While storm shelter kits are available, this article will focus on how to do it yourself, using raw materials. This will allow you to set your own budget, choose your own materials, and gain the knowledge you’ll need to build your own storm shelters in future residences, or on rental properties, to protect your tenants. There are many websites on the internet that can be used to determine the materials needed and plans that will outline how to build a storms shelter.

If you’ve watched that movie about the girl that got sucked up into a tornado and thrown over the rainbow, then you probably know what a storm shelter is. But, just in case: a storm shelter is basically a structure, usually built underground, with the sole purpose of protecting a person or persons from the destruction caused by a tornado.

To build your own tornado shelter, you’ll need to decide if you’re going to build it underground, or, alternatively, in your home (in the basement, garage, or an interior room on the first floor of your home).

There are many services out there that will teach you how to build your own storm shelters, and companies that market storm shelter kits, allowing you to build your own. You can find more tips online. We’ve listed many of them here for you, to save you the time and research.

Measure out the dimensions you’ve chosen for your structure. This is key to designing successful build your own storm shelters, and don’t forget to measure as you dig your hole for the shelter, to ensure that the dimensions are consistent as you go.

Using a lift system, gently lower your completed storm shelter into the hole you dug. Be sure to leave some room for the shelter to poke out a few inches above the ground so it will be easy to find and use during an emergency, as well as plenty of space for you to reinforce with concrete.

Fill the space around the shelter midway with concrete, to set the shelter into the ground and provide stability. Allow a day for the concrete to set and dry. If you are incorporating any electrical or water components in your shelter, now is the time to fit these. Next, fill the remaining space with dirt, compacting it down as you go to ensure a tight fit.

Now that you have a tornado shelter, you’ll need to make sure you fill it with the supplies that you will need when it’s in use. Bottled water, non-perishable food items, flashlights, batteries, a transistor radio, even a board game or two if you have children that need a distraction. Be sure you check your supplies every now and then to see if anything needs to be replenished.

There are several types of wood that are used in the construction of outdoor furniture, and these range from variations within the hardwood species, right through to the softwood species[spin]. Depending on the type of wood you decide to use, will greatly affect the overall cost of the furniture.

This is by far the most popular style of furniture for patios and decks as well. Casual plastic wicker patio furniture allows you to maintain that homey feel even when outside of the home. This type of patio furniture can bring a certain level of warmth and d

Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days

Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
— non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
— foods for infants or the elderly
— snack foods
— non-electric can opener
— cooking tools / fuel
— paper plates / plastic utensils

Blankets / Pillows, etc.

Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes

First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs

Special Items - for babies and the elderly

Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes

Flashlight / Batteries

Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio

Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set

Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods

Keys

Toys, Books and Games

Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag
— insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.

Tools - keep a set with you during the storm

Vehicle fuel tanks filled

Pet care items
— proper identification / immunization records / medications
— ample supply of food and water
— a carrier or cage
— muzzle and leash

Tell us what is in your kit.

Experts agree that you should make a hurricane evacuation plan that includes the following:

Identify ahead of time where you could go if you are told to evacuate. Choose several places–a friend’s home in another town, a motel, or a shelter.

Keep handy the telephone numbers of these places as well as a road map of your locality. You may need to
Make Hurricane Plans!
Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for evacuation instructions. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

Take these items with you when evacuating:

* Prescription medications and medical supplies;
* Bedding and clothing, including sleeping bags and pillows
* Bottled water, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, first aid kit, flashlight
* Car keys and maps
* Documents, including driver’s license, Social Security card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, etc.

Know the difference between hurricane watches and warnings.

HURRICANE WATCH: Hurricane conditions are possible in the specified area of the WATCH, usually within 36 hours.

HURRICANE WARNING: Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the WARNING, usually within 24 hours.

Experts agree on the following action plan:

What to in a Hurricane WATCH

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for up-to-date storm information.

Prepare to bring inside any lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash cans, hanging plants, and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.

Prepare to cover all windows of your home. If shutters have not been installed, use precut plywood as described above. Note: Tape does not prevent windows from breaking, so taping windows is not recommended.

Fill your car’s gas tank.

Recheck manufactured home tie-downs.

Check batteries and stock up on canned food, first aid supplies, drinking water, and medications.

What to in a Hurricane WARNING

Listen to the advice of local officials, and leave if they tell you to do so.

Complete preparation activities.

If you are not advised to evacuate, stay indoors, away from windows.

Be aware that the calm “eye” is deceptive; the storm is not over. The worst part of the storm will happen once the eye passes over and the winds blow from the opposite direction. Trees, shrubs, buildings, and other objects damaged by the first winds can be broken or destroyed by the second winds.

Be alert for tornadoes. Tornadoes can happen during a hurricane and after it passes over. Remain indoors, in the center of your home, in a closet or bathroom without windows.

Stay away from flood waters. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and climb to higher ground.

It is critical that you be informed and prepare for a hurricane or tropical storm before it arrives. Develop your hurricane evacuation plan and review it with your love ones. Assemble a Emergency Supply Kit with the critical items you will need, and plan to secure your house and belongings.

The most improtant decision you will make is “Should I Evacuate?”

It is unlikely that emergency managers will ask you to evacuate, but if you are asked to evacuate, do so without delay! That means that it is important for you and your family to HAVE A PLAN that makes you as safe as possible.

Disaster prevention includes securing your home and having the critical supplies on hand to survive the storm. This site has many helpfull suggestions, but you should use common sense in your disaster prevention.