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This post was created in November 2013, but has been updated in 2023 for accuracy and to reflect current details. The National Storm Shelter Association (NSSA) was formed in 2001 with the idea of protecting people from tornadoes and other disasters by ensuring that their members produce and sell the highest quality storm shelters possible. The […]

Summer is here at last!  As parents, we have a mix of emotions, because, while some of us parents are at work, our kids are free from school and schedules.  As parents, it is up to us to make sure, even when we are not with them, that they are safe!Teaching summer safety tips to…

Thunder is nature’s warning call.  If you have ever seen the sign, “When thunder roars, go indoors!”  then you know it is true.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) believe in not taking chances when it comes to lightning.One of the best ways to protect yourself from lightning…

Tornado weather is unpredictable and chaotic.  Especially since tornadoes can wreak havoc on large and small communities alike, from large businesses to small families.  Science has yet to find a way to give advanced notice of impending tornadoes.  Even hurricanes have a few day’s lead time, so those being impacted can make the decision to…

Residential storm shelters have come a long way in the last several years.  These days, if someone is talking about their storm shelter, often, they are referring to an above ground structure that is located inside the garage or home for easy access. That’s not to say that the below ground shelters are becoming obsolete.…

We get this question all the time—what are the pros and cons of each?  Let’s take a look:Below Ground Shelters:    Pros:You are underground, so the chances of a tornado getting to you are nearly impossible.It doesn’t take up any of your “living space”Cons: Rain might seep in while you are hiding inside.Not ADA compliantBugs and other…

FEMA, also known as the Federal Emergency Management Agency, is a government agency that assists communities in times of floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural or man-made disasters.  Every county across the nation has or should have an Emergency Management Agency that works within their county to assist in disasters.  They help obtain funding for…

Many natural and unexpected disasters occur every single day.  It is the ‘not knowing’ if people in your circle are alive and okay that can cause even more trauma to those who are left to wonder until contact has been made.  Thankfully in today’s world of excessive communication through social media outlets and new and…

There are several great organizations that assist those in need after man-made and natural disaster occur.  Knowing who to call is key.  Red Cross is one of the top volunteer organizations who begin organizing and developing teams to go into devastated areas and begin with clean-up, helping those in need of medical assistance or who…

To ditch or not to ditch, THAT is the question. Have you ever wondered what you would do if you were driving down the road and spotted a tornado heading your way? Our nature might direct us towards the nearest underpass and hide there until it is over. Surely an underpass is strong enough to…

Once a tornado has swept through, causing damage in your area, there are hazards that you need to be aware of so that you and others around you will stay safe.  Sometimes people get so caught up in the damages, or are ecstatic for still being alive, they don’t stop to think about other dangers…

It is difficult to predict tornadoes.  They seem to have a mind of their own.  Even meteorologists can only look at dangerous weather patterns and be on the lookout for them.  It isn’t until a tornado is spotted, either by an observer or via radio satellite, that we are even aware one is around.  This…

If you are a weather watcher, it might be beneficial for you to own a weather radio.  A weather radio is designed to pick-up weather forecasts from public broadcasting services called ‘weather radio’.  This kind of weather information has been available since the 1950’s and is a way for people across the nation to receive…