Severe weather can strike anytime, and having a tornado shelter in Texas is critical to being prepared. But having a shelter is only half the battle—it’s important to ensure it’s stocked with essential items that will keep you and your family safe and comfortable during an emergency.
From water and non-perishable food to warm blankets and emergency supplies, there are certain items to keep in your storm shelter that every shelter should have.
This blog will cover what you should keep in your safe room shelter and why these items are essential for weathering any storm. So whether you’re new to the world of storm preparedness or just looking to update your shelter’s inventory, read on to learn more about what you should keep on hand.
1. Water
It’s crucial to have a supply of clean drinking water in case of a power outage or water contamination. Keep several gallons of water in your storm shelter, enough for each person to have one gallon daily for at least three days.
2. Non-Perishable Food
Keep a supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food in your tornado safe room, such as canned goods, granola bars, and dried fruit. Having a manual can opener on hand is also a good idea.
3. First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen during a storm, so it’s important to have a well-stocked first aid kit in your storm shelter. It should include bandages, gauze, scissors, and over-the-counter medications.
4. Flashlights and Batteries
In case of a power outage, it’s important to have a source of light. Keep flashlights, extra batteries in your storm shelter, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed about weather updates.
5. Warm Blankets and Clothing
If you lose heat in your home, it’s important to have warm blankets and clothing in your storm shelter to stay comfortable—pack extra blankets, coats, hats, and gloves for each person in your family.
6. Emergency Supplies
Other essential items to keep in your storm shelter include a multi-tool, a whistle to signal for help, and a phone charger. It’s also a good idea to have copies of important documents, such as identification and insurance documents, stored in a waterproof container.
By keeping these items in your storm shelter, you can be prepared for any emergency and ensure the safety and comfort of you and your family. Don’t wait until a storm is on the horizon to stock your shelter – prepare now and stay safe.
If you don’t already have a safe room in your house, you should consider having one built before the Texas hurricane season begins. Our tornado shelters are built to FEMA standards for an EF5 tornado and have been tested for impact resistance. Therefore, whether you’re looking for an above-ground storm shelter or a steel storm shelter, reach out to us!
