tornado effected place

Preparing Your Tornado Safety Kit: Essentials to Have

Tornadoes are weather events that tend to be incredibly violent and unpredictable. These forceful columns of air tend to exert so much force they wreak havoc and damage things that are in their path, from cars to concrete structures.

It’s crucial to seek shelter and hide in a specially designed, tried and tested safe storm room that can offer you protection. If you’re a homeowner with an underground garage shelter or above-ground concrete shelter, you should also prepare your emergency supplies ahead of time.

Whether you prefer to stock them in the shelter or want to create a kit or bag that can be grabbed as you run, some of the essential items you need to include are listed below.

A steady and sufficient water supply

Water is a basic necessity, and you never know when you’ll need it. Thankfully, it’s also something that’s easy to store without worrying about it going bad. Store a large water tank or bottle that carries at least a few gallons at a time. Your supply should be able to last you at least a few days, even if you don’t need it for that long.

Canned foods and a can opener

Canned foods tend to last a few months or years, at least, which is perfect for when you’re stocking for emergencies in advance. Keep foods that are easy to eat and nutritious, and don’t forget to keep a can opener with you too. If it’s left unused a few weeks from expiration, eat it at home or donate it to food banks!

Complete first aid kit and guide

Bandages, antiseptics, disinfectants, a comprehensive guide on different injuries and how to deal with them—you need these essentials in your kit at all times. Injuries like broken bones, sprains, scrapes, and gashes are common during emergencies, so you can never be too prepared.

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Prescription medication supply

If you or a family member are on prescription medication, make sure you’re carrying extras. From inhalers to blood thinners and insulin, anything you need, you should have in your emergency kit. Request your physician for an additional prescription if necessary.

Flashlights, radio, and emergency phones

Stock batteries and power banks as well as emergency cellphones, a radio to receive updates, and flashlights to get around in the dark. These are essential to have in case you’re unsure about whether it’s safe to leave the shelter or get stuck.

Copies of documents and paperwork

Identification, deeds, passports, and other important documents should always have copies that you keep with your emergency kits in case something goes wrong. From damage to property or the documents themselves, you need to have records for future use and insurance claims, for instance.

 

A storm safety room can keep your family protected from even the most dangerous tornadoes. Get in touch with us to order a storm safe room in Dallas or Fort Worth, and keep your loved ones protected from the devastating effects of tornadoes.

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