Shelter

Shelter is an important element of Emergency Preparedness. Shelter provides protection from the elements, wind, rain, cold, snow, heat, etc. It provides security, helps maintain dignity, modesty, and independence, as well as unity for family. We need to consider the psychological and emotional security and comfort as well as physical health that shelter provides.

When possible it is best to stay in your own home. Next would be securing your own type of shelter and last resort would be a community shelter.

TYPES OF SHELTER ARE LISTED BELOW:

TENT

Since we live in a area with snow and winds you might consider an "All-Season" or "Four Season" tent with sturdy aluminum poles - avoid fiberglass poles. Some of these tents have set up for a wood stove inside. Practice setting up your tent. A stressful situation is not the time to figure out how to set up a tent.

TARPS/PLASTIC SHEETING: can help to keep things dry and be used as a temporary shelter or give another layer of water protection over a tent. Look for UV protection and heavy-duty sheeting.

TOOLS AND ASSESORIES: Hammer, heavy stakes, ropes, poles, tent mending kit, stake puller, shovel, etc. Consider all that you will need to set up you tent securely and add comforts inside.

RVs - TRAILER, MOTORHOME, CAMPER

These provide great shelter but moving it or finding a place to set up may be a challenge. Be sure you have it stocked before you need it. Do you have enough fuel?

RELATIVE OR FRIEND'S HOME

Is there someone else you could stay with? How easy will it be to get there? Do you have enough fuel to make it? What do you need to take with you? Have an agreement already in place, don't just show up expecting shelter.

HOTEL/MOTEL

This can be a costly option, and availability may be a problem especially if others are needing shelter too.

SHED, BARN, OR SHOP

It is a place that can keep people out of the elements. Do you have a place to offer to others?

CHURCHES, COMMUNITY SHELTERS

Churches are often offered as shelters. Do you know where you can go?

Community shelters should be avoided if possible unless you know if it is safe and secure.

INFORMATION TO REVIEW:

STAY PUT - LEARN HOW TO SHELTER IN PLACE (cdc.gov)

SHELTER (ready.gov)

EMERGENCY SHELTER SOLUTIONS AND STANDARDS (unchr.org)

Google Sites

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