Tornado Shelter Maintenance 101: Keeping Your Oklahoma Shelter Ready for Storm Season

Your tornado shelter is your haven during the storms that Oklahoma is infamous for. It’s the place where you and your loved ones find safety amidst the chaos. But like any protective structure, tornado shelters require regular maintenance to ensure they’re always ready when you need them most.

In this blog, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on tornado shelter maintenance, helping you keep your shelter in optimal condition for the storm season.

The Importance of Tornado Shelter Maintenance

Before we dive into the maintenance checklist, let’s understand why regular maintenance is crucial:

Ensuring Structural Integrity: Over time, exposure to the elements, dust, and other environmental factors can impact your shelter’s integrity. Regular inspections and maintenance help identify any issues early on, ensuring your shelter remains structurally sound.

Preventing Mold and Mildew: Tornado shelters can be prone to moisture buildup, especially in below-ground models. Proper maintenance helps prevent mold and mildew growth, which can affect air quality.

Ensuring Functionality: Your shelter’s door, locks, ventilation system, and emergency supplies need to be in working order. Maintenance ensures that everything functions as intended.

Tornado Shelter Maintenance Checklist

1. Visual Inspection

• Exterior: Begin with an examination of the shelter’s exterior. Look for signs of damage such as cracks, dents, or rust. Pay close attention to the door, hinges, and locks to ensure they are functioning correctly.
• Interior: Then, look for signs of water leakage or moisture. Make sure there are no signs of cracks, mold or mildew.

2. Cleanliness

• Dust and Debris: Remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated both inside and outside the shelter. A clean shelter is less likely to develop issues over time.

3. Door and Lock Inspection

• Door Seals: Check the door seals for any wear and tear. Make sure they create a tight seal when the door is closed. Replace seals if necessary.
• Locks and Latches: Test the locks and latches to ensure they are working correctly. Lubricate them if they seem stiff or difficult to operate.

4. Ventilation

• Ventilation System: If your shelter has a ventilation system, make sure it’s functioning properly. Clean or replace air filters as needed to ensure proper airflow.

5. Emergency Supplies

• Supplies Check: Take a look at the emergency supplies you have stored in your shelter. Ensure that they are up-to-date and in good condition. Replace any expired items.

6. Structural Integrity

• Foundation: Check the shelter’s foundation for any shifting or settling.

7. Annual Professional Inspection

• Expert Evaluation: Schedule an annual inspection by a professional tornado shelter maintenance service like Oklahoma Shelters in Oklahoma City. They can assess your shelter’s structural integrity and make any necessary repairs.

Contact Oklahoma Shelters for Expert Maintenance

Tornado shelter maintenance is not something you should take lightly. Ensuring your shelter is in top condition is a matter of safety for you and your family. At Oklahoma Shelters, we offer expert maintenance services to keep your shelter ready for storm season.

Contact us today to schedule your tornado shelter maintenance or to learn more about our high-quality tornado shelters and safe rooms.

Your family’s safety is our top priority, and we’re here to help you stay prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Don’t wait until severe weather strikes; be proactive and ensure your shelter is always ready to provide the protection you need.