Tents
A tent provides emergency shelter during a disaster
Planning shelter for you and your family is a critical part of disaster preparation. If there is damage to your home to the extent that it is unsafe for habitation, camping tents provide a sheltered place in which to sleep.
Your home is generally the safest place to be in an emergency, unless it is in the path of a fire, tornado, hurricane, landslide or flood. Once any immediate danger has passed and you are allowed to return to your home, if it is safe to enter, it is probably still the best place to seek shelter.
If your home is not safe to inhabit, family tents can be used for emergency shelter. Tents are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes and styles. The first decision in selecting the best tent is to determine how many people it will need to accommodate. If the tent will be used to store equipment as well, it may be a good idea to add one or two people to the tent’s capacity.
Next, consider what level of protection the tent should offer. If weather conditions in your area are extreme, your best choice is a tent which is rated for four-season use. If you live in a mild climate, a two-season or three-season tent should suffice.
Tent manufacturers use a variety of materials in their products. The strongest tent poles are made from fiberglass or aluminum alloys. Choose sturdy and reliable materials, since you don't have to worry about weight limits like you would if you were purchasing backpacking tents. Tent fabrics also vary; while canvas tents are traditional, ensure that the tent you select offers protection from rain, wind and even snow, if your area receives snow in the winter.
Expect to spend a fair amount of money for a sturdy tent that is also easy to set up. While cheap tents are readily available, you may regret buying one when it comes time to try to erect it and live in it. Fire blankets and sleeping bags are excellent accessories to consider as well.
Why Is a Tent Important in a Disaster Kit?
- Emergency shelter can be difficult to find when a disaster strikes.
- Tents offer shelter for multiple people.
- Tents are lightweight and easily transportable, making it convenient to seek refuge at a safe location.
Things to Consider When Buying a Tent
- How many people should the tent accommodate?
- What level of protection (season rating) should the tent have?
- What materials would provide the most warmth and protection in your climate?
Top Brands of Tents
- Coleman tents
- Eureka tents
- Mountain Hardwear tents
