Page 28 Fall Home Improvement 2026 Lincoln Daily News Equipping your storm shelter: What you need, what you don’t need Mother Nature has taken a toll on Illinois this year, with tornadoes beginning as early as February. As Illinois has shattered its record for tornadoes in one year with over 200 so far in 2026, and as Tornado Alley shifts east, it is wise to take a moment to prepare for a storm. When a storm warning is issued, it is often too late to search for and gather your necessities, so being prepared and having a designated kit and safe space is important when it comes to staying safe and informed during the storm and being prepared in the worst-case scenario. The first step in being prepared is knowing where to go when the storm hits. A storm shelter is great, but not always available. Stay away from windows to avoid flying glass. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommends putting as many walls as possible between yourself and the outside and prioritizing the lowest level of the home. If the home does not have a basement, a small bathroom or closet in the central part of the home is recommended. Once you have a designated safe space to ride out the storm, make sure your family knows where to go in case of a weather emergency. If you have children, practice your emergency plans with them. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends having thick blankets or mattresses in your shelter to protect against flying debris and structural collapse.
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