The FEMA shelter is owned by the Dallas County School District and constructed to provide protection for the students and staff during tornado and extreme high wind events. The tornado shelter is also available for residents in the community that do not have a safe place to shelter during these extreme weather events.
Information on the Shelter:
a. The OEM makes the recommendation to open the shelter when there is a:
- A severe thunderstorm warning (if wind speed is greater than 75 MPH)
- A tornado warning
b. Sirens are sounded within the city of Buffalo when the storm is within three miles of Buffalo
c. City and County emergency managers make the decisions to activate the sirens, and 911 activates the sirens
d. The maximum capacity of the shelter is 1,895 people
e. The tornado shelter is equipped with an emergency back-up diesel powered generator that will supply the shelter with power for 48 hours.
Individuals who have physical impairments, special medical alerts, and/or service animals, will need to complete a Special Needs form which can be obtained at the district office. These forms will be kept on file with the Assistant Superintendent. As a reminder, pets are not allowed in the shelter. Parking for the shelter is located in the North parking lot of BHS and anyone needing handicapped parking should use the parking lot at Dallas County Technical Center. Signs are posted to direct individuals to the shelter. If you have any questions, please contact the administration office.
