Living in Oklahoma means being familiar with the sudden and often violent nature of our weather. When tornado season arrives, the difference between panic and safety often comes down to one thing: preparation.
We have created a simple guide to help you get Tornado Season Ready. Follow these three essential steps to ensure your family is protected when the sirens sound.
Step 1: Build Your Emergency Kit
When seconds count, preparation matters.
If a storm hits and power lines go down, you may be without electricity or access to stores for days. Your emergency kit is your lifeline during the aftermath of a tornado. Don’t wait for a watch or warning to start gathering supplies—by then, it may be too late.
Stock your kit with these essentials:
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Survival Basics: One gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food (canned goods, granola bars), and a manual can opener.
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Power & Light: Heavy-duty flashlights and plenty of extra batteries. Avoid candles due to the risk of gas leaks.
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Health & Warmth: A fully stocked first-aid kit, prescription medications, and blankets or sleeping bags.
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For the Kids: Comfort toys, puzzles, or books to help keep children calm and distracted during the storm.
PRO TIP: Keep your kit in a duffle bag or plastic bin in one easy-to-grab spot—preferably inside your storm shelter or safe room—so you aren’t scrambling in the dark when the power goes out.
Step 2: Make a Family Communication Plan
Tornadoes move fast—your plan should, too.
Chaos and confusion are common during severe weather events. Family members may not be in the same room, or even the same building, when a warning is issued. A solid communication plan ensures everyone knows exactly what to do and where to go.
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Designate a Meeting Place: Choose a safe location (like your storm shelter) where everyone knows to gather immediately.
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Educate the Kids: Make sure children know how and when to contact relatives, neighbors, or emergency services (911).
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Hard Copy Contacts: Cell networks often jam or fail during disasters. Keep a written list of emergency phone numbers in your kit and on your person, just in case your phone battery dies.
Being organized keeps panic low and ensures everyone stays together when it matters most.
Step 3: Invest in a Safe Room or Storm Shelter
Your strongest defense against the storm.
While a kit and a plan are vital, the only true protection against an EF4 or EF5 tornado is a reinforced structure designed to withstand extreme winds and debris.
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Choose Proven Protection: Install a FEMA-approved safe room or a concrete tornado shelter. Whether it’s an underground garage shelter or an above-ground safe room, ensure it meets or exceeds safety standards.
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Keep It Ready: It’s easy for a shelter to become a storage closet during the off-season. Keep your shelter clutter-free and stocked year-round so you can enter it instantly.
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Accessibility is Key: Pick a location that is easily accessible for all family members, including pets and those with mobility issues. Every second counts.
Stay Safe Season After Season
From building storm kits to installing life-saving shelters, Oklahoma Shelters is dedicated to helping families across Norman and the entire state stay safe. Don’t leave your safety up to chance.
Find your perfect storm shelter today. Contact us for a quote.
