Revitalizing an Old Storm Shelter

Make sure your old storm shelter is safe and up to date to help keep your family protected in case of disaster. Revitalizing an old storm shelter is easier than you might think as most of the hard work has already been done for you. Your project may simply involve a few component replacements.

Step 1 – Check the Door

Many of the old storm shelters were equipped with a wooden door because anything heavier would be too heavy to open after the storm was over. It would also be impossible to get out if there was a storm which blew trees and other refuse over the door. The new iron doors you can install in a storm shelter are equipped with a hydraulic system in order to help you lift the door no matter what may be on the other side of the door. This will allow you to have all the safety of iron with the simple to open weight of a wooden door.

Step 2 – Create a Second Entrance

Whether you are looking to use your old shelter as a disaster refuge, a fallout shelter or a saferoom, you need to have a second entrance. The simple fact is no matter what kind of door you have on your shelter, you may not be able to get out the way you came in. A fallen tree, collapsed tunnel or even a car may block your original entry point, making it impossible to get out. Having a second entrance gives you more options.

Step 3 – Create a Restroom

Many of the old shelters did not have any provisions for using the restroom. This is because there was no way to connect a water supply to the shelter which would be safe. You have the option of adding a septic system to shelters these days by adding a portable water tank to the shelter. You will be able to flush the toilet and keep the shelter in a livable state much longer. The portable tank can be used in addition to your own supply of water in order to give you something you can drink to stay alive.

Step 4 – Update Supplies

Check the expiration date on everything in the shelter. If it is out of date, you should get rid of it. If it will be out of date in 6 months, you should go ahead and use it in your home so it does not go to waste. Restock the shelter with all brand new items including a first aid kit. You should go through and update all food supplies every six months in order to be prepared at any time for a long duration.

Step 5 – Clean It Up

Most likely the old shelter will be dirty. Not to worry wan the designs were of concrete or steel. This will clean up with some soap and water very easily.