When it comes to preparing for the upcoming hurricane season, you might be thinking of investing in a secure self storage unit. After all, self-storage units are ideal for those extra items like patio furniture and outdoor decor.
When you locate a convenient storage facility, be sure that you can secure an extra level of protection by purchasing an optional tenant protection plan. Storage Shield’s tenant protection plan coverage pays replacement costs, up to a certain amount, for wind and the additional damage that a hurricane can cause.
To keep your unit secure throughout hurricane season, follow these tips to ensure that your storage unit is ready when the next storm strikes.
Prepare Your Self Storage Unit for Hurricane Season
Choose the Correct Storage Facility and Unit
If possible, choose an indoor unit in a concrete facility to reduce the chances of wind and rain damage. If you don’t have the option of an indoor unit, be aware that there is a higher risk of damage. Most storage insurance will cover natural disasters. Remember to check with your insurance agent to determine your personal “off-premises” coverage, and find out whether your chosen facility offers a tenant protection plan.
Store Certain Items to Prevent Damage or Injury
A secure, affordable, weather-proof storage unit is ideal for protecting your belongings should a hurricane occur. For your safety and that of your neighbors, we recommend keeping the following items in a storage unit during hurricane season.
- Patio and lawn furniture
- Gardening and power tools
- Outdoor decorations
- Vehicles, including bikes, cars, boats, and RVs
Lock your Storage Unit Properly
To protect your belongings from theft, you should also ensure that your unit is properly locked. When units are not securely locked, thieves can easily jimmy open the door to access your storage unit. This is especially concerning during the hurricane season when many residents are seeking shelter away from the area.
Store Items in Plastic Bins
Plastic containers will keep your items safe from moisture and the resulting mold and mildew. Take the time to label your bins for easy retrieval. Store important documents in watertight containers.
USe Pallets and Tarps
Place pallets on the floor, and cover them with plastic tarps before stacking your stored items. This will protect your containers from sitting on a potentially wet floor. If you’re storing heavy items, check to ensure that the pallets are strong enough to withstand the weight.
Organize Strategically
Stack valuable, sentimental, or fragile items on top of items that are less expensive or meaningful to you. This will lessen the risk of deterioration of your more costly items.
Visit Your Storage Unit Pre and Post-Storm
If possible, visit your storage unit prior to the storm to pick up anything that you may need. Find time to visit post-hurricane to ensure that everything is safe and hasn’t suffered moisture damage. If you do find moisture damage, you can do a bit of clean-up to deter mold and mildew.
Conclusion
Following are a few additional tips to help prepare you and your family for a hurricane:
- Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plan.
- Learn your evacuation routes and identify where you will stay.
- Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless
- Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no-sign up.
- Declutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture (store it), and consider hurricane shutters.
- Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
- Have enough supplies for your household, including medication, disinfectant supplies, and pet supplies in your go-bag or car trunk.
When life and property are at risk, it’s worthwhile to spend time and effort on preparation. Placing your belongings in self storage can provide you with an extra layer of protection during a hurricane or any type of tropical storm, and a tenant protection plan can help you avoid a major loss.