Hurricane Preparedness and Storage Planning

Understanding Puerto Rico's Hurricane Season

Hurricane season in Puerto Rico runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak activity typically occurring between August and October. After Hurricane Maria in 2017, preparedness has become a critical priority for all residents.

Storage units can be a vital part of your hurricane preparedness plan - protecting valuable items, creating space for hurricane supplies at home, and providing a safe location for business inventory.

Before Hurricane Season

Create Your Hurricane Storage Plan

Assess what needs protection: Important documents, family heirlooms, business records, seasonal inventory, and items you can't afford to lose.

Choose the right storage solution:

• Indoor units offer maximum protection from wind and water
• Upper-floor units minimize flood risk
• Climate-controlled units prevent moisture damage

Our facility features concrete construction, elevated units, and backup power systems designed specifically for Puerto Rico's climate challenges.

What to Store Before a Storm

Documents and Irreplaceables

• Birth certificates, passports, property deeds
• Insurance policies and financial records
• Family photos and heirlooms
• External hard drives with backed-up data

Business Essentials

• Inventory that can be replaced but is expensive
• Important files and records
• Equipment that's not immediately needed
• Seasonal merchandise

Home Items

• Outdoor furniture and decorations
• Electronics you won't need during/after the storm
• Sentimental items that can't be replaced
• Seasonal clothing and items

Packing for Hurricane Protection

Waterproof Everything

Even the best storage facilities can experience some moisture during extreme weather. Take extra precautions:

1. Use plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes when possible
2. Double-bag important documents in sealed plastic bags
3. Elevate items off the floor using pallets or shelving
4. Seal boxes with waterproof tape
5. Use silica gel packets in boxes to absorb moisture

Organize for Quick Access

You may need to retrieve items quickly before or after a storm:

• Keep frequently needed items near the front
• Create a clear aisle down the middle
• Label all boxes clearly on multiple sides
• Maintain an inventory list outside the unit
• Take photos of your unit layout

During Hurricane Warnings

72-Hour Preparation Window

When a hurricane warning is issued:

72 hours before:

• Confirm your storage unit is secure
• Retrieve any items you'll need at home
• Add last-minute items that need protection
• Photograph your unit's contents for insurance

48 hours before:

• Final check of your unit
• Ensure lock is secure
• Clear nearby outdoor items that could become projectiles

24 hours before:

• Focus on home preparation
• Don't visit storage facilities once evacuation orders are issued

What NOT to Store

For safety and insurance purposes, never store:

• Perishable food items
• Flammable materials (gasoline, propane, paint)
• Weapons or ammunition
• Hazardous chemicals
• Living things (plants, pets)

After the Hurricane

Safe Return Procedures

Wait for official all-clear before visiting your storage unit. Even if the hurricane has passed, dangers like downed power lines and flooding may still exist.

When you return:

1. Inspect the exterior of the facility first
2. Look for visible damage before entering your unit
3. Take photos of any damage for insurance purposes
4. Check for water damage or moisture
5. Document everything before moving items

Dealing with Water Damage

If your unit experienced flooding:

• Don't panic - many items can be salvaged
• Separate wet and dry items immediately
• Air out the unit if safe to do so
• Contact your insurance company right away
• Document all damage with photos and videos
• Salvage quickly - mold can start within 24-48 hours

Insurance Considerations

What's Covered

Our facility has comprehensive insurance, but it doesn't automatically cover your belongings. We strongly recommend:

• Homeowner's or renter's insurance often extends to storage units
• Specialized storage insurance for valuable items
• Business insurance if storing commercial inventory
• Document everything with photos and inventory lists

Making a Claim

Keep these records for insurance purposes:

• Inventory list with estimated values
• Photos of items before storage
• Receipts for valuable items
• Photos of any damage
• Communication with storage facility

Our Hurricane Protection Features

At Flex Storage Park, we've invested in hurricane-resistant infrastructure:

• ✓ Reinforced concrete construction
• ✓ Elevated units to minimize flood risk
• ✓ Backup generator systems
• ✓ 24/7 security monitoring
• ✓ Rapid response team for post-storm assessment
• ✓ Interior units with extra protection

Puerto Rico-Specific Considerations

Extended Power Outages

After major hurricanes, power outages can last weeks or months. If you're storing:

• Freezers/refrigerators: Don't use them during hurricane season
• Electronics: Climate control helps prevent moisture damage during outages
• Medications: Never store temperature-sensitive medications

Supply Chain Delays

Replacement items may take months to arrive in Puerto Rico after a major storm. Protect:

• Hard-to-replace tools and equipment
• Items that would be expensive to re-ship
• Business inventory you'll need for recovery

Emergency Supply Storage

Some customers use storage units to keep emergency supplies organized and protected:

• Non-perishable food (rotate regularly)
• Water purification systems
• Generators and fuel stabilizer (follow safety rules)
• Tools and repair equipment
• First aid supplies
• Battery-powered devices

Important: Check with our team about proper storage of generators, fuel, and emergency equipment.

Hurricane Season Checklist

Before June 1:

• Review your storage plan
• Update your inventory list
• Check insurance coverage
• Move vulnerable items to climate-controlled storage
• Organize unit for quick access
• Take current photos of all stored items

During Hurricane Season:

• Monitor weather forecasts
• Keep facility contact information handy
• Know your unit number and access code
• Maintain emergency contact list
• Stay informed of facility status

After a Hurricane:

• Wait for official all-clear
• Contact facility for status update
• Document any damage
• File insurance claims promptly
• Begin recovery process

Need Climate-Controlled Protection?

Our climate-controlled units provide the ultimate protection for your most valuable items during hurricane season and year-round.

Questions About Hurricane Preparedness?

Our team understands Puerto Rico's unique challenges. Contact us to discuss your hurricane storage plan and ensure your belongings are protected.

Related Resources

• Climate-Controlled Storage - Year-round protection
• Packing Tips - Waterproof packing techniques
• Storage 101 - Basics of using a storage unit