National Portable Storage Association Urges Hurricane Preparedness
Released on = May 22, 2007, 2:05 am
Press Release Author = Self Storage Promotions
Industry = Consumer Services
Press Release Summary = With predictions of an active storm season, the NPSA is warning businesses to reserve portable storage units ahead of time to avoid shortages that have occurred in the past.
Press Release Body = KANSAS CITY, MO. (May 21, 2007) - Storm season is upon us and rebuilding residents along the Gulf Coast and the Southeastern United States are concerned about the recently released 2007 Hurricane Forecast. A recent television broadcast on CBS 4 in South Florida reported that some residents still have their valuables stored in portable storage units a year and a half after Hurricane Wilma stormed through the area.
The 2007 Hurricane Forecast is calling for an active season, with three major hurricanes and a strong chance that at least one of them will make landfall, according to weather experts. Colorado State University predicts 17 named storms, including nine hurricanes. Indeed, the U.S. got a sneak preview in early May when Subtropical Storm Andrea meandered off the southeastern coast.
"Unfortunately, experts are predicting we'll see some hurricane damage this year," said John Finnessy, CMP, Executive Director of the National Portable Storage Association, or NPSA, a nonprofit membership association dedicated to the advancement of the portable storage industry. "The NPSA recommends businesses put a preparation plan in place now, which for some companies includes reserving portable storage units."
Here are some hurricane preparedness tips from the American Red Cross:
Make a plan for safe shelter - It is important to know the safest locations to take cover from a storm at home, work and school. Locate a basement, center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor where everyone should gather. The area should be windowless and free of objects that can become projectiles during high winds. If you are in a high-rise building there may not be time to reach a lower floor before the storm hits. Head to the center of the building.
Build an Emergency Preparedness Kit - Kits should contain a first aid kit and essential medications; three-day supply of canned or non-perishable food and manual can opener; at least three gallons of water per person; flashlights and a battery-powered radio with extra batteries; and other emergency items for the whole family, including pets. Prepare a personal size kit to keep at work and in the car.
Stay Informed of Warnings - Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information. Check with your local emergency management office to see if email and cell phone weather alerts are available in your area. A tornado WATCH means there is the possibility of tornado activity in your area. When a tornado WARNING is issued, immediately head to your planned safe shelter. If you are outside, hurry to a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area. If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety.
"Portable storage containers have proven to be an important asset in the wake of storms," said NPSA Operations Manager Joel Rathbone. "But don't wait until a storm hits to reserve a unit because you may not be able to locate one in the post-storm frenzy. Make portable storage a part of your preparedness plan. You'll be glad you did."
For more information, visit www.npsa-us.org.
The National Portable Storage Association The National Portable Storage Association is dedicated to the advancement of the portable storage industry. We at the NPSA are here to serve those in the portable storage industry who rent, sell or lease containers, trailers and mobile offices. The NPSA assists members with industry, regulatory and workforce issues; plus, offers members networking, marketing and legislative support at national, state and local levels.
PR Contact: Jennifer LeClaire Self Storage Promotions 954.454.0072 jennifer@selfstoragepromotions.com www.selfstoragepromotions.com
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