We get this question multiple times a week: Should a storm shelter door swing in or out? or I see that your doors swing out, do I have the option for an inward swinging door?
The short answer? An outward-swinging door is the safest and most reliable choice. Here’s why:
1. An Inward-Swinging Door Can Trap You Inside
After a tornado, heavy debris—like fallen trees, bricks, and building materials—often piles up outside a storm shelter. If your storm shelter door swings inward, you may not be able to open it at all, leaving you trapped inside.
With an outward-swinging storm shelter door, debris may be present, but it won’t prevent you from pushing your way out once the storm passes.
2. Outward-Swinging Doors Withstand Pressure Better
Think about a public building—most of their doors swing outward for safety reasons. Why? Because outward-swinging doors are harder to force open from the outside.
If high winds or flying debris push against an inward-swinging door, it could be forced open more easily. An outward-swinging door, on the other hand, is designed to withstand intense pressure, keeping you safe inside during the storm.
3. Search & Rescue Teams Arrive Quickly
Some people worry that if debris blocks an outward-swinging storm shelter door, they’ll be stuck. But tornado response teams prioritize storm shelter rescues and often arrive within minutes.
The most important thing is staying protected during the storm, and an outward-swinging door provides the best chance of survival.
FAQs About Storm Shelter Doors
1. Can I get a storm shelter with an inward-swinging door?
No. We only install storm shelters with outward-swinging doors because they are the safest option. Inward-swinging doors can be blocked by debris, trapping people inside.
2. What if debris blocks an outward-swinging storm shelter door?
Emergency responders are trained to clear debris quickly from storm shelters. They know to check for survivors and usually arrive within minutes to assist.
3. Are outward-swinging storm shelter doors harder to break into?
Yes! Outward-swinging doors are designed to resist forced entry, which makes them a more secure choice against both extreme weather and potential intruders.
4. What is the best storm shelter door design?
The safest storm shelter door should:
✅ Swing outward
✅ Be made of reinforced steel
✅ Have multiple locking points
✅ Meet or exceed FEMA guidelines
The Bottom Line
If you’re investing in a storm shelter, you want the safest and strongest option available. An outward-swinging storm shelter door provides:
✔️ Maximum protection during storms
✔️ A safer and easier exit after the storm
✔️ Resistance against forced entry
Our storm shelters exceed FEMA guidelines with secure, outward-swinging doors so you and your family stay protected when it matters most.
Need a storm shelter?
Check out our options here or give us a call at 405-600-4905!
