Whenever there is a threat of a natural disaster, we usually think about the safety of our loved ones. However, being the owner of single-family rental homes, you should bear in mind that you have residents to protect and make them part of your top priority. Making sure that your residents know how to prepare for a natural disaster is a critical part of running your Perrysburg rental properties. Sharing a few simple preparedness tips can help rental residents weather the worst that mother nature may bring.
In a disaster, information is one of your most valuable resources. The American Red Cross offers a free emergency app for both the iPhone and Android phones that will place critical information right at your fingertips. During a natural disaster, the app will let you monitor conditions in your area and access important information you may need in an emergency. The app also lets you notify others that you are safe and can even help you find help if needed. You should encourage your residents to get the app as part of their emergency preparedness plan.
Paying close regard to local news broadcasts and taking evacuation advice sincerely is one more crucial aspect of keeping safe in a natural disaster. Arrangements about whether to stay or leave must often be made quickly, so having a plan in place before you need one is essential. If an evacuation order includes one or more of your rental homes, encourage your residents to seek shelter immediately or to decide to remain with friends, family, or a hotel outside of the emergency area. They should also be instructed to take critical personal items with them, including valuables, jewelry, passports, and relevant documents, including their rental insurance policy information as they will need to find whether they have coverage for relocation.
If evacuation isn’t possible or required, residents should be urged to gather disaster supplies and to have a basic emergency kit handy. Having at least three days of supplies on hand is ideal, including water, food, batteries, gasoline, pet food, and other necessities, such as diapers and medications.
Finally, the property itself should be prepared to weather the storm by gathering and storing outdoor furniture, bicycles, and other items securely. Windows and doors should be secured, and if needed, heavy shutters installed. In the event of a power outage, the food in the refrigerator and freezer will be one of the first casualties, so turn both to the coldest settings and then double check if the doors are shut tight and keep them shut as much as possible. Residents must be given clear instructions in each of these tasks, as well as aided with preparations as needed.
Helping residents prepare for a natural disaster is just one of the services offered by the experts at Real Property Management Clarity Team. In an emergency situation, we will help with all disaster preparations, encourage your residents to make evacuation decisions early, and provide them with the information they need to stay safe. Would you like to learn more? Please contact us online or by phone at 567-200-2320 for more information.
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