Maintaining Your Storm Shelter So It’s Ready When You Need It

Once a storm shelter is in the ground or installed in your garage, it’s easy to forget about it. The problem is that your shelter only helps if it is ready to use when the weather gets serious. A little routine care goes a long way and doesn’t take much time.

Start at the entrance. Keep the door clear of tools, trash cans, and anything else that might slow you down during a warning. Open and close the door every so often to make sure hinges, latches, and seals still move smoothly. If you ever notice rust, damage, or a change in how the door closes, it’s time to have a professional take a look.

Step inside and check the interior. Look for moisture, leaks, or standing water on the floor. Make sure ventilation openings aren’t blocked. Keep a couple of flashlights with fresh batteries, a battery powered lantern, and basic supplies like water, snacks, a small first aid kit, and a pair of sturdy shoes. Many families also store blankets, a weather radio, and copies of important phone numbers in a sealed container.

Set a reminder to do this check at least twice a year, and anytime after a major storm. If you see anything that doesn’t look right, call Biggs for guidance or a service visit. Your storm shelter is a serious piece of safety equipment. A few minutes of maintenance now can make a big difference when you need to move fast and trust that space with the people you care about most.