Being trapped inside your above-ground storm shelter is a rare occurrence, but it can happen. When preparing for a storm, you should think of every possible scenario you could find yourself in, including being trapped. Being ready for a scenario like this can save the lives of you and your family.
1. Have Your Family Take a Tour of the Above-Ground Tornado Shelter
Having your family get to know the layout of your above-ground shelter will help them to feel more comfortable if they ever have to use it during a storm. Seeing the location of seating areas, storage, and emergency supplies will help to put them at ease. You can also gauge how much actual space is available when everyone is inside at once.
Claustrophobia can be a problem, but mentally preparing for a small space and familiarizing yourself with it can make it more bearable. It also helps you know where the exits are and how to work them.
Related Post: 4 Essential Features of a Metal Above-Ground Storm Shelter
2. Store Non-Perishable Food & Supplies Inside
In the event you do get trapped inside, your storage area should contain enough food and water for several days. How much food you need depends on how many people will be inside. Make sure you choose items that have a long shelf life and need minimal preparation.
Some good examples include:
- Peanut butter
- Crackers
- Dried fruits, nuts, or trail mix
- Canned foods
- Granola bars
- MREs
It is also important to have other supplies, including flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered weather radio, a phone charger, Mylar blankets, and any necessary medication. It’s important to have batteries for lights because that can help with feelings of claustrophobia.
3. Register Your Shelter With Local Authorities
In some areas, you need a permit to build a structure like an above-ground storm shelter, but this depends on local laws. Whether you need a permit or not, call your local authorities to see what you can do to make sure your shelter is registered. In the event of a tornado, rescue crews will know you have a tornado shelter on your property and look for it.
Related Post: Residential Storm Shelter FAQs
4. Tell Your Family & Friends You Have a Storm Shelter
Make sure close family and friends know you have a storm shelter installed on your property and that they know where it is located. They might be the first ones able to get to you after a disaster, and knowing exactly where to find you is important if you happen to be trapped inside.
5. Don’t Panic
It may seem pointless to tell someone who may be panicking just not to panic, but there really is no need to in this situation. Panicking will just expend the energy that you need to save. Following the steps above, you should be okay, even if you get trapped for a few days following a catastrophic tornado. Just make sure you have your supplies ready and that family members know where you are.
Again, this is a worst-case scenario. However, it’s important to prepare just in case.
Residential Storm Shelters with Stronghold
Protect your family with an above-ground storm shelter from Stronghold Safe Rooms. They are rated to withstand winds up to 250 mph, equivalent to an EF-5 tornado. Install an above-ground shelter in your garage or on a dedicated concrete pad.
Contact our team or call (417) 883-0733 today for a consultation.
