Storms in Oklahoma can strike fast—and without warning. If you have a storm shelter, you’ve already taken a major step toward protecting your family. But safety doesn’t stop at installation. What you keep inside your shelter can make all the difference in an emergency.
Whether it’s a tornado, high winds, or another severe weather event, here are six essential items to stock in your shelter—before the next storm hits.
💧 1. Water & Non-Perishable Food
You may be in your shelter longer than expected. Keep at least a 3-day supply of bottled water and shelf-stable food for every person in your household. Good options include:
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Protein bars
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Canned soups or chili
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Dried fruits and nuts
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Jerky
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Powdered drink mixes
Store extra jugs of water in case of power outages, and don’t forget a manual can opener!
🩹 2. First Aid Kit & Medications
A basic first aid kit is a must. Include:
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Bandages and gauze
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Antiseptic wipes and ointment
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Tweezers and scissors
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Pain relievers and allergy meds
Also pack any daily prescriptions your family depends on. If a storm damages your home, access to a pharmacy could be delayed.
🔦 3. Flashlight & Extra Batteries
Oklahoma storms often knock out power. Keep a flashlight (or two) and plenty of backup batteries on hand. Headlamps are also helpful if you need hands-free light to care for kids or pets.
See more ways to prepare for storm season in Oklahoma →
🛏️ 4. Blankets & Warm Clothing
Storm shelters—especially below ground—can get cold and damp. Include:
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Fleece or wool blankets
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Warm jackets and socks
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Hats and gloves
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Extra layers for children or older adults
Pack sleeping bags if you expect to shelter overnight.
📻 5. Battery-Powered Weather Radio
When your phone dies or signal drops, a NOAA weather radio is your lifeline. It can keep you informed about tornado warnings, watches, and all-clear updates—even if the grid is down.
📄 6. Important Documents & Emergency Info
Store laminated or ziplock-bagged copies of:
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Photo IDs
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Health insurance cards
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Emergency contact numbers
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Home and auto insurance policies
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A recent utility bill
Pro tip: Add a notepad and pen. If cell service fails, you’ll have a backup way to share info.
📝 Bonus Tip: Practice Your Plan
Having supplies is only part of the prep. Review your storm plan regularly—especially with kids. Know where your storm shelter is located, how to access it quickly, and what to do when tornado sirens go off.
Need help choosing the right shelter size or setup? Check out our storm shelter size guide.
✅ Conclusion
When a tornado strikes, having the right items in your storm shelter can help keep your family safe, calm, and cared for—no matter how long you need to wait it out. These essentials won’t just help in a crisis, they’ll give you peace of mind every time the wind picks up.
Want to make sure your shelter is storm-season ready? The experts at Sprague’s Backhoe can answer your questions, recommend the right products, and help you plan for safety with confidence.
📞 Contact us today or explore our storm shelter options. Let’s get prepared—together.
