Emergency Evacuation Preparedness for Storage Renters

Emergencies, whether caused by natural disasters or unforeseen circumstances, can strike at any time, requiring swift action and strategic planning. The Tymac Group always has an emergency plan prepared that ensures the safety of stored items. However, for storage renters, the safety of their belongings during an emergency evacuation is a top concern. Let’s explore the considerations and best practices for preparing stored items for evacuation.

Should the storage renter remove their items of value from the unit during an emergency evacuation?

While it might be tempting to remove all valuable items from the storage unit immediately, the decision should be based on the nature of the emergency and the type of belongings stored. For short-term evacuations or if the emergency doesn’t pose an imminent threat to the storage facility, leaving items in the unit may be a reasonable choice.

However, for extended evacuations or situations where the storage facility could be directly affected (e.g., flood-prone areas), it is advisable to remove items of significant value, sentimental importance, or irreplaceable nature. Valuables such as important documents, family heirlooms, and expensive electronic equipment may be better off in the renter’s possession during an evacuation. The safety of leaving belongings in storage during an emergency evacuation depends on various factors. If the storage facility is located in an area prone to natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, or wildfires, it may be riskier to leave items behind. Storage renters should be aware of the local risks and understand the emergency evacuation plans of both the storage facility and the surrounding area. 

In some cases, storage facilities are equipped with security measures, such as climate control, fire suppression systems, and robust security protocols, which can offer a level of protection for stored items during short-term evacuations. Renters should communicate with the storage facility management to understand the facility’s emergency procedures and how they address the safety of belongings during evacuations. Preparing belongings for emergency evacuation is paramount. The Tymac group has protocols and safety rules in place to ensure that items stored are immune from such situations however, it is not always possible to predict the possible threats that at times nature or other circumstances impose. Here are a few aspects to take into consideration when preparing for such cases:

Create an Inventory

Maintain a detailed inventory of items stored, including descriptions and photographs. This will aid in insurance claims and facilitate the tracking of belongings during an evacuation.

Secure Important Documents

Keep essential documents like passports, insurance policies, and legal paperwork in a secure, easily accessible place within the storage unit or remove them during evacuations.

Communication with the Storage Facility

Stay informed about the emergency protocols of the storage facility. Know the contact information for facility management and understand their procedures for securing the storage units during evacuations.

Insurance Coverage

Ensure that your belongings are adequately insured, review your insurance coverage for stored items, and update it if necessary. This can provide financial protection in case of any unforeseen events.

The decision to remove items during an emergency evacuation depends on the circumstances and the level of risk posed to the storage facility. The Tymac Group advises that communication with the storage facility, proper documentation, and an understanding of local risks are crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring the safety of stored belongings during emergencies.
If you have items to store and have not decided on where to store them safely, review The Tymac Group FAQs.