The safety of our loved ones is everything that we can seem to think about when there is a danger of a natural disaster. Regardless, as the owner of single-family rental homes, you need to make sure you consider the safety of your resident’s as high priority. Helping them to prepare for a natural disaster is an important aspect of managing your Trophy Club rental properties. Sharing a few simple preparedness tips can guarantee your rental residents are able to weather the worst that mother nature may bring.
In a disaster, information is one of your most treasured 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. Amid 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 aid you in seeking help if the circumstance calls for it. You should urge your residents to install the app as part of their emergency preparedness plan.
Paying close attention to local news broadcasts and taking evacuation advice seriously is another vital aspect of keeping safe in a natural disaster. Decisions about whether to remain where they are or leave to find shelter someplace else must often be made quickly, so crafting a plan ahead before you need one is essential. In the event that an evacuation order comprises one or more of your rental homes, encourage your residents to seek shelter immediately or to make arrangements to stay with friends, family, or a hotel outside of the emergency area. They should also be reminded to bring with them important personal items with them, including valuables, jewelry, passports, and important 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 taught to gather disaster supplies and to make sure a basic emergency kit is with them always. Having at least three days of supplies on hand is perfect, 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 keep the doors closed as much as possible. Residents should be given clear instructions in each of these tasks, as well as assisted 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 Meridian. In an emergency situation, we will assist 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 817-678-8787 for more information.
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