense, such as a gun, taser, or pepper spray, for added protection.

- Supplies: Stock the safe room with essential supplies like food, water, first aid kit, flashlights, and extra clothes.

Choose a room with limited windows and an escape area

When selecting a room to turn into a safe room, it is important to choose a room with limited windows and an escape area. Ideally, a safe room should have no windows, but if the only suitable room has windows, you can still take steps to secure them.

Windows present a vulnerability in your safe room, as they can be broken or shot through. If your safe room has windows, consider installing shatter-resistant or shatterproof glass, or anti-theft window film. These options will make it more difficult for an intruder to break through the window. Alternatively, you could install metal bars over the windows, but this may draw attention to the room and indicate to criminals that it is a safe room.

If you want to keep your window but don't want to install bars, consider window security film. This film adheres to the glass and prevents it from being easily shattered. Even if the glass is penetrated, the film will prevent it from shattering entirely, creating only a small puncture.

Another option for securing windows is to install heavy curtains or blinds. These will prevent an attacker from seeing into your safe room, which can help you remain calm and function during a terrifying experience. It is also important to keep yourself out of the line of fire. Position yourself on the same side of the room as the bullets are coming from, as this will reduce the chances of being hit.

In addition to securing the windows, it is crucial to select a room with an escape route. This could be a window that can be used as an emergency exit or another means of escape, such as a door. Ensure that your escape route is easily accessible and can be quickly reached in case of an emergency.

By choosing a room with limited windows and an escape area, you can enhance the security and functionality of your safe room. Remember to assess your specific needs and take the necessary steps to secure any vulnerabilities.

Install a solid core metal or wood door

A solid core metal or wood door is an essential component of a safe room. This guide will take you through the process of selecting and installing such a door.

Selecting the Door

When choosing a door, opt for a solid core metal or wood door rather than a hollow core door. Solid core doors are more secure and are designed to withstand greater force. You can find these doors at your local Home Depot or similar hardware store.

Installing the Door

Installing a solid core door can be done by a local contractor or even a skilled DIY homeowner. However, due to the weight and precise measurements required for security components, it is highly recommended to work with a licensed and bonded contractor.

The door should be properly secured to the surrounding wall, ensuring that the door jamb is of sufficient thickness. The door should also have a high-security lock with multiple locking points to minimize the ability for pins to be disengaged.

Additional Considerations

• Door Frame Reinforce the door frame to ensure that it can withstand force.
• Locks In addition to a high-security lock, consider adding a chain lock and slide locks on the top and bottom of the door for added security.
• Hinges and Strike Plate Use longer set screws (3-inches) to improve the security of the hinges and strike plate.
• Door Hardware Use metal slipcovers or larger door hardware reinforcers to protect the areas of the door where locks have been installed.
• Barricades Install metal bars or door stops that can be secured along the center of the door or under the door handle from the inside for additional reinforcement.

By following these steps, you can effectively install a solid core metal or wood door as part of your safe room construction.

Select multiple locks, including a deadbolt and a chain lock

When it comes to securing your safe room, locks are essential. Here are some tips on selecting multiple locks, including a deadbolt and a chain lock:

Deadbolts

Deadbolts provide the highest level of security for exterior doors. When choosing a deadbolt, look for one that is pick-resistant and bump-proof. Good locks use mushroom pins or pick shields to prevent thieves from using picking tools. Consider a double-sided deadbolt for your safe room, as this will allow you to leave the key inside the lock on the interior side of the door. Ensure that the deadbolt you choose is compatible with your door type—standard deadbolts may not work with all doors, and using the wrong type of lock can weaken the door. If you have a door with a mortise lock body, for example, you'll need a mortise lock rather than a standard deadbolt.

Chain Locks

Chain locks provide additional security and are ideal for interior doors. They can be made of solid brass or steel and come in various finishes, such as satin nickel or polished brass. When choosing a chain lock, consider the length of the chain or bar to ensure it fits your door securely.

Other Considerations

• Lock Grades and Ratings: Look for locks that have been tested and graded by organisations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA). Locks with higher grades offer greater durability and strength.
• Ease of Installation: Consider how easy the locks are to install. Some may require changing the door to fit the lock properly, which can add to the cost and complexity of the project.
• Key Compatibility: If you're purchasing multiple locks, look for those with the same "key-alike" number to ensure they can be keyed to work with the same key. This provides convenience and simplifies key management.
• Security Doors: Pair your locks with a solid-core door or one that utilises an iron or steel core. This will provide greater strength and resistance against forced entry attempts. Ensure the door fits tightly against the frame to prevent tools from being inserted into gaps.
• Hinges, Strike Plate, and Hardware: Use longer set screws (3 inches) to secure the hinges and strike plate. Consider adding metal slipcovers for locks and door hardware reinforcers for additional protection.
• Barricades: Install barricades that can be secured from the inside, such as metal bars, door handle props, or simple door stops. These add an extra layer of security after the door has been locked.

Remember, the goal is to make your safe room as secure as possible. By selecting multiple locks, including a deadbolt and a chain lock, and following the above considerations, you can significantly enhance the security of your safe room.

Install a home security system with cameras

Installing a home security system with cameras can be a complex but rewarding task. Here are some detailed instructions to help you turn your bedroom into a safe room:

Planning and Purchasing:

First, you need to plan where you want to install the cameras. Identify the priority areas you want to monitor and consider possible camera angles. Typical security camera placements include entry doors, off-street windows, porches, stairways, driveways, and interior common rooms. It's important to ensure that each location has no obstructions and a clear line of sight. For outdoor cameras, choose a placement higher than 10 feet that offers protection from inclement weather.

Next, decide whether you want a wired or wireless setup and choose a system that suits your needs and budget. Wireless systems are easier to install but may have reduced image quality over long distances, while wired systems are more complex to set up but offer a more reliable connection.

Installation:

For wireless cameras, find a solid surface to mount the camera, using the provided template to drill holes and attach the camera securely. For wired cameras, you will need to drill holes for the camera mount and cables, and then run the cables through the wall to the DVR box, which may require assistance.

Network Connection:

Connect the input cable of your wired camera to the DVR box, noting which input port each camera is connected to. Then, connect the DVR output port to a monitor. Ensure all components are connected to a power source. For wireless systems, simply install the necessary software and follow the instructions.

Additional Tips:

• Consider purchasing weather shields for outdoor cameras to protect them from the elements.
• Use a recording device like a DVR or NVR to store footage.
• Test all components before beginning installation, and ensure you have enough cable length for wired systems.
• For wired cameras, connect the cable to the camera and the power source before securing the camera to the mount.
• Place cameras high up, out of reach, to make them harder to disable or steal.
• Be mindful of legal restrictions regarding privacy and consent when installing cameras in certain areas, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, or areas with visibility into a neighbor's property.

Stock your safe room with emergency supplies

When stocking your safe room, it's important to consider the situations you are trying to protect yourself against and how long you expect to be there. Here are some essential items to stock your safe room with in case of emergencies:

• Communication devices: A phone and charger, preferably a dedicated cell phone that always stays in the safe room. Ensure it is charged and has a signal. You can also install a landline and an internet connection, which are affordable and may stay intact if intruders are not looking for them.
• Water: Store plenty of bottled water, correctly, to last everyone for several days.
• Food: Canned food and food bars are ideal as they last a long time and are often ready to eat. If your safe room has power, a microwave will be useful; otherwise, stock foods that can be eaten cold. Don't forget food and water for pets too.
• Hygiene and sanitation: Basic hygiene items such as toothpaste and soap are important, as well as a bowl for washing, towels, wet wipes, and spare clothes. A portable toilet is also recommended, with a makeshift screen for privacy.
• Bedding: Ensure you have clean bedding, and consider camping beds or airbeds that can be stored and inflated when needed.
• Entertainment: Books, toys, games, and electronics such as a TV or e-reader can help keep your mind occupied and pass the time.
• Lighting: Flashlights, battery-powered lanterns, and other alternative light sources are crucial if the power is cut. Avoid oil lamps or open flames that release fumes.
• First aid kit: A well-stocked first aid kit will help you dress and clean wounds. Include antiseptic, bandages, painkillers, and any necessary medication for medical conditions.
• Weapons: Although most would hate to use a weapon, you may be given no choice. Pepper spray is a must-have item for bunkers, and a club is a good option if you're untrained. Knives or firearms provide more protection but should only be used if you're trained.
• Other items: Other useful items include a fire extinguisher, gas mask, and a bolted-down safe for valuables.

Frequently asked questions