For purposes of this chapter the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
"FEMA." The Federal Emergency Management Agency.
"ICC." International Code Council.
"MPH." Miles per hour.
"RESIDENTIAL." Those occupancies described in the applicable Indiana Residential Code as one and two-family dwellings but not multi-family dwellings.
"SAFE ROOM." A structurally reinforced room located within an existing residence that provides a space of refuge during a severe weather event. It is a "room within a room" with its walls, ceiling and floor structurally separate from the rest of the related structure so as to remain intact even if the surrounding structure is destroyed and will provide protection from winds and debris during a storm with winds reaching a maximum of 250 mph. The room shall be easily accessible from any area of the residence.
"SEVERE WEATHER EVENT." A tornado, wind storm, lightning storm, hail storm, dust storm or similar type of event. Specifically excluded are floods, flash floods, earthquakes, dust storms, cold weather, blizzards and the like which require different types of shelters.
"SHELTER." An area of a structure or a separate structure which provides protection and life safety during a severe weather event.
"STORM SHELTER." A separate structure that provides a space of refuge during a severe weather event. It may be located either above ground or below ground and will provide protection from winds and debris during a storm with winds reaching a maximum of 250 mph. The storm shelter shall not be located in an area subject to rapid flooding or similar hazards including the infiltration of toxic gases.
(Ord. 2012-13, passed 9-18-12)