If we understood how long every storm that came through would last, or what type of damage they’d do, storms wouldn’t be nearly as terrifying as they are. After being through one or two storms, it goes without saying that we all want to ensure we have covered all of our bases before the next big storm comes through. If you’ve already invested in a high-quality storm shelter from FamilySAFE Shelters, then you’re already taking steps in the right direction, but this isn’t the only thing that you need to take into consideration. If you’re concerned with what you should be keeping in your shelter, here’s a good starting point.

Water

Obviously having water in your storm shelter is a must, but how much water should you have? We always suggest enough water to last for a while. It’s always good to be overstocked, than under. The best bet is to have several gallons for each individual that you would plan on having in your shelter. Most people can go through about a gallon a day, sometimes more. When you go through and find the water that you’re going to use to fill your shelter, make sure that it’s water that will stay good for a while. Check for expiration dates and use bottled water so that you don’t have to worry about stagnation.

Food

Something to consider with food is how much you’re going to need, and what types of food you’re going to want to stock up on. The primary thing that you need to consider is what is going to last the longest while it’s in your shelter. This isn’t going to be gourmet eating, and that’s something that you need to realize upfront. Most of the foods that you’re going to want to store in your tornado shelter will be foods that are canned or have expiration dates that will last a couple of months, if not longer. Some of the foods that we usually suggest people put in their tornado shelter are:

• Tuna cans or packets
• Peanut butter
• Canned vegetables
• Crackers
• MRE (Meals Ready to Eat)
• Granola bars
• Dried fruits
• Nuts
• Cookies

Again, something that you’re going to want to keep in mind is when that food is expiring and how long it will last for you in that shelter. You obviously don’t want to be investing in food that isn’t going to stay long and have to continue to put new food in your storm shelter. This is entirely worth it when you consider what investment you’re going to be making.

Food and water aren’t the only things that you’re going to want to make sure are in your storm shelter. There are plenty of other things that you will want just in case of a storm that leaves you in your shelter for longer than you’d like and creates more destruction than you would have expected.

FamilySAFE Shelters constantly has the needs and protection of you and your family at the forefront of our priorities. If you are interested in learning more about our storm shelters, how to prepare them for a storm, and what you can do to make sure they are safe. Make sure to keep up with our blog post and the topics that will be coming in the next few months.