Storm Shelter Testing Center Opens at Delaware Site

DuPont opened its first storm shelter testing center yesterday at the Chestnut Run site in Wilmington, Del.  The multi-million dollar facility will allow the company to test different materials for its DuPont™ StormRoom™ with Kevlar®. DuPont also will use the site to develop new technologies that will further help protect people and property during dangerous storms.

“Historically, April kicks off tornado season in the United States, but already this year we’ve seen the incredible destruction these storms can cause, including a hit on a major urban area, Atlanta, which dispels the myth that tornadoes don’t target big cities,” said Tom Schuler, vice president and general manager -- DuPont Building Innovations. “This test facility, our first at a DuPont site, will allow us to test new materials for storm protection and to make the StormRoom™ stronger and more cost-effective for consumers and building owners.” 

Earlier this week, DuPont announced an agreement with national builder Epcon Communities to offer the DuPont™ StormRoom™ with Kevlar® to its 138 builder franchisees – the first agreement to offer a storm shelter nationally.

The DuPont™ StormRoom™, the only storm shelter with the strength of DuPont™ Kevlar®, provides protection from tornadoes and hurricanes.  Flying debris continues to be the No. 1 cause of injury in severe storms and can turn branches into deadly projectiles. Tornadoes can provide consistent winds up to 250 miles per hour (mph) – much higher than some hurricanes.  According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), most of the country is exposed to winds that can range from 130 mph to 250 mph. 

According to DuPont research, consumers are increasingly focused on home safety and the need for functionality in a storm shelter. The DuPont™ StormRoom™ allows for electricity and plumbing installation, as well as cell phone and radio reception, so its occupants can monitor news and weather information.  When not in use, the StormRoom™ can double as an extra room, storage space or powder room, providing year-round utility.

For more information on the DuPont(TM) StormRoom(TM) with Kevlar(R), visit:  www.stormroom.dupont.com.