Homes with storm shelters or safe rooms provide an added measure of protection. However, tornadoes and severe thunderstorms can leave debris on top of shelters, hiding them and those inside from emergency responders. Emergency personnel also benefit from knowing if a property has a safe room that protects against attack or intrusion. For these reasons, University Park has created a registry to aid in locating and assisting residents who may be trapped or are hiding inside.
The registry provides the University Park Fire Department, the University Park Police Department and the City's 911 call center with valuable information for each shelter or safe room including contact information, shelter address, and shelter type. It also allows emergency personnel to map these locations, so that in the event of an emergency, those in need of assistance can be quickly located, even when communications are down.