Stocking Safe Rooms and Storm Shelters

When severe weather strikes, having a well-stocked safe room or tornado shelter can mean the difference between survival and hardship. Whether you're sheltering from a tornado, hurricane, or other emergency, here’s what you need to keep in your safe room to stay protected and prepared.

1. Essential Supplies

Your safe room should be stocked with basic survival necessities in case you're trapped for an extended period.

• Water – Store at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
• Non-perishable food – Pack easy-to-eat items such as protein bars, canned goods (with a manual can opener), and dried fruit.
• Flashlights & batteries – A reliable flashlight or headlamp is essential if the power goes out. Keep extra batteries on hand.
• First aid kit – Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio – A NOAA weather radio can keep you updated on storm conditions.

2. Personal Safety Items

Since tornadoes and high winds can cause flying debris, be prepared to protect yourself.

• Helmets – Bicycle, motorcycle, or sports helmets can reduce the risk of head injuries.
• Sturdy shoes – If you need to walk through debris after the storm, you’ll want durable footwear.
• Gloves – Work gloves can help protect your hands from broken glass and sharp objects.
• Whistle – If trapped under debris, a whistle can help rescuers find you.

3. Communication and Identification

If you need to contact emergency services or reunite with family, having communication tools is crucial.

• Cell phone & portable charger – A fully charged power bank can keep your phone running longer.
• Emergency contacts list – Keep a written list of important numbers in case your phone dies.
• Identification & important documents – Store copies of IDs, insurance policies, and emergency contacts in a waterproof bag.

4. Comfort and Sanitation

If you're in your safe room for an extended time, basic comfort and hygiene items will be helpful.

• Blankets, pillows and extra clothing – Staying warm is important, especially in cooler weather.
• Toiletries – Include wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and hygiene products.
• Emergency toilet – A bucket with a lid and garbage bags can serve as an emergency toilet.
• Something to sit on - this could be a camp chair, or a 5 gallon bucket with a fabric wrapped foam pad glued to the lid. No matter what you choose, you'll be glad that you don't have to sit on the floor the entire time.
• Boredom Blockers - You may need something to pass the time or just to get your mind off things. You might appreciate storing games, decks of cards, puzzles, notebook and pens, knitting or crocheting supplies, coloring books/crayons, books, building blocks, glow sticks, Mad Libs, whiteboard for pictionary, fidget toys, etc...

5. Special Considerations

• Pets – Keep pet food, water, and a leash or carrier if you're sheltering with animals.
• Children’s needs – If you have young children, include diapers, formula, and comfort items like books or stuffed animals.
• Elderly or disabled family members – Ensure any necessary medical equipment or mobility aids are accessible.

Final Tips

• Store these supplies in your safe room in advance. Don’t wait until a storm is approaching to gather essentials.
• Regularly check and update your supplies, replacing expired food, batteries, and medications.
• Conduct drills with your family so everyone knows where to go and what to do in an emergency.

Having a well-prepared safe room or tornado/storm shelter can provide peace of mind and life-saving protection when disaster strikes. Make sure yours is ready before the next storm hits!

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