Why We Can’t Call It “Storm Season!”

Did you know 42 tornado warnings were issued in the first four days of November?

We have learned severe weather can occur at any time throughout the year, so "Storm Season" may not be an applicable term anymore. With that in mind, our storm shelters need to reflect the needs of the current season.

In the spring, we pack the storm shelter with sandals, light jackets, and a few snacks. As we enter the colder months, we should add items that will keep us safe and provide warmth.

Items to pack in your storm shelter:

Blankets: Various-sized blankets in the storm shelter will provide warmth while waiting through the storm. These blankets may also be handy as you walk from the storm shelter to your home once the storm has passed.

Coats and Winter Accessories: If your family needs to move quickly to the shelter in the middle of the night, chances are that you won't be wearing coats and winter accessories. Keeping these extra items in the shelter will ensure that you have them when the time comes.

Restock Snacks and Water Bottles: Now is a great time to check expiration dates on previous food items. Having prepackaged snacks will make it easier to serve and clean up any trash.

Portable Chargers for Devices and Phones: Many portable charging devices on the market last weeks when not in use. Make a calendar reminder to charge your portable device every two weeks and place it in the shelter.

Flashlights: Check the batteries in each of your lights. It is always a good idea to keep an extra set of batteries in the storm shelter.

Weather Radio: If cell towers go down, a weather radio may be the only way to follow the storm's path. Keep an extra radio in the shelter so that you are prepared.

Take 10 minutes this week to pack these items and place them in your shelter. Hopefully, they will sit untouched, but you will be glad to have them if severe weather reappears!