OHIO — The Ohio EMA is now offering rebates to residents who install safe rooms inside or outside of their homes.

What You Need To Know

  • The Ohio EMA is offering up to a 75% or a maximum of $4,875 to select homeowners for the cost to install or construct a safe room

  • Applications can be submitted through Feb. 4

  • Safe rooms are designed to protect homeowners during extreme weather events

The EMA rebate program will provide up to a 75% or a maximum of $4,875 to select homeowners for the cost to install or construct a safe room, which is a structure specifically designed to provide protection in extreme weather events.

EMA officials are accepting applications through Feb. 4.

“In neighboring Kentucky last month, a catastrophic tornado killed close to 100 people, and Ohio has seen its own share of deadly tornadoes as well,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “Because our entire state is vulnerable to tornadoes, we’re offering these rebates to help cover some of the costs associated with the added protection of a safe room.”

Last year, the National Weather Service confirmed a total of 28 tornadoes touched down in Ohio, including the Dec. 11, 2021, EF-1 tornado in Hardin County, and two separate “tornado outbreaks” in October 2021 that totaled 14 different tornadoes. 

“Safe rooms offer protection to a tornado’s strong winds and resulting airborne debris and provides near-absolute protection for occupants,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “We urge Ohioans to apply for these grants.”

Safe rooms can be installed in the basement of a home, beneath a concrete slab or garage floor; or in an interior room on the first floor. A safe room may also be buried in the yard or be a structure near the home.

For more information and to apply, click here to visit the Ohio EMA Rebate Program website. 

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