Whether it’s hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, or powerful earthquakes, each year brings with it natural disasters that can strike at any time. To keep safe, consider installing your own storm shelter, especially if you live in an area prone to these catastrophes. Not only will you need a sound structure, but enough provisions to sustain your family and pets while you wait for conditions to return to normal. Here's a rundown of essential items to have on hand.

What to Have Ready in Case of a Disaster

1. Food & Water

A gallon of water is enough for one person's drinking and sanitation needs for one day. Store enough gallons to last your household for at least three. Likewise, stock enough non-perishable food for this time frame. Cookies, cereal, and canned goods are ideal. Don't forget to include a can opener. Customize supplies to fit your family's special needs, like infant formula or specific medicines. If you have pets, have a stash of canned food and water for them as well.

2. Hygiene Kits & Gadgets

Don't forget to include hygiene items, like toothbrushes, sanitary napkins, and moist towelettes. You should also include garbage bags and plastic ties for securing trash and waste. Have some disposable litter trays for your pets as well. Your storm shelter should also have a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio to keep up with local weather reports and advisories. Store flashlights, extra batteries, candles, and matches in a waterproof container in case the power goes out. And it’s also a good idea to have a mobile phone with extra batteries ready to call for help.

3. Clothes & Bedding

Keep at least one complete change of clothes per person in the storm shelter. Take into account the climate in your area. If you live in a cold place, stash warm apparel and vice versa. Don't forget to include sleeping bags and blankets.

 

A strong disaster shelter will keep your family safe when extreme weather strikes—and G & M Tank Co. can build one for you. The Purcell, OK, company specializes in fallout shelters and storm shelter installation. Capable of holding 8-10 people, these reinforced pre-cast concrete buildings come with a 10-year warranty. Check out their website for pictures of the installation process or call (405) 527-5342 with any questions.