Preparing an existing storm shelter or other safe space for a tornado should be at the top of everyone’s to-do list. Think of it as risk management, which can pay significant

dividends toward safeguarding the lives of family and pets, said Gina Peek, interim associate dean and Oklahoma State University Extension housing and consumer specialist.

 

Peek offered the following checklist as a good place to start:

• Check to make sure the shelter area is dry. If not, determine how the water is getting in and repair any cracks. If water is coming in through the door, homeowners will need to divert storm water away from the entrance.
• Spiders, rodents and other pests also can get in through cracks. Seal those openings.
• Clean the area thoroughly. Clear out cobwebs and other fire hazards. Sweep the floor.
• Prepare an emergency kit as suggested by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
• Medications should be ready to take into the shelter. For households with small children, pack diapers, formula and similar child-related essentials.
• Make sure bottled water is already on site. A good rule of thumb is to provide one gallon per person per day.
• Don’t forget special stuffed toys or blankets that can help comfort small children.

 

Finally, don’t forget about your feet.

 

“Everyone should be wearing shoes,” Peek said. “There may be storm damage after the extreme weather has passed – possibly broken glass, splintered wood, downed trees, twisted metal and other hazards. Feet need to be protected.” 

 

Additional ideas for storm shelter preparation are available through the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration.