Do tornado shelters need to be stocked with food?

Essential Food Supplies

When stocking a tornado shelter with food, prioritize non-perishable items that are high in calories and nutrients. Consider the number of people who will be in the shelter and plan accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to store at least 1-2 pounds of non-perishable food per person per day. This can include canned goods such as beans, vegetables, and meats, as well as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits. Don’t forget to include a manual can opener to access these food sources. Some examples of suitable non-perishable foods include MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat), which provide 1,200-1,300 calories per meal, and Datrex emergency bars, which contain 2,400 calories per bar.

Water Storage

In addition to food, it’s essential to store enough clean drinking water for each person in the shelter. A general guideline is to store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. This translates to 2-3 days’ worth of water for a standard household. Make sure to label and date all water containers to ensure you use the oldest water first. Consider investing in a water purification system or tablets as an alternative to storing large quantities of bottled water.

Additional Considerations

When stocking a tornado shelter with food, remember to include any necessary cooking equipment, such as a portable stove or camping grill, as well as fuel for these appliances. It’s also a good idea to store a manual coffee maker or other morale-boosting items to help maintain a sense of normalcy during an emergency. Consider the specific needs of any family members with dietary restrictions or allergies when selecting food and water supplies.