Prepping the storm cellar for tornado season in Oklahoma | What you need

Prepping for tornados in Oklahoma is serious business. Let’s get prepared.
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[@douglasvankammen2916]

My opinion, 2 gallons of water isn't enough for 8 people and pets.

[@gordontyree4308]

NOT EVEN CLOSE TO BEING ENOUGH WATER! I WOULD STORE ENOUGH WATER FOR 72 HOURS FOR EIGHT PEOPLE. THE BASIC WATER RATION PER PERSON PER DAY IS ONE GALLON, PLUS WATER FOR PETS. THAT’S 24 GALLONS TOTAL FOR THREE DAYS PLUS PETS. POINT TWO….IF YOU PLAN TO USE CANDLES FOR LIGHTING, YOU BETTER HAVE EXCELLENT VENTILATION! FLASHLIGHTS WOULD BE A FAR BETTER CHOICE IMO. AND FINALLY, POINT THREE….A TRAUMA/FIRST AID KIT, WELL STOCKED, WILL BE ESSENTIAL! JUST MY TWO CENTS! GOOD VIDEO. THANKS FOR POSTING.

[@jryland6]

You’re right. Not even close for one day.

[@dowdwm]

With only a single exit and a door that opens outward, I would add hydraulic jack and enough bracing so that if the door is blocked by a tree, car, or other debris it can be jacked open to escape.

[@boxsterman77]

Great idea!

[@corncobb7069]

I GOT a 20 TON Hyd, Jack and 2x4's .. ALSO. Have SOLAR LIGHTS Around Storm Shelter, GRAB THem and GO INSIDE.

[@pamcortez3390]

How about your car and home insurance along with pictures of the 8 of you and copies of id’s

[@VampireCatLegacy]

for real, my great aunt was trapped in a shelter just like this by a car that was dropped on top of her shelter door.

[@boxsterman77]

@@VampireCatLegacy Did she die in there? I'm so sorry.

[@evie1950]

Great ideas!! I’m watching this 2 years after you made the video and hope you were safe during the outbreak of deadly tornadoes in Oklahoma a few weeks ago. Love from Texas❤️💙

[@sjldfilms5126]

They make toilet liners for those toilet buckets, some even have absorbent beads in them. I recommend the bags to tie up if you are in there for a while.

[@barryd.thomassr.9156]

Make a deal with your neighbors that after a storm you will check on them and they will check on you to make sure all is well, and no one is trapped in their shelters due to flying debris!

[@notbraindead7298]

Right neighborly idea.👍👌

[@janicejohnson5652]

Anyone on scheduled medicine may want to make up an emergency pill holder just in case your in there more than a day.

[@MoonlightandMagnolias]

My husband has several health problems stemming from his diabetes. I make copies if his prescriptions which I keep in a 3 ring binder in the shelter on a permanent basis. It is not always easy to access this kind of thing when there is a widespread disaster. I also keep bank information, mortgage info, car info, and medical insurance…also emergency contact info and doctor phone numbers in the binder.

[@mrb5491]

I would put some pain-relievers (Tylenol etc..) several flashlights with plenty of batteries, a lantern powered by batteries, and $100 in small bills in a sealed container. If a storm comes in the night, after it passes, you might want to come out...and in the event there is debris, you'll be glad you have the lantern and flashlights.

[@jameschupp2230]

You might consider putting a steel cage around the Wind Turbine Vent. I don't know why they would build with that knowing that even hail could significantly damage it, but a tree limb for sure.

[@kimmartin633]

I've had mice squeeze thru the wind turbine vent and cause quite a mess. This cellar is still a work in progress~ 🙃

[@LK-bz9sk]

Or could be crushed by debris?

[@Katherine_02]

Every storm shelter should have a whistle (in case you're trapped in there), and something to entertain (distract) little ones, like an iPad that they can watch downloaded cartoons on. It will help keep them from getting scared. Stuffed animals are good too. Whenever we have severe weather here in Alabama, I put together a little grab bag that contains our I.D.s, any meds we take, some cash, and my debit card. I'll set it (and a flashlight) by the door so I can grab them on the way out.

[@LavoyaSearcy-wz2tp]

Try coloring books and crayons/ colored pencils and crossword,/ word search books.

[@pattypierce8189]

Wonderful idea !

[@MoonlightandMagnolias]

My husband keeps some rope and a small chainsaw. That is just in case we end up with trees down and have problems getting out. He has talked about getting a flare gun to bring attention for help should we need it…in addition to lighting up the area. It gets really dark out here! Don’t forget to bring a bag of dog food and water dish! I am in Oklahoma too.

[@stinkygraykitty6808]

Great idea about the flare gun

[@ThePorshaEdmun]

🙏🏽praying for OK. Could any water from rain get in the storm shelter?

[@MoonlightandMagnolias]

@@ThePorshaEdmun not into our shelter! It is a Family Safe above ground shelter. It is rated at an EF5 and can be used as a panic room!

[@alinalemanska2029]

You are not going to move a car or tree with a jack if its large, I think adding another exit is needed. I would make two long benches to put against the wall so each person can have a space to sit or put a house rug on the floor to sit on or another exercising mat. Add a large sledge hammer and pick digging tool so you dig yourself out. And another light device because if this one breaks it will be terrifying. I had a smaller of diffrent brand one and it broke right after I bought it. And a change of cloths for each person in case if you have to stay there longer and you get wet getting in.

[@elainebmack]

You might want to add some pillows or stuffed animal toys, big or small, for people to hug in the middle of a storm. It helps to have something to put over your ears and/or squeeze tightly in a tense situation. You might store these items in space bags to keep them clean and bug free.

[@VampireCatLegacy]

thats a great idea, i will add this to my list as well tysm.

[@VivanHurley]

I always have my meds ,keys in my purse, a flash light ,& pillow . I'd like an inside storm shelter. ❤

[@sgtsplice9643]

FYI- Temps get miserable with any time at all in the cellar. A couple of battery powered (small) fans come in handy along with a few puck lights. Don't leave the batteries installed. Put in some charging cables for the phones. May also put some stair treads on the metal steps but be careful that you don't make them slicker than the flat metal.

[@gonefishing3644]

I recommend someone build a sturdy wooden frame around that bucket toilet so it cannot tip over when someone is using it. Also recommend you get a set of sturdy trash bags to line that bucket toilet. Add some kind of air freshener/deodorizer to use in the shelter because that bucket will soon begin to smell in a small confined area like that storm shelter. Might want to have some puppy training pads to put inside an animal crate if you will be sheltering a dog. Another thing I would put in the storm shelter is a pair of adult size bunk beds and extra blankets so people can take turns napping, especially if you have little kids or elderly folks in the shelter. A small folding card table would be handy for eating a meal or playing a board game and then could be stowed away against a wall when not in use. Folding chairs or stacking chairs would also be handy if people need to be in the shelter all night. No one likes sitting on a concrete floor or on a bucket stool for hours at a time. I would also add a portable/rechargeable DVD player so children or teens could watch their favorite movies. I would store a one burner butane stove and some butane cylinders for it under the lower bunk bed. I would not use the stove inside the shelter, but it would be handy to use outside the shelter for making instant coffee or hot chocolate or instant oatmeal or heating canned soup if you discover your home and vehicles have been destroyed and you are stuck near the shelter for a day or two until the road is cleared and help arrives. Do store enough drinking water so each person will have four gallons -- that is enough water for one person for two days for drinking and for washing -- just in case the storm shelter is all that is left after a tornado comes across your property. Might be a good idea to also have some toiletries and some extra changes of underwear stored in the shelter for each person that may take shelter there. I would also practice with my household members, staying inside that shelter for a couple of hours. That is the way to find the hidden flaws in your preparations before you have to use the shelter for real.

[@eileencarroll6418]

Travel neck pillows. Sturdy shoes for each person so they don't have to find them on the way to shelter; good enough to walk over glass and debris. First aid kit. Folding manual fan for each person. Desk top fan to plug into battery. Activity book, crayons for kids. Seat cushions? Breath mints. Anti anxiety meds or thunder shirt for dog. Reciprocal post-event plan to check on neighbors. Plan/drills with kids procedures with and without adults. Post information on how to shut off utilities if damage or risk of shock or explosion. I e., what to do if the propane tank becomes loose or detached. Yoga mat attached to wall with Command Velcro strips might be easier than cutting up pool noodles. Flashlights and umbrellas for everyone. Well done. Will check your channel for updates.

[@normandothegreat]

In today's world, these should be mandatory for each dwelling to have.

[@kimkris21]

I would maybe add some games or books to keep occupied if you have to stay in there a while. Also maybe food/ extra leash for dogs?

[@kingthetonto]

I would not have any candles or flammable stuff in it.

[@rjl1184]

Exactly! I would recommend getting a few battery powered lanterns. You can buy them at Cabela's. I did after I lost power at home during a derecho a few summers ago.

[@InvisibleWarrior279]

I was in an earthquake once. We lost power and all of us dumb asses started lighting candles. That is a HUGE NO in case of gas line ruptures, etc. I got lucky that time .. 😲 no you should not be using fire after any type of natural disaster until you know for sure what is going on around you ..

[@hull294]

A tent...when the storms over a little more room may come in handy especially with 8 of you

[@VampireCatLegacy]

I also recommend a warm dry change of clothes for each person, the compression packing bags can help store them.

[@catherinecooper2360]

Pet food? Portable propane indoor heater because it can be quite chilly in March, October and November; personal hand fans for when its hot outside; one gallon of water per person per day; a couple of pillows (couch size) ; flare gun; hydrogen peroxide hand wipes; and make sure everyone has a real pair of shoes to wear for going outside when the storm ends. I've hear of people getting shrapnel sticks, broken glass, and other debris stuck in their feet.

[@joanbrooks3276]

What about getting some Battery Operated Lamps

[@user-uy9sd3nq5g]

🎉 I use a 13 gallon size trash bag and my bucket toilet then you can just take the trash bag out and throw it away later. I also use washing detergent to help kill the bacteria and the hard particles in the feces. It really works because of the enzymes and games.

[@da1shark]

A lot of people may say to add something to entertain the kids that is not electronic (using power). Like a deck of cards, board games, pen and paper, etc. That is what we had in our shelter growing up in the 60’s in Oklahoma. But let’s be real, these days I bet the kids will just want to play on their devices until the batteries run down. The weather stations can pinpoint the track of a storm so you won’t have to spend as much time in the shelter as we did growing up. I think what you have is great. You may want to add some bug spray (but you may not want to breathe it) or a fly swatter since you may find some creepy crawlers hanging out with you.

[@TheREALOC1972]

I live in Southern Missouri and have a storm cellar we have 8 of those Solar Powered Yard lights, they put out alot more then you think in a enclosed space, our generator has a radio on as well, Idk if the one you have does or not but if not that's something to consider because we often lose internet/phone service during Tornados and the EMR will work no matter what. We also have a couple of hooks hanging the wall for hammocks to sleep in if we are there over night.

[@Nina-mj7sb]

First sending prayers for your safety and all of your family. A few observations…you need way more water for 8 people and a pet. Also, Lysol wipes are not for cleaning hands. They can be used to disinfect hard surfaces, ie the toilet seat. For hands, get some antibacterial Wet Ones wipes and Purell. Wipe hands first to remove dirt, debris etc. and then sanitize with Purell. I’d also throw some sturdy boots in there for each family member. You have no idea what you’ll emerge into. I’d have some pillows and a few sleeping pads for comfort if you’re in there a while and someone wants to sleep. Then finally, some comfort items for the kids (stuffed animals, toys, games).❤

[@audreyd1003]

Good, practical ideas as a start. What if your shelter will need to provide longer term shelter. Let's say, your home is damaged by the tornado. I didn't see an Emergency Radio - keeps you connected to e-stations for information. Supplies 3-7 days of water/food for the 8 people; a serious first aid kit, head lamps or flash lights and batteries for extra lights; a cook set; bedrolls w. the blue roll sheets. Each person should put together their "go bag" in their room ... phones, chargers, computers, personal needs (prescriptions, etc.). I understand your shelter is very small for 8. But when you see the aftermath of tornados, it's stark. Use vertical storage to allow your critical supplies to fit. Hope this helps!

[@jas4opines]

How about a "Murphy bench" (like a Murphy bed) lengthwise that could hold all 6 on one wall? Foam pad for a cushion. Wishing you never need to use it, but great planning and execution of your shelter.

[@seadragon8546]

Battery powered led light-glowsticks

[@MoonlightandMagnolias]

I have to pass along a cute preparedness story. When my children were younger and at the house I told them they could each choose one item they wanted to bring to the shelter with them. My daughter brought her baby doll, one of my sons brought his acoustic guitar and my oldest son, who was about 14 and very interested in grooming brought a small bag with deodorant, cologne, his toothbrush and toothpaste, comb and breath mints! He said “you never know how long you might need to go without a bath !” lol

[@nateboyett6303]

I used one of those bucket toilets in an extended camping situation. I found that placing a kitchen sized garbage bag in the bucket over the seat keeps the seat and bucket clean. I found that the Glad 2x leak protection bags are the best for that purpose.

[@phillipthornton9227]

Back in the day, 1947 -52, my family lived in a 3-room cold water no bathroom no storm shelter shack in the Canadian River bottom on the west side of Oklahoma City. The old man hauled bricks all day while my mother was home with three kids ten years old and down. Needless to say we had bad storms in the spring. A neighbor maybe two hundred yards away did have an old fashioned bare bones storm cellar and we could go there for shelter if it got really bad. But my mother hated to impose and she would never go until the situation was critical, so finally when the wind was blowing and rain was pounding and a twister bearing down ( there never was one) she would gather us up and we cut out for the cellar, pounded on the wooden door and they always opened up and let us in. Happened more than once.

[@jamesgray2955]

I believe you follow Ryan Hall Y'all!

[@nancyhallock7515]

Sunscreen and a couple of umbrellas incase all the trees are gone. I saw a family with a tent and a canopy shade set up after their whole neighborhood was gone after the 1999 Moore OK tornado 🌪 hit. Lots of people were sitting under that canopy.

[@tracyfrederick5606]

Air horn ! James Spann recommends them. If you are for some reason unable to blow the whistle, the air horn still works. Here in Alabama we have a protracted season too. I'd say summer is our down time until there's something tropical going on.

[@PattySwart-ku9pn]

I live in Piedmont, OK and have learned some things from close friends whose houses were hit. If you have animals, be sure and take leashes for them. Also, always have hard soled shoes because pf debris with nails in it. An emergency lantern with the red flashing light is good too. If you have young kids, keep a color book and crayons or activity book with you. One more thing, my cellar is like yours. If you have the old style door without a lever type handle, be sure to take a chain in there to secure the door to the stairs. Some people in Piedmont had the doors to their cellars bend a great deal or almost come off.

[@user-ut8ls7qp1j]

absolutely beautiful storm shelter i just subscribed and hit the thumbs up

[@christinefreche1115]

Perhaps a small water bowl for the dog. I agree that may not be enough water for 8 people. I do think having more food because if your hime is lost, you will have resources to care for your family until Red Cross can arrive.

[@genevievebakkensen86]

Battery operated candles with rechargeable batteries works fantastic for all situations

[@timnewman1172]

First up, YES!!! Although, I recommend plain sawdust instead of woodchips, and use a tall kitchen trash bag as a liner...

[@mirellawentz4688]

I’m sure cat litter will work great too

[@timnewman1172]

@@mirellawentz4688 not if you try to compost it...

[@khep23]

I was thinking maybe a satellite phone in case telephone poles are down and keeping a flash drive with copies of important documents! Maybe a change of clothes/ponchos/shoes and extra flashlights with batteries in case you have to walk someplace or help neighbors. As someone else mentioned, a whistle or something that you can make noise with, to alert rescuers, should the entrance become blocked from debris. Ear muffs could be useful for kids so they don't hear as much of the storm. Space spaces are also lacking in air quality so having a mini fan or even portable oxygen might be worth looking in to.

[@klk1900]

The most important tip I learned the hard way as a kid. Don’t wait to go to the cellar on HP supercells! So we had a tornado plow within 300yards of us. But massive golf ball to baseball sized hail was getting blasted out by the RFD. So we have a cellar in the back but no way to get across the yard will baseballs coming down. It’s something I had never thought about til that day. Normally the hail core will hit you first then the clear slot but I’ve chased multiple as well that had large hail so close to the tornado. Especially if it’s Mode 1 tornado genesis. Vs mode 2 where you may never see the main core. Just the RFB.

[@lizechard]

Huh?

[@budgetwithrenay2419]

Wow; they are definitely not very wide. I’m very impressed with what you’ve thought of, especially the toilet station and privacy curtain! Great job!

[@jeffkardosjr.3825]

I've heard of the latches being stuck on these. Some tools to get it open from the inside would be a good idea. Not to mention if an object falls on the hatch.

[@Sushi2735]

BRAVO, so nice to see people with good common sense. I would sacrifice whatever it took, to get the money to build one. Part time job, no vacations no eating out! Whatever it took! Bless you and keep you safe!!!

[@roygillespie8574]

I would get some baby wipes and with eight people you might want to get two of them buckets or some bags to put in them

[@boxsterman77]

Great point that people are reluctant to consider. Hey. Keeping it real.

[@rickeyman2215]

Very informative message! Be prepared, Aim High!

[@michaelohare6555]

Led light strings could be a low power option for lighting.

[@lakesuperiorgirl17]

Stop at the dollar tree and get battery operated lights I use them in my RV if Piper outage, I’d be concerned a candle could get knocked over.. I would buy small size of bottled water, and soda, keep in mind if someone is a diabetic. A few small fans

[@connienelson3162]

Excellent advice. Thank you for helping people with information.

[@judya.shroads8245]

Utensils, plates, bowls, paper towels. Nice planning for bad weather.

[@barryd.thomassr.9156]

A 2"X10" board long enough to fit inside ,placed on top of your buckets as a bench. Get another of those foan pads to use as padding for the board and can be bent up the wall as a back pad.

[@carasmussen27]

I think you need much more water. Get some 5 gallon bottles. I gallon per person per day plus some for Buster. Maybe some treats for buster food, and food and water bowl. Pet stores have those portable one. I assume you hva kids. Make sure you have things for them to do in case you have to stay in the shelter for a long time. Stay safe.

[@michaelgraham827]

Good video. We are moving to OK next month and will be installing a shelter and these items will be handy.

[@cordeliabuffy6419]

Thats not enough food for 8 people. Also not enough water. And candles are going to suck up oxygen and be sooty. They make camp glow sticks that last 8-10 hours, and I have about 6 pop up camp lanterns . Sleeping bags are a better option than blankets and they take up less space. Extra clothes and shoes, medicines, etc... and that cold concrete floor, get one of those beach mats and put that down in there, they're easy to clean and would feel better if someone had to sit on the floor. My two cents, I'm always ready for whatever may come.

[@ZIL68]

Hope you all stay safe!!

[@pamelaromer7727]

Hi. I’m not sure why you popped up on my feed but I’m in Ohio and we just went through some nasty storms last night. I just bought a place without a basement so I’m super interested in the company that put in your storm shelter and cost. If you could link that information I’d be super grateful. Here’s a camping tip: double bag the toilet waste and use pine pellets (sold as cat litter or horse bedding at TSC) it will take care of any smell. Be safe!

[@billdunstan-hc6gt]

I would also add a Ham Radio, hand held, (must be licensed) for communication before, during, and after the storm.

[@deannaoverstreet4146]

Great advice! Thank you!

[@nancyhallock7515]

We all have seen too many times after a tornado there are no trees. I would suggest sunscreen especially for little ones and maybe even keep some umbrellas 🌂 to take place of a shade tree. We keep a tent and one of those shade canopies in ours. I saw a family use both of those after the 1999 Moore OK tornado. It was the only thing they had for shelter for quite sometime I'm sure. That always stuck with me.

[@LavoyaSearcy-wz2tp]

I always carry blankets in my car si i was thinkiu i would need them in a stirm shelter also and skeeping nags wirk great!! Keep extra jackets glives and beanie hats in a nucket in there also. Baking doda works for a lit if thinfs, like toothpaste, ouders, cleaning, etc. And a Bible!!!😊😊

[@jshepard152]

Put a $7 Fox 40 Whistle in your cellar. If your door was blocked by debris and you couldn't get a cell signal, you might need to make some loud noise to attract attention. People can only yell for so long but you can blow a whistle all day.

[@notbraindead7298]

Great idea.

[@earlmartin9921]

Crow bar if your door gets stuck you might be able to open with it as leverage

[@myzatulazny7224]

Nice review. Thank You eo much. 👍👍👍❤❤😀

[@ntracefan]

My Papaw always had an oil lamp that hung on the wall next to the steps in his cellar. His cellar was round and he built a round bench inside to sit on. He always grabbed a folder that had all their important papers inside it. There were already blankets/quilts inside as well as water .

[@sandracarey4352]

Add some dog food for your pets. Good topic for this time of year.

[@pnowikow]

Consider a Mr Buddy heater for when it gets cold. A really good comprehensive first aid kit. Flashlights and batteries. Carbon monoxide alarm for that heater. And definitely more water. If you have the opportunity gmrs or ham radio.

[@eileencarroll6418]

Deck of cards, Uno, Scrabble or other small games. Gum/hard candy. Small hobby stuff like crochet. Pens, paper for note taking. Phone apps for games, books, videos. Chewable/comfort toys, blanket for dog. Magnetic or Command hooks for jackets or small storage. Air horn to communicate with people outside if debris is preventing door from opening.

[@ilonakatalindako-tolman5545]

What a good action for your security😉

[@shakinariley6272]

Great preparation for storms and tornadoes 👍

[@christianshannon3943]

Battery operated LED lights will be a good light source . Amazon has some good ones . I bought four LED laterns type lights two years ago and the batteries are still good . The candles could cause a fire too .

[@simplicity2022]

This is same tornado shelter in our backyard 6ft tall and 8ft wide.

[@karenriggle1455]

The way things are going you need to think out of the box.farmer may not be able to plant this year what is going on is global

[@joshuapinks3947]

If YOURE HAVING Snacks YOURE Going to Need Toothbrushs ToothPicks and Toothpaste.

[@MitchPR08]

I would put an extra pair of dry socks and shoes in there for each member of the family…just in case

[@user-fb6qz4ew5k]

Gloves . A good puzzle book and pencil with sharpener. Deck of cards. Ear plugs for those with anxiety or sleeping. Instant ice pack for first aid kit. Small bottle of saline solution for eyes in first aid kit. Chain to tie door down.

[@bettysweet9644]

Do you mind if I ask why an open flame instead of a battery operated light. The best to you and your family.

[@stevenstranger5688]

Candles also put out some fumes and smoke, so probably not recommended for an enclosed space. There are many choices for battery/rechargeable lanterns.

[@511eden]

Candles also suck out oxygen . Not recommended

[@saratemp790]

Put down a large Ruggable rug. More comfy to sit on. And washable

[@frankpabon8329]

great vid~ copies of your most important papers just in case the tornado hits and destroys your home. i love the idea of the noodles i will give that a try. the buckets come in handy.... some traveler games or card games or coloring books and crayons for the kids. a couple of magazines you haven't seen or a book. a couple of new toys for the kids that are wrapped and they have never played with....pending the ages and sexes - but micro mini, Legos doll, etc. this one is my I NEED one....a battery operated or chargeable floor fan. Walmart has the 10 inch face floor fan with batteries. movement of air is crucial - especially if it gets crowded down there! and again - you just never know if you have to stay overnight down there and it can get stuffy fast with a lot of people.

[@jrc9674]

one pack of Butt wipes. It is ok if they dry out. Reconstitute them with water. If anyone is taking meds. Have a 2-day supply in an airtight container. Mark the date you put them in there and cycle them out as needed. a couple of plastic dish pans and liquid soap and wash cloth. When hunting we put a bit of soap in one and rinse water in the other. Takes very little water. Dump used water in buckets when done. If you can store a single solar panel up right, when the coast is clear you can recharge your battery if the power is out after the storm. In your buckets I would store folding saw hatchet folding knife. It seems you should have more water. not sure how many you will have. but you may not have service for many days. I would put in the bucket a filter straw also. I would go with headlamps vs candles. You can have them but use the head lamps for hands free operation. Remove batteries when not in use and have spares. Get a container of waterless cleaner like this CVS Health Foaming Rinse less Shampoo & Body Wash. I used this while hunting. Helps keep hygienic without use of water. I did always dampen a washcloth with water but not required.

[@veronicavanderver7270]

Extra lights because if you get stuck in there for few days you need a gallon of water per person per day. Some kind of something to occupy time while you wait few days . Deck of cards , dice don't take much space

[@user-vh2pk6bd3g]

How about foam rubber roll up pads, that you can put on the floor and put sleeping bags on top of them

[@Nicole215]

*I would NEVER in my life install a storm shelter with a door that ONLY opens OUTWARD. If a VEHICLE, or other heavy equipment is blown there, you'll be trapped until HOPEFULLY, you are rescued. So definitely let a LOT of people know via texts and calls that you and your family will be in the storm shelter just in case no one hears from you after the storm passes. I recommend getting a small bathroom TENT for privacy unless you plan to use the bathroom in front of your children. A small blow-up couch would be great so everyone can be comfortable. And candles are a no-no in any storm shelter. Get battery powered flashlights that are rechargeable as well as those long USB light sticks from Walmart or Amazon. They also sell USB powered (rechargable) small lamps that can last up to 9 hours on a full charge. You also need utensils and bowels (plates, cups, etc., unless everyone is eating with their hands, lol).*

[@sarita5572]

Whenever there is a tornado and damage is done FEMA sends out people to stop and check every single house. We live in the country and had our roof torn off after a tornado and FEMA showed up a few hours later around 3 am in the morning to make sure everyone was out of shelters and okay. We have a great system here in Oklahoma.

[@Nicole215]

@@sarita5572 That's good to know! 😊

[@sarita5572]

@@Nicole215 I thought people were nuts living here too until I moved here from Idaho 10 years ago. I love it here but it is very scary.

[@kimsheather3745]

Something to do while you’re there, family games, maybe cards etc

[@AdamGbl95]

Imagine a luxury tornado shelter the size of a studio, with a bed, tv, sofa (and don't forget toilet!). I'd be like: "tornado warning? Video game time!". Bring the pizza

[@deborahcocos6510]

I would suggest inflatable, solar powered lights. They squish down when not in use. No risk of fire.

[@muppydog9814]

Hmmm...you are very prepared. Lots of good suggestions in the comments. Generally we are only in or storm shelter for 30 minutes, 1 hour tops. We simply take the things that you would need to restart life if you come out of the shelter and your home is gone: checkbook, financials, medications. Having flashlights handy and hard sole shoes as well as your phones and chargers are basic for tornado safety precautions.

[@wendibaker1151]

A Bible, more water - maybe another 3 gallons or so; Tylenol and/or regular Aspirin, solar or powered lanterns; blankets.

[@muppydog9814]

Generally tornado season runs April-June and again in Oct-Nov. Atmospheric conditions generally do not produce tornados during the exetremely hot months of June-Sept. Tornados do occur at other times of the year (Feb and December) but they are unusual at that time of year, out of season, if you will.

[@18twilliams]

games or puzzles

[@GeorgeMinton-jb8ky]

I bought three MOICO strip lights to go under cabinets. they are attached to whatever you want to attach them to be attached to. The lights attach to magnetic strips and are rechargeable with a usb connection. They last a good while. I recharge one or two a week and they only come on while you are moving around or you can just put them in the on mode which drains the power faster. I think I paid forty bucks for three. It is good to have three because when you have one charging you have two to use. might be useful when you need low voltage dc powered lights. I saw a guy who built a remote cabin and he used low voltage lights like christmas tree lights to light his cabin. It was a real good use of power. He had a solar generator. You might consider putting a car battery in there to supply power with an inverter of course. The last item I am not sure about so research is helpful.

[@Premchik]

What I do not understand is why not to make this shelter REALLY comfortable? ❤

[@thelionsclub4912]

Keep insurance folders and all important documents in pockets near the front door. If the weather is very dangerous, you can bring these folders and documents to the Tornado shelter in advance. For TV weather station tornado warnings near your area, place pets in portable cages. Set ornamental birds in smaller cages and cats in a carrier. By Dogs ley collar and leash on. Clarify in advance with the family who will carry what to the tornado shelter when the storm siren sounds the alarm.

[@brockreynolds870]

the other option if you don't want to mess with that is to simply keep them in a safe deposit box at the bank

[@lorenzowest7756]

Very informative thank you for this video. I just have a couple of questions. How big is your storm shelter and what was the cost total?

[@hanna9630]

Mine is a portable electric fan with flashlight and charger just in case if its hot inside i'm a kind of a person that can't sleep without a fan so just in caseif there's a blackout you can use it you can also charge ur cell phones and it has a flashlight too..

[@Birdiechik]

a bag with a change of clothes for everyone as if your house goes, your got some clothes there. Perhaps some shelf stable snacks as well .

[@donhgr]

Prybar and Sledge in case you need to force your way out

[@kathymorris4553]

Maybe something for entertainment, very good job

[@nicolebutterflies1117]

You should get those led lights that are battery powered that can be stuck up in cars to line your shelter cheaply and light the entire room.

[@zoesullivan385]

Keep a few flares in my kit. I live in a thick forest that is kinda difficult to locate so any help is helpful.

[@jefferyronson8950]

when you install a storm shelter like this, can you have a periscope installed so you could check the outside before opening the door?