The Mississippi River, Lake Salvador and the Gulf of Mexico – Harvey, LA is surrounded by water everywhere. From the rivers to the sea, each body of water has a ton of aquatic life for your family to discover. On March 18, Safeguard Self Storage is celebrating Submarine Day by sharing awesome ways to learn about underwater exploration – including tips for turning your child’s room into an oasis under the sea.

Learning more about Underwater Life

Downtown Harvey, LA sits seven miles from the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans. Whether it's stingrays, seahorses or sharks, you can see all types of aquatic life, as well as animals like the otter that love both water and land. During your visit, make sure to take the kids to the Penguin Pass, which takes them backstage for a chance to meet the penguins up close.

On March 18, celebrate Submarine Day with a trip to the aquarium. Your kids will see and learn about different kinds of fish and watch them up close as they swim in the tank. You can also use this experience to come up with some really cool underwater ideas for a DIY room decorating project.

Creating an Underwater Room for Kids

With a little imagination and a few items, you'll transform your kid’s room into an underwater world. For the lighting, replace the standard bulbs in the lamps with light and dark blue bulbs. Using a textured lamp shade will help to cast a water pattern on the walls, and the blue light will add to the effect.

If you’re artistically inclined, a few painted fish and coral will add the perfect touch to your sea faring adventure. For those whose talents lie elsewhere, vinyl wall art is a great option for semi-permanent decorations.

A large cardboard box makes the perfect submarine for kids, but you'll have to alter it a little bit. Paint it a bright yellow color, and cut portholes in the sides so that your children can look out. You can also add designs to the outside and paint controls and pressure gauges inside.

Enjoy Submarine Day From Safeguard Self Storage 

Transforming your children's room into an underwater playground might mean getting rid of some things. Of course you don't want to throw everything out, so use long term storage to your advantage. Long term storage comes in handy when you lack space at home and want to hold on to things for the future. With a storage unit from Safeguard, your items will be safely out of the way until you need them again!

When most Chicagoans think of March, they think of one giant celebration: St. Patrick's Day. With all the festivities going on, it's easy to forget that Proposal Day also happens this month. If you missed your chance on Valentine's Day, toss tradition out the window, and propose to your significant other on St. Patrick's Day instead. If you're short on ideas, Safeguard Self Storage has a few tips for popping the question on this lucky day in Chicago.

5 Ways to Propose on St. Patrick's Day

1. A Romantic Walk Along the Chicago River

On March 12, the annual Dyeing of the Chicago River takes place. For five hours, the entire river will glow a beautiful emerald green color, giving you the perfect chance to pop the question with thousands of onlookers eagerly awaiting the answer.

2. A Clover Charm to Symbolize Good Fortune 

Nothing symbolizes luck quite like the four-leaf clover. Skip buying a four-leaf clover charm online. Instead, hit up the local parks, and search for one or two yourself. Making the charm by hand will have more meaning and provide you with a little extra luck when it's time to ask the big question.

3. A Scavenger Hunt in Lincoln Park

Create an adventure out of the occasion with a real-life scavenger hunt. You can write down all the clues and place them separately in plastic green eggs. Start the hunt with one clue, and have your significant other continue the search until the big reveal.

4. A Sweet Message Spelled Out on Guinness Beer Glasses 

Not everyone likes sappy, romantic-type stuff. For the person who enjoys a good beer and fun times, pop the question at the pub. Invite a few friends along for the occasion, and have a round of Guinness served in four special glasses that spell out the question: "Will You Marry Me?"

5. A Moment Alone After the Parade

Quite a few parades take place during March, but the main parade happens from noon until 8 p.m. on the 17th. After some dancing, drinking and celebration, sneak off for a romantic moment, and pop the question under the stars.

Safeguard Self Storage Wishes You Luck on St. Patrick's Day

After your significant other says "yes," you'll need to make plans for the future. When it's time to move in together and take the next step, we have storage bins available in many different sizes to clear up space back at home. Whether you need a large storage unit or a couple small storage lockers, our exceptional team of self storage experts make moving in together easier by ensuring you get the perfect storage unit. A storage space equipped with computer controlled access, individually door alarm, digital video recording, drive in loading area and our vast selection of packing and storage supplies will protect your belongings until you get settled in.

Hit the water with sailors from all over the world during Bacardi Miami Sailing Week. This outdoor event takes place on Biscayne Bay in sunny Miami, FL from March 6th to March 12th and kicks off the season for many boaters. Whether you're ready to race or showing up for the excellent views, Safeguard Self Storage has tips for getting your boat out of storage and prepping it for this week-long celebration.  

A Preseason Checklist before Hitting the Water 

1. It's all about general maintenance.  

When you first take your boat out of storage, it's important to perform a general cleaning and dusting of everything. Clean the hull and the teak, wash the windows and hatches, check the wiper blades and spray down the canvas. You might also want to give your boat a nice coat of wax.

2. Take care of the hull.

Look for any scratches or abrasions on the hull, and repair them as necessary. Covering your boat properly during storage will prevent minor damage from happening in the future. You should also inspect the trim tabs and perform a complete check of the rudder and fittings, rub rails, zincs, and the shaft.  

3. Check the upper and lower decks.

Check and test the seacocks below deck, and inspect the stanchion, lifelines and chain plates above deck. It's also a good idea to lubricate the blocks and pad eyes as well as clear any debris from the limber holes.  

4. Inspect the electrical system.  

Give your boat's electrical system and components a once-over. Inspect the battery's water level, clean any corrosion off the terminals, test all the gauges and check every lighting fixture on your boat. You should also inspect the antennas and check the electronics for maximum operation.

5. Do a complete check of everything.

Look everything over on your boat from the head system to the sails. Flush the water tank, replace the spark plugs and inspect the fuel lines for any leaks. It's also wise to inspect your boat trailer and prep it for the season, such as lubricating the wheel bearings, cleaning the winch and checking the safety chains.

Enjoy Sailing in Miami, FL This March

If you need a place to store your items while you're in town, Safeguard Self Storage has you covered. Whether you're storing your boat or wanting extra space until you get situated, we have storage units available with as much room as you need, and our team of storage experts will make sure you get the storage space that's right for you. Find a unit in and around Miami, now!

Some people complain about not having enough days in the week to do what they want. Here's some good news for you all: It's a leap year, which gives you exactly one more day in February to get out and explore your Chicago surroundings, or even stay in and catch up on all of your chores or activities. There are so many ways we can take advantage of this day in Chicago, such as heading out to the orchid show at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Whatever you like to do, it’s a great feeling knowing you have one more day this year to make the most of it! Safeguard Self Storage is sharing a few ideas to get you started.

5 Things to Do on Leap Day

1. Attend the Pedway Brunch Tour.

It might still be winter in Chicago, but the Pedway has heat and plenty of stories waiting for you. The tour starts with breakfast at the Hyatt Regency, followed by a walking tour and brunch at the American Craft Kitchen. If you're worried about calories, you'll burn them off on your walks along the Pedway.

2. Check out the orchid exhibition.

The orchid show takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features more than 10,000 orchids. Bring a camera for some fantastic shots, and chill out indoors where it's warm and filled with fragrant blooms. 

3. Get started on spring-cleaning.

Why wait until March or April when you can knock out your spring-cleaning chores on the last day in February. If you're running out of household storage space, now's the perfect time to gather up unused items and donate them to charity. You can even use self storage as a way to make space in an old bedroom and convert it into an office or a study.

4. Veg out for the day.

Go ahead and chill out for the day; you deserve it after all the work you do. Take this extra day to binge-watch shows on Netflix or to lounge on the couch. You can also do both of those things and knock out two birds with one stone.

5. Visit the Shedd Aquarium.

Chicago, IL is packed full of history and science museums, including nature centers like the Shedd Aquarium. Head over to this warm, indoor public aquarium for an afternoon. It has 32,000 different animals on display and various exhibitions to enjoy on your extra day.

Make the Most of Your Leap Day Opportunities

Whether you're looking to visit a nearby attraction or stay in and tackle your lack of household storage, leap day gives you the time to make it all happen. If you decide to spring-clean, use Safeguard Self Storage to store your belongings and make a fresh start for the rest of the year!

If you live in Marrero, LA, you’re already familiar with two things: the beautiful scenery and the great fishing. Some of the best fishing spots in the country sit within this area, such as Grand Isle and Lafitte, two places with abundant waterways and plenty of fish. Despite this, you may not yet have become that master fisher you so wish you were. Safeguard can help with this! If you have extra storage space in your tackle box, you'll need to fill it to the top before you set out on your adventure to southern Louisiana. 

Don't Forget the Essentials 

When it comes to your tackle box, you'll want to stock it with all the necessities. You should also have a tackle box that has numerous storage compartments for holding all of your tools, extra line and gear. If you fish using minnows, a small tackle box should do fine as long as it has enough storage space for:

• Bobbers
• Hooks
• Sinkers
• Fishing line

If you want to have everything on hand, from multi-tools to jigging spoons, a larger tackle box with at least 24 compartments should do. Look for a tackle box that also has an extra storage compartment for carrying bulky items like reels and stringers.

Tips for Reeling in the Prize

Crappie, redfish and speckled trout are your prized targets this time of year. However, you can't just go in hoping to cast out at the right spots. You'll need a few tips to keep in mind once you head out on the water.

• Crappie: If you're fishing without a bobber, pay close attention to the line. Crappie hit the bait very lightly, so you might not even know you have one on the hook. You should also fish along the visible shoreline to find their beds. When setting the hook, gently flick your wrist; otherwise, the hook may tear free from its mouth.
• Redfish: Follow the tide when looking for these fish. It's best to stay within the shallow water, but move very slowly to keep them from swimming away. You might also have better luck using spoon flies as they attract the fish without much effort.
• Speckled Trout: Pay attention to the gulls overhead and on the water. They usually fly or sit right above the fish. Move within casting range of the birds, and throw your line in – you may get lucky on the first cast.

A Fishing Trip in Marrero, LA 

Now that you know what you’re doing, odds are you’re going to need even more room for gear. With Safeguard storage units, you have a dedicated spot to keep everything before and after each fishing trip. Safeguard storage units in Marrero, LA come with air-conditioning and heating, computer controlled access and 24-hour video recording, designed to keep your gear safe no matter the weather or the time of day.  And with drive-up units available, you can even store your boat! 

What the Bronx lacks in space, it makes up for in lots of personality. That’s why, despite the tiny living conditions, people keep flocking from all over the country – and even the world. Don’t let your little living space take over your life; get it back with smart household storage. In fact, there are many different areas in your apartment that you could dedicate to storing more things. You only have to know where to look. 

1. Hang a rack on the doors.

Once you start thinking of your door as just another part of the wall, you'll see the opportunity for more household storage space. You can purchase inexpensive racks to hang from the top of the doors. Hang one on the inside of your closet door for holding shoes and one in the bathroom for storing your amenities. Use racks here and there to store all those little things that get in the way.

But don’t stop at racks. Shelves come in all shapes and sizes and they can go from a few feet above the floor all the way to the ceiling. The only thing limiting you is your creativity!

2. Get a cubbyhole bed.

Replace your bed with something more functional. A cubbyhole bed has small storage compartments underneath for storing everything from extra blankets to shoes and bedroom accessories.

For those who can’t just up and replace their entire bed, think outside the bed box. Dresser drawers from a no-longer-used dresser can be quickly painted and touched up with floor gliders to offer you simple storage space under the bed. 

3. Invest in functional furniture. 

Don't just set your feet on a plain ottoman. Get rest and functionality in one with a storage ottoman. It looks like a traditional footrest but has a secret lid for storing away remotes, magazines and other items. There are even some storage ottomans with built-in storage compartments for extra organization. 

More than that, you can look into furniture add-ons, such as an arm tables, over-the-arm storage bags and caddies.

4. Make more counter space.

If you're short on counter space, extend your prep area with a cutting board that perches above the stove burners. Mount a paper towel holder on the inside of a cabinet door to gain even more space, and use a small kitchen cart for holding those extra items and keeping them out of the way until you need them.

Don’t forget about your walls and even your ceiling in the kitchen. Hanging pots and pans and even a spice rack is a good way to get the stuff out of the cabinets and off the counters, but still in easy reach.

5. Downsize your living area. 

You don't really need a large couch in a small apartment. If you can't part ways with the family sofa, consider moving it to a storage rental in the meantime. You'll have more space to bring in something smaller and more reasonable for your living area.

The same goes for the rest of your furniture. All your bulky furniture ends up taking entire feet of usable space. Just like with your couch, though, you can keep it in the family for years to come with a storage rental.

Creating Space Out of Thin Air

Need help creating more space in your apartment? Use a Safeguard storage rental nearby your Bronx apartment to clear out the clutter and make more room. Whether you need extra closet space or to store furniture until you move, you can keep your belongings safe and secure in a personal storage unit at Safeguard Self Storage.

Those who avoid going out into the cold or resolved to spend less money this year find new reason to get out to try fine cuisine throughout Brooklyn, NY. That’s thanks to New York Restaurant Week, the semiannual event that takes place January 18 to February 5. It features numerous restaurants offering fine cuisine at an affordable price. But it’s not just customers and restaurants that benefit. Safeguard storage units is sharing how business owners in Brooklyn, NY, can capitalize on this exciting event. 

Create Your Own Business Buzz During Restaurant Week 

While some business owners sit back and watch people walking by their storefront and heading to the nearest restaurant, you can view them all as potential customers. By targeting restaurant goers during this week, you'll not only increase your customer base but spread your brand to different areas beyond Brooklyn NY. 

1. Announce a major sale.

Nothing grabs consumer interest quite like a sale. However, you don't have to spend a lot of money on TV ads. You only need to create some fliers to hand out and place by your store. Prep them ahead of time and keep them in business storage till it’s time to hand them out. With all the additional eyes that will read your advertisement, it’s money well spent!

2. Team up with a participating restaurant.

You can always team up with a participating restaurant to bring in more customers for both businesses. For example, your business could offer a percentage off a meal if a customer spends a certain amount at your store. The restaurant could also offer a coupon to your store if the customer buys a particular meal at a set price. By working together, you increase sales at both establishments.

3. Offer freebies for those walking by.

People love getting free stuff whether it's a new key chain or a straw cup with a cool printed logo – and this is especially the case for tourists in the area. Look in your storage units for items that could be given away during Restaurant Week. You may have some older items that are simply taking up space and could be used as an incentive to shop at your store. 

Restaurant Week Isn't Just for Restaurants

You don't have to own a restaurant to reap the rewards of Restaurant Week. Simply create posters and fliers ahead of time, and store them away until you need them. With Safeguard Self Storage, you can store your sales ads and products in convenient storage units until later use. We have business storage available with as much space as you need to keep all of your items ready to go. 

If you're undecided about your New Year's resolution, make it one that every household needs. Resolve to start out the year by de-cluttering and organizing your Metairie, LA, home with the help of Safeguard Self Storage. You'll find it easier to stick with your resolution if you don't overwhelm yourself. Do a few small organizing tasks every day, and reward yourself for your accomplishments at regular intervals. Here are a few great tips for getting your home to a more organized, clutter-free state.

De-cluttering Tips for a More Organized New Year

• If you already have items in a mini storage unit, take a quick inventory to determine how much available room is left; you can keep this in mind while you sort through items in your home.
• Banish closet clutter by determining which clothes you actually wear. You can do this by hanging all your clothes hangers in the reverse direction. Once you wear an item, hang it back up facing the right way. At the end of six months, you can easily see which clothes are never worn. Donate them, or store them outside your home.
• As you're organizing items in each room of your home, place them in one of four designated boxes. The first box is for garbage; the second is for items you wish to give away. Your third box is for items you intend to put in storage. Finally, your fourth box is for items you wish to keep in the room.
• Include everyone in the household. Try to encourage family members to support your efforts to live a more organized life. Turn room-by-room projects into fun events. Order pizza and play your kids' favorite music. You’d be surprised how willing kids are to help when you add a little bit of an incentive and some fun.
• For every new item you bring into your home, remove one; this will help you keep your resolution and maintain the uncluttered state you've achieved.

Mini Storage in Metairie, LA, Makes De-cluttering Easy

Some people avoid reorganizing because they can't imagine discarding anything that they own, but having an organized home doesn't necessarily mean that you have to get rid of your prized possessions. Renting a self-storage unit is a great way to keep treasures that are currently taking up too much room in your house. If you just can't part with your grandmother's wedding gown or your childhood collection of stuffed toys, place these beloved items in storage. You'll find that Metairie, LA, has plenty of affordable options to help you keep your New Year's resolution.

January is National Hobby Month. Now is a great time to turn your favorite hobby into extra income. Miami, FL, has plenty of potential customers. You just need passion, a few business pointers and a little help from a business storage facility. Here are a few tips to help you turn your favorite hobby into profit.

Tips for Turning a Hobby Into a Business

• Do something you love. Your enthusiasm will get you through the less-than-perfect moments that are an inevitable part of any business endeavor.
• Develop a good business plan. Starting out with no direction won't get you very far. Educate yourself about small business practices, and talk to other entrepreneurs for encouragement and advice.
• Build a presence on the web. You can develop a private website, latch onto social media, or carve out your niche at eBay, Etsy or other popular sites.
• Consider your present resources, and don't go overboard. Starting small doesn't mean you'll stay small. Invest carefully, and be sure that you have a stable backup plan.

Top Money-Making Hobbies

Not every hobby brings in tons of cash. If you're looking for one with a lot of money-making potential, consider one of the following.

• Pet-sitting and dog-walking require virtually no overhead, and if you love animals, you'll be getting paid to have fun. Before you get started, do your research. Certain safety measures and protocols apply.
• Home-baked treats like cookies, cakes and pies bring in thousands of dollars at charity bake sales every year. If you're a talented baker, take your love of flour and sugar to the next level. Sell your goodies at local flea markets, craft fairs and farmer's markets. If your popularity grows, you may even convince a local grocery store to carry your products.
• Become a writer. If you love to write, brush up on your grammar skills, and make money from the privacy of your computer. Various websites offer opportunities for freelance writers. You can also offer your services to local newspaper publishers and other businesses that might need promotional materials, newsletters or brochures.
• Monetize your crafting skills. From jewelry and scrapbooks to clothing and toys, people love handmade items. Rent a booth at your local flea market or sell online.

Find Great Business Storage in Miami, FL

When your hobby-turned-business starts to blossom, you'll need extra space to store products and promotional materials. You probably don't want your hobby to take over every room of your home, and keeping your wares in your garage or basement exposes them to insects, moisture and mold. Renting a Safeguard Self Storage unit is a more practical and professional solution. Check with your local Safeguard storage facilities, or use online resources to find the best rates in Miami, FL. If you have a great business plan and a little elbow grease to spare, your storage unit and your wallet will fill up quickly.  

Here at Safeguard, we love storing your cars. Whether you use your personal storage in Philadelphia as a temporary home for your vehicle, or you are interested in purchasing your dream car in the future, it’s important to know how to keep it in tip top shape and ready to show off. Check out some inspiration at The Philadelphia Auto Show being held from January 31, 2015 to February 8, 2015. Explore all 650,000 square feet of the display floor to find up-and-coming stars in the automotive industry as well as classic, luxury, green and exotic vehicles. 

Get Your Own Car Ready to Impress

If you have a gorgeous classic car or a formidable racing vehicle tucked away in private storage, it's the perfect time to bring it out to show the world. Whether you're registering your vehicle or just driving it to the venue, you can arrive at the auto show in style. Use the following tips to get your car ready to turn heads.

• Soup up your engine. Visit a shop that specializes in customizing cars, and have your engine enhanced by professionals. Once your car is ready to hold its own with the high-end dragsters, make the engine gleam with metal polish and a chamois. If you're not accustomed to driving vehicles with high-powered engines, get some pointers from a seasoned professional, and take a few practice drives. You'll want to be ready to roll with the big guys when it's time for the show.
• Have the car's exterior detailed and its frame polished. Unless you're trying to preserve the look of a classic car, consider enhancing the body. If you desire, replace your headlights, muffler or other body elements with newer, sleeker designs. Don't overlook small details; repair small glass and mirror defects.
• Update your interior. Customize your steering wheel, install television monitors, or add mp3 docking stations and gaming consoles. Replace old seats and upholstery.
• Put on your coolest sunglasses and hit the road. With your car's new look and feel, you're ready to impress both judges and peers.

When It's Time to Go Back Into Private Storage

The fun can't last forever. Before returning your vehicle to your personal storage unit in Philadelphia, PA, be sure to prepare it for an extended stay. Clean it thoroughly, change the oil, and top off the gas tank. If you're not able to start the car periodically, install a trickle charger to maintain battery power. Remove the car's wheels, and store it on jack stands to protect the tires. To learn more about secure, affordable vehicle storage, contact your local Safeguard Self Storage facilities for availability and pricing details.