Tornado season has already begun, bringing devastating events—even to areas not typically considered high risk. Recently, parts of Michigan experienced a Level 1 warning, indicating only a minimal chance of a tornado. Despite this low risk, tornadoes did occur, and communities such as Union City, Three Rivers, and Edwardsburg suffered significant loss.
At the same time, many individuals and families are relocating from high-cost states to regions such as Tennessee, Arkansas, and Texas—areas where tornadoes are more common. Unfortunately, many newcomers have little to no experience with these powerful storms.
Tornadoes are not the only concern. Hurricane season begins on June 1, and high winds associated with these storms can also cause widespread damage. Whether you are new to these regions or a long-time resident without the resources to invest in a professionally built storm shelter, it is important to take steps to better protect your family.
While a reinforced room cannot replace a certified safe room, strengthening an interior space in your home can significantly improve your safety during severe weather.
Choosing a Safer Location
If you do not have a certified safe room, begin by identifying the safest possible area in your home. Look for a space that meets the following criteria:
- Located on the lowest level of the home (a basement is ideal)
- An interior room with no windows
- Positioned near the center of the home, away from exterior walls
Suitable options include:
- Hallway closets
- Windowless bathrooms
- Pantries or storage rooms
- Enclosed spaces beneath stairs
Avoid:
- Rooms with windows
- Large, open spaces. These are more prone to collapse.
- Mobile homes—seek sturdier shelter elsewhere if possible
Reinforcing Your Space
Once you have selected a location, take steps to strengthen it:
- Remove the sheet rock and bolt the framing to the floor and ceiling, continue by adding more bracing between the studs.
- Reinforce stud connections with metal brackets.
- Add sheets of ¾-inch plywood to the walls and ceiling. We sure to use 3-4 inch wood screws, not nails, as screws resist the winds as they grip the wood.
- Steel sheets – Thin steel panels placed over plywood add extra protection.
- Replace drywall after reinforcement for added strength and a finished look.
- Don’t forget fifth wall, the ceiling, when reenforcing wall.
- Anchor heavy furniture (such as bookcases) in adjacent rooms for added structural support
- Replace hollow core doors with metal or solid wood doors.
- Add heavy-duty hinges.
- Install a deadbolt or slide bolt to keep the door secured during strong winds.
- When possible, have the door open inward to prevent being trapped by debris following the storm.
Stocking Your Safe Space
Now that your room has been reenforced it is time to stock your room. Move unused blankets, towels, bedding etc. to a closet in another room if you are using a bathroom so you have space to store items needed during an emergency. Remember you may have a day or two to prepare for a hurricane but only minutes to get into your safe area when a tornado threatens.
- Helmets (bike, sports, or hard hats) for head protection
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Flashlights with extra batteries or glow sticks
- Battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio
- First aid kit
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks. These may be used during a storm but may also be the only items left to comfort and sustain your family following the storm.
- Closed-toe shoes for each family member
- Phone charger (preferably one usable in a vehicle) If there is no power following the storm, an auto charger will provide the ability to keep your phone charged.
- Whistle for signaling for help. A whistle can be heard more easily than a voice. When surrounded by debris calling out can damage your lungs.
- Pet supplies such as leashes or carriers
Also:
- Remove heavy objects from high shelves
- Clear clutter to allow everyone to fit safely on the floor
Before Entering Your Safe Room
When a storm is imminent:
- Close all interior doors to help slow debris
- Close and lock all windows. We once believed opening a window would help during a storm, it actually increases damage.
- Lower blinds and close drapes to reduce the spread of broken glass. Glass, branches, and fencing can penetrate walls propelled by high winds.
- Turn off HVAC systems to limit debris circulation
- Grab your phone. Cell towers may be down, but they may not be affected and if you are hurt or trapped you will want to communicate and get help.
- If possible, bring a mattress or thick padding to shield against falling debris
Inside the Safe Room
- Put on helmets
- Cover head and body with blankets or sleeping bags
- Get as low as possible, preferably on the floor or in a bathtub
- Turn on your weather radio and monitor updates
A reinforced room is not equivalent to a professionally constructed safe room; however, it can greatly reduce the risk of injury, particularly from flying debris—the leading cause of storm-related harm.
Preparation is key. While we hope these measures are never needed, those who plan ahead are far better equipped to endure and recover from disasters. Take time to review these steps with your family, incorporate them into your emergency plans, add this article to your emergency binder and prepare now—before severe weather strikes.
