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As hurricane season nears its end, Metairie, LA, residents are getting ready to breathe a sigh of relief. However, there's still a full month left, and it only takes one storm to cause serious damage. If you live in the area, you'll want to make sure that your home is ready to handle even the worst possible weather disaster. From educating your family to renting a private storage unit, there are many ways to protect yourself and your home. Create your own disaster preparedness plan using the following tips from Safeguard Self Storage.
Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Your Home
- Trim all overhanging tree branches and unruly shrubs. Consider having dead or unhealthy trees removed.
- If you don't have storm shutters, use pre-cut plywood to protect your windows. Your local home improvement store can offer specific advice about boarding up windows and doors.
- Remove all patio furniture, toys and lawn equipment from your yard. These items can be damaged by flood waters, and they may also cause serious injury or structural damage if they become airborne during a storm. Store them safely in a private storage unit until the danger has passed.
- Eliminate all fire hazards inside and outside your home.
- Secure large, heavy or unstable indoor appliances and furniture that could cause injury.
- Use cabinet locks to secure dishes and cookware.
- If you live in a mobile home, check your tie downs. If a severe storm is expected, consider finding temporary shelter.
- Teach your children and all other family members how to safely turn off electricity, gas and water in case it becomes necessary.
- Create a disaster supply kit complete with water, food, prescription medicines, blankets, clothing, first aid essentials and flashlights.
- If you are forced to evacuate, take all of your insurance policy information with you and leave a note to enable others to reach you.
- If your home sustains significant damage from hurricane winds or flood water, contact your insurance company immediately. Unless you are unable to leave, do not remain in unsafe conditions. While you may be able to fix some damage on your own, your exposure to mold, smoke or biological contaminates in water could cause serious health problems; uncertain conditions should be evaluated by professionals before repairs are made.
Extra Storage Space Can Be a Lifesaver
Besides keeping your outdoor furniture out of harm's way, a self-storage unit can be stocked with extra water, non-perishable food, medications and other essentials. You can even use it to store your possessions temporarily while you make repairs to your home. Contact Safeguard Self Storage for information about affordable, climate-controlled home and commercial storage options in Metairie, LA, Kenner,LA and New Orleans, LA.