It is hurricane season and even without a direct storm hit, areas of Hampton Roads are threatened by rising water this time of year. According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, VA, up to seven inches of rain fell on the Peninsula the weekend prior to Hurricane Isaac hitting the gulf coast. Some flood victims were forced to evacuate and raced to find local storage units after the storm in an attempt to protect their possessions while restoration began.
While we can’t always predict when we need local storage, hurricane season is the time to be prepared. Self storage units can be used to store items that are in the areas of your home that have a high potential for flooding. If your street routinely floods, part of your hurricane preparation might be to find a drive-in garage storage unit to temporarily store your car or truck. Mini Price Storage can assist you with these storage needs.
In addition to finding storage, here are some great tips from FloodSmart.gov to help keep you and your belongings safe:
1. Safeguard your possessions.
- Create a personal flood file containing information about all your possessions and keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box or waterproof container. This file should have:
- A copy of your insurance policies with your agents contact information.
- A household inventory: For insurance purposes, be sure to keep a written and visual (i.e., videotaped or photographed) record of all major household items and valuables, even those stored in basements, attics or garages. Create files that include serial numbers and store receipts for major appliances and electronics. Have jewelry and artwork appraised. These documents are critically important when filing insurance claims. For more information visitwww.knowyourstuff.org.
- Copies of all other critical documents, including finance records or receipts of major purchases.
2. Prepare your house.
- First make sure your sump pump is working and then install a battery-operated backup, in case of a power failure. Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
- Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Anchor any fuel tanks.
- Raise your electrical components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers, and wiring) at least 12 inches above your home’s projected flood elevation.
- Place the furnace, water heater, washer, and dryer on cement blocks at least 12 inches above the projected flood elevation.
- Move furniture, valuables, and important documents to a safe place.
3. Develop a family emergency plan.
- Create a safety kit with drinking water, canned food, first aid, blankets, a radio, and a flashlight.
- Post emergency telephone numbers by the phone and teach your children how to dial 911.
- Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family. Know safe routes from home, work, and school that are on higher ground.
- Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to be your emergency family contact.
- Have a plan to protect your pets.
It may be more difficult to find storage after the storm depending on current vacancies at a storage facility. Preparation before the storm will ensure you have local storage when you need it. Here is our number to check availability 1.866.531.2675. We are here to help!