Yes, directional arrows are essential for effective wayfinding, guiding people from their current location to the designated shelter. These arrows eliminate confusion and reduce evacuation time during a stressful event. The inclusion of clear directional markings is a key principle in safety standards like the NFPA 101 Life Safety Code. We provide numerous directional signs, such as our Tornado Shelter Sign with Right Arrow and our main Evacuation Route Signs department.

Outdoor emergency shelter signs are typically made from durable, weather-resistant materials like heavy-duty, rust-proof aluminum or engineer-grade plastic. These materials are chosen to withstand UV exposure, rain, and temperature changes without fading or deteriorating, ensuring long-term legibility. A robust aluminum sign like our Emergency Shelter Tornado Sign is an excellent example of a long-lasting outdoor solution. You can learn more about material durability by watching our video on how long your sign will last.

For temporary shelters, often used during a disaster activation, flexible and lightweight materials are recommended for rapid deployment. These can include adhesive vinyl decals for application on smooth surfaces, or weather-resistant corrugated plastic signs that can be easily mounted on stakes. The American Red Cross and other response organizations frequently use such temporary signage. Our custom yard signs are a great example of a temporary, easy-to-deploy sign solution.

Shelter signs should be mounted at a height that is clearly visible, usually on walls, and positioned at decision points like hallway intersections or entrances. They should be well-lit and unobstructed. For enhanced visibility from multiple directions, a projecting sign, such as our Tornado Shelter Projecting Sign, is an excellent choice. Mounting guidelines are often specified by the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design to ensure they can be seen by everyone.