Storm Shelter Sparkle: Maintain the Clean and Safe Retreat
When the skies turn dark and the winds begin to howl, it's essential to have a safe place to take refuge. In areas like Oklahoma City, severe weather can strike unexpectedly, making it crucial to be prepared. While a tornado shelter may be the first thing that comes to mind, keeping it clean and well-maintained can ensure its functionality and keep you and your loved ones safe.
Storm shelters are crucial structures for homeowners in Oklahoma City, where tornadoes and severe weather are common occurrences.
Having a safe place to retreat during a storm can save lives, but keeping these shelters clean and maintained regularly is essential to ensure their functionality.
In this blog post, we'll go over the steps on how to clean a storm shelter properly and keep it in top condition.
Storm Shelter Cleaning 101: The Ultimate Guide to Being Prepared
Before you begin cleaning your shelter, it's essential to plan ahead. Check the weather forecast and choose a day when the weather is calm, dry and sunny. You don't want to be cleaning your tornado shelter during a storm and you don't want to be cleaning up a muddy, wet floor. Ensure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies, such as gloves, a broom, a dustpan, a mop and disinfectants.
Decluttering Your Shelter: Tips for Removing Debris and Unwanted Items
The first step in cleaning your shelter is to remove any debris or clutter that may have accumulated.
Sweep the floor, remove any leaves or dirt and dispose of them outside.
If you notice any damaged items, such as broken chairs or ripped blankets, remove them from the shelter.
Clutter can be a tripping hazard during a storm, so keeping the shelter as clean and organized as possible is best.
A Clean Sweep: Techniques for Tackling Different Types of Tornado Shelter Flooring
Once the debris gets removed, it's time to thoroughly clean the floor. Depending on the type of flooring, you may need to use a different cleaning method. For example, if your tornado shelter has a concrete floor, you can sweep it with a broom and mop it with warm water and soap. Use a wood cleaner or polish for wooden floors to keep them in good condition. Whatever cleaning method you choose, ensure the floor is completely dry before placing any items back inside.
Germ Warfare: The Importance of Disinfecting Your Shelter's Surfaces
It's vital to disinfect all surfaces thoroughly to ensure a clean and safe storm shelter.
Make sure to look at walls, shelves and door handles when cleaning.
Disinfecting surfaces helps prevent the spread of germs and viruses and it's always a crucial step in maintaining a healthy living environment.
Make sure to use a high-quality disinfectant spray or wipes and if you need clarification on which products to use, check with the CDC for recommendations. By regularly disinfecting your shelter, you'll be ready for storm season and any situation that requires a hygienic living space.
Unwanted Guests: How to Keep Pests Out of Your Storm Shelter
These shelters can be a haven for pests like spiders, mice and snakes. Check for signs of infestation, such as webs, droppings or chewed items.
If you notice any pests, contact a pest control professional to address the problem.
Additionally, to prevent pests from entering the shelter in the future, seal any cracks or holes in the walls or floors.
Safety First: Checking for Damage and Maintaining Your Shelter's Integrity
The final step in cleaning your shelter is to check for any damage. Look for cracks or leaks in the walls, ceiling or floor. Check the door and hinges to ensure they are in good condition and can be securely locked during a storm. If you notice any damage, contact a professional to repair it immediately.
EF5 Tornado Shelters - Safety Loading
Storm shelter maintenance can be time-consuming and challenging, but it's a small price to pay for your safety during a storm. Regular cleaning can also help extend the lifespan of your shelter and prevent costly repairs down the line. At EF5 Tornado Shelters, we offer a range of high-quality storm shelters in OKC that are durable to withstand the strongest tornadoes.
Our shelters are built with steel construction and are anchored to a concrete slab to ensure maximum protection. Contact us today to learn more about our shelters and how we can help keep you and your loved ones safe during a storm.