The most usual and perhaps expected reaction whenever a natural disaster looms is to think about the welfare of our loved ones. However, as the owner of single-family rental homes, you must put the safety of your residents on top of your priority list. Assisting your residents to prepare for a natural disaster is an integral aspect of operating your Bannock County rental properties. Distributing a few simple preparedness tips among your residents can go a long way in helping them weather the worst that mother nature may bring.
In a disaster, information is one of your most useful 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 enable you to monitor conditions in your area and gather relevant information you may find useful in an emergency. The app also lets you notify others that you are safe and can even help you find help if the situation calls for it. You should urge your residents to install the app as part of their emergency preparedness plan.
Keeping close tabs to local news broadcasts and taking evacuation advice seriously is one more crucial factor in staying safe in a natural disaster. Decisions about whether to stay or leave must often be made as soon as possible, so devising a plan in place even before you need one is essential. In the event that an evacuation order includes one or more of your rental homes, let your residents know that they ought to seek shelter immediately or to make plans to stay with friends, family, or a hotel outside of the emergency area. They should also be given directions 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 encouraged to gather disaster supplies and to have a basic emergency kit nearby. Having at least three days of supplies on hand is perfect, make sure they include 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 tightly shut as much as possible. Residents should be provided with 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 Pocatello. 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 208-234-1000 for more information.
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