Storm Shelters

When tornados or severe thunderstorm warnings are issued, time is of the essence. These storms can produce winds over 100mph.  Winds of this speed will pick up all types of debris, turning it into dangerous projectiles.  These projectiles are capable of penetrating and injuring anyone and anything in their path.  However, taking shelter from the winds has proven time and time again to save lives.  

Sheltering In-Place

Unless you are in a mobile home, vehicle, or portable building, sheltering in place is usually the best plan of action.  The best place to shelter is in the basement or below ground.  Typically, the main threat when below ground is from a damaged building falling in.  Unfortunately, very few houses in Duncan have basements.  There are ways to safely seek shelter above ground.  The main goal is to prevent wind driven projectiles from penetrating your walls to where you are sheltering.  Therefore, it is best to choose a location with as many walls between you and the outside world as possible. Choosing a small room on the lowest level is best.  Remember an interior room will provide you with additional walls of protection.  You will also want to try and get under something sturdy if possible and cover yourself with coats, blankets, or pillows.  Again, you are trying to protect yourself from flying debris and falling walls.  Make sure wherever your shelter location is that you do not have any large heavy items on a shelf above your head.  Information on improving your home to better withstand storms as well as building a storm safe room can be found from FEMA at Safe Rooms | FEMA.gov and Texas Tech University Wind Engineering Research Center at Storm Shelter Research | National Wind Institute | TTU . 

Community Shelters

City of Duncan does not have any community tornado shelters.  This is due to studies that show sheltering in place is less of a risk than getting out in a storm to drive to a shelter.  The average tornado warning is generally 10 – 15 minutes which leaves very little time for someone to receive the warning, decide to leave their home, grab their belongings and drive to a shelter.  Overall sheltering in a small interior room in the home is less of a risk than seeking shelter outside of the home or getting caught in the storm while driving in a car. 

Storm Shelter Registration

Residents are encouraged to complete the registration below to have their storm shelter placed on the City of Duncan’s master storm shelter list. Registered storm shelters may only be an above-ground safe room, below-ground storm shelter, or basement.  City of Duncan Storm shelter registration is a program managed by Duncan Emergency Management through a certified, contracted vendor.  The purpose of the storm shelter registry is to provide a database of storm shelter locations in Duncan to assist emergency agencies in providing aid to victims of severe weather.  The registry is a valuable tool for emergency agencies in locating and assisting residents that may be trapped in their storm shelter by storm debris.   

How to participate

Sign up your shelter by registering using the below link.  Please note that this list will not be available to the general public or for public viewing.