Underground Survival Shelter Plans

A popular item during the 1950s and 1960s, underground survival shelters are back in vogue as people prepare for a range of catastrophes from cataclysmic storms to nuclear war. Planning an underground survival shelter is fairly simple, and shelters can be constructed or installed in most backyards.

Choose the Right Location

Be sure to build your underground shelter on high ground above the water level. The best spot is near the top of a hill or slope so that you can build the shelter into the ground at an angle. High ground also ensures that your air supply will not be cut off by water, rubble or anything else that can accumulate in a low area. And it allows gravity to provide natural drainage for water and other wastes that will have to be piped out of the shelter. Make sure the shelter is fairly close to your home to ensure easy and quick access.

Give Yourself Plenty of Space

The rule of thumb for underground shelters is to provide each person with a minimum of 20 square feet of space to accommodate beds and living space. You can buy pre-built underground shelters that are steel reinforced and resemble a small submarine or bus and come equipped with bunk beds, toilets, showers and sinks. If you're building your shelter from scratch, you can opt for constructing concrete reinforced walls with a steel door at the entrance. A shelter that is 8 feet wide by 30 feet long can accommodate up to 10 people for a short stay or a family of five for an extended period. Also be sure to make a shelter at least 7 feet high to allow taller people to walk around without having to stoop over.

Stock up on Supplies

Make sure you stock an ample supply of food and basic living items in your shelter. Military MREs (meals ready to eat) are the best items to stock, since they keep for long periods of time and can be eaten with or without utensils. Freeze-dried foods that you can eat by adding water are also good options, along with air-dried and canned foods. Basic medical supplies like bandages, pain relievers and antibiotics should also be stocked in case of injuries or illness. You should also have a large water tank built into the ground near the shelter to provide running water. You will need a communication device like an emergency radio to keep abreast of what is happening above ground. The best-case scenario is that the underground shelter will be something you check on occasionally but never use.

References

• Underground Survial Shelter Planning
• Underground Shelters