Over the summer, storm and tornado shelters were installed in Guthrie County at Lenon Mill and Nations Bridge Parks.

Guthrie County Conservation Director Brad Halterman says that the shelters are great new additions which provide extra safety for people using the parks if needed. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio what he likes most about having them.

“It’s peace of mind, right? They were very much appreciated with the Board of Supervisors working to get these installed in the parks. And so, it’s one of those things where it’s peace of mind. We’re very glad, very thankful, very blessed to have them in the parks. But at the same time, it’s also something that you’re okay with if you never have to use. So we’ve got them, they’re all set up. They’re very nice buildings, very nice facilities.”

Halterman mentions that they do have a policy in place for the shelters, explaining that they are not open 24/7. He adds that when tornado or thunderstorm watches and warnings are issued for Guthrie County, the shelters will be unlocked, and will be available for use should they be needed.