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Two years ago the Washington County Emergency Management team received approval to start an Individual Safe Room Rebate Program. The approved project cost $184,000 which was enough for them to afford rebates to install 92 storm shelters for Washington County residents.

Melissa with Washington County Emergency Management says they have made great progress with the project to date. They have paid out over $139,000 in rebates to Washington County residents so far. 71 shelters or safe rooms of the 92 have also been installed. They hope to do this program again because they believe it's beneficial for those residents who want to have a shelter but believe they can't afford one. The rebate program, Emergency Management officials say, helped them afford the shelters.

She says the Individual Safe Room Rebate Program will reimburse 75-percent of the cost of a safe room or storm shelter up to $2,000. Washington County Emergency Management does check the shelters to make sure they meet Federal Emergency Management Agency standards. Being part of the program is completely voluntary. You can still register your storm shelter or safe room with them and they will mark your location. If a storm blows through and you are in the debris path, Washington County Emergency Management crews will come to your location to make sure you’re not trapped.