How To Prepare Your Home For Protecting Keepsakes During Storm Surges

Published on: 30 December 2024 Last Updated on: 31 December 2024

When you live in a storm surge-prone area like New Orleans, the safety of your home and cherished belongings is always a concern.

The city’s proximity to water makes it particularly vulnerable to extreme weather, including hurricanes and the accompanying storm surges. However, protecting keepsakes during storm surges is a major issue.

In this article, you will learn why how to protect your keepsakes during storm surges. Here, you will get five useful tips that are easy to follow.

However, before that, you will learn a few details about storm surges and what to do in such situations. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.

Staying Prepared Before Storm Surges

Generally, storm surges affect your building’s foundations. This happens due to high water piling because of tropical cyclones, which results in constant agitation in the building.

With time, it can result in complete demolition of homes and commercial buildings. Moreover, if the storm is bad enough, you need to evacuate and move inland for safety.

In such cases, you have to plan ahead for such possibilities. However, to save your valuables, you can keep large rubber storage containers. In those containers, you have to place your photos and mementos. This will help you take them while you evacuate the place.

Apart from that, you must have extra plastic storage containers to gather jewelry, mementos, and other photos. Also, try to place those containers in the attic if you get the news of an upcoming flood.

Additionally, you can also keep your necessary documents in a fire-proof safe. Moreover, check them to ensure that they are water-proof as well. This will prevent water from entering the safe it the building submerges in a flood.

On the other hand, you must also shut off your electricity at the circuit brakes. This will help your appliances from short circuits.

5 Tips For Protecting Keepsakes During Storm Surges

While securing your property is essential, safeguarding your irreplaceable keepsakes—like family photos, heirlooms, and old home movies—requires proactive steps.

The following are some essential tips for protecting keepsakes during storm surges:

1. Identify Valuable Keepsakes

The first step in protecting keepsakes during storm surges is to identify which items hold the most sentimental or practical value. For instance, family photos, handwritten letters, heirlooms, home videos, and important documents often top the list.

Generally, in New Orleans, homes may face repeated flooding risks. Hence, creating an inventory of these items ensures you know what to prioritize.

Therefore, you must take time to review albums, VHS tapes, film reels, and other family treasures. Moreover, once you identify your most valuable keepsakes, it becomes easier to plan their protection.

2. Store Keepsakes In Waterproof Containers

Generally, storm surges bring a high risk of water damage. Hence, you must always store your keepsakes in waterproof containers. Use sealed plastic bins, waterproof bags, or specialized storage boxes for delicate items like photographs and letters.

However, if you need extra protection, consider fireproof and waterproof safes to shield irreplaceable items from both water and heat.

For instance, in a flood-prone city like New Orleans, it’s important to seal containers properly. Also, store them away from low-lying areas.

3. Elevate Keepsakes Above Flood-Prone Areas

Elevation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your keepsakes. In a city with a history of flooding, storing items in basements or on ground floors is risky. Instead, place keepsakes on higher shelves, upper floors, or in attics well above expected flood levels.

In fact, for long-term storage, elevated cabinets or specially designed storage units can provide peace of mind. Basically, they will prevent water damage during high-water events.

4. Digitize Important Items

One of the most effective ways to protect family memories is by digitizing them. For instance, you can scan photos and documents. Then, you must covert old VHS tapes or film reels. Thereby, you can create digital backups that can’t be harmed by water or storms.

I live in New Orleans, and using local digitization companies was a smart choice for me. Actually, these professionals understand the importance of preserving family memories in a city with a high risk of natural disasters.

Whether you need high-quality scanning for photos or video conversion services, these companies can help digitize your most treasured items while handling them with care.

In fact, once you digitize your files, you can store them securely in cloud storage. As a result, you can ensure they are accessible. Apart from that, you can protect them even if you lose the originals.

5. Create An Emergency Evacuation Plan

In the event of a major storm, you must have a clear evacuation plan. Moreover, you must include your most important keepsakes in your plan, both physical and digital.

Also, prepare a “go bag” with waterproof containers for physical items. Make sure to have a USB drive or external hard drive containing your new digital files.

Actually, if you prepare in advance, you can quickly grab what’s most important. Thereby, you can ensure your irreplaceable memories are safe. Additionally, cloud-stored backups of digitized items allow you to access them from anywhere. This helps even if you are displaced for an extended period.

Conclusion

If you follow these tips, protecting keepsakes during storm surges in New Orleans will not be a big problem. Basically, New Orleans has a unique geography and vulnerability to storm surges. Hence, protecting keepsakes is a critical part of disaster preparation.

Hence, start by identifying your valuable items. Then, store them securely in waterproof and elevated locations. After that, digitize them for long-term preservation. This way, by planning for emergencies, you can safeguard your cherished memories.

Don’t wait until a storm is approaching to take action. Start digitizing your family photos, videos, and documents today to ensure your memories are preserved and protected for generations to come. Preparing now means peace of mind later, no matter what the weather brings.

Do you have more suggestions for protecting keepsakes during storm surges? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.

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Ankita Tripathy

Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.

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How Can I Incorporate Gadgets Into My Interior Design?

There are many options that you can choose from if you are looking to decorate your room based on your preferences. You can choose more mundane products like posters, figurines, decals, and many more that are available on the market. With that said, you can now use gadgets for much the same thing thanks to the emphasis on gorgeous designs. Some electronic products are made with beauty and grace in mind. This is to complement your room's aesthetic, while upping the technology game. With gadgets becoming such a big part of everyday life, it’s only natural that they would evolve in function, as well. These days, you can count on smartphone makers to spend a lot of money on designing their products to perfect detail. There has been a huge emphasis on making smartphones and other electronics beautiful to look at, as well. This means that you can use gadgets to make any room seem more stylish without losing function. LED Frames The great thing about LED is that it has so many unexplored applications in terms of decorations for most people. In terms of decorations, you can use them to literally light up any photo or image you might have on display. This includes family pictures, paintings, sketches, and even printable. This will then help establish your personality in the things you display and what you want everyone else to notice. It’s also worth noting that these LED frames can come in any color and with any setting, like Christmas lights. They can blink, cycle, spell words, or form certain shapes that would add more substance to the item being framed. This would then go a long way toward catching even more attention and injecting some merriment into the room. These LED frames can be purchased from stores or ordered online as is, or you could have them customized, too. Stylish Screens Screens are often thought of as a means of watching videos, playing games, or working with various computer programs. This is not wrong, per se, but screens have also undergone quite an evolution over the years in terms of design. Many of them have become sleeker, more stylish, and, best of all, more eye-catching when displayed alongside other gadgets. This is the ultimate expression of the fusion of both function and fashion in a clear and tangible manner. Now, these screens can take on many forms, including computer monitors, flatscreen TVs, and commercial video display units. They can play different media files while they are not in use, such as screensavers, looping video files, and more. This is one of the most effective and most common ways that gadgets are used for decoration. Imagine a huge screen that spans a wall and features crackling flames and see if it doesn’t inspire you. Neon Lighting A lot of rooms have neon lighting and for good reason, since they are some of the most attention-grabbing implements. You will find them among commercial districts, blaring invitations to dine or take part in their services. In the case of decorations, you will appreciate the amount of interest that they can draw from others. The best part is that you can make them into literally anything you could imagine, from names to entire landscapes. If you are looking for some neat neon sign ideas to base your own decor on, there are plenty available. You can find them on the web via photo-sharing platforms and video streaming sites like YouTube or Instagram. Once you get inspiration for your own neon light decor, you can have them customized via specialized service providers. However, it would be best to make sure that you choose the right sizes relative to the space in your room. Fashionable Accessories And Gear Who would have thought that something as simple as a keyboard could be stylish, but they can be bought? You will find accessories and gear in the market that were made for the specific purpose of looking good. At the same time, they are also functional in that you can use them for their intended purpose. This goes for a mouse, speakers, controllers, cooling fans, and many more that you can find on the web. Then, there are the various other appliances, gear, and novelty items that you can order or even get customized. Fans, coolers, humidifiers, lamps, and so many others are available in stylish, ultramodern designs that will enhance your room’s sophisticated air. It would be advisable, however, to keep things minimalist as much as you can to maintain neatness. It’s important that you don’t put too much clutter in the room that can distract you from the main attractions. Thin, Minimalist Laptops And Tablets Laptops come in all shapes and sizes, with some models being as small as an iPad or as big as a suitcase. These are worth decorating your room with if you are aiming for a more modern style. Gadgets are now a part of everyday life, and tablets, laptops, computers, and smartphones are intrinsic to how society functions. If you are going to get them anyway, you might as well get the ones that add to your room’s elegance. Choosing this route would also complement a minimalist theme for your interior, where everything is simplistic and has neat tones. The idea is to make the room less cluttered and more organized but with a hint of grace and poise. More Digital Aesthetic To Add Let’s check out some more cool gadget options to spruce up your room! The sky is the limit, and gadgetry has gone to a whole new level in not just functionality but in style as well. Smart Mirrors Who knew mirrors could use some sprucing up? Smart mirrors are a great chance to infuse tech with class in your room. Visualize a classically posh mirror on your wall that can not only show how you look but give you details about the weather, time or even your plans for the day! Believe it or not, some of these get built with lights for those flawless selfies and make up routines. Literally form meeting function at its finest. Floating Speakers Yes, you read that right! Floating speakers are a fun and futuristic way to play your favorite music while adding a unique twist to your room decor. These speakers use magnetic levitation, making them hover in mid-air, and instantly drawing everyone’s attention. And they don’t just look good. Trust us when we say that these floating sound systems sound amazing too! Ambient Lighting Lighting that sets the vibe of the space you’re in is something that’s always been popular. LED lights have already proven their staying power, but ambient lighting with smart bulbs or light strips takes it to another level. You can change colors, brightness, and even patterns all from an app on your phone. Want a relaxing feel? Do it right from your bed. Want a party room? Go crazy! So much easier and better than changing out the colors of different colored light bulbs. Wireless Charging Wireless charging has been around for some time now, but not as easily accessible as it is today and not through matching technology centers with USB plugs built in without paying custom prices for everything. These stations are sleek gadgets that do double duty, adding style and convenience to your room. They come in all shapes and sizes, some even sleek pad or stands that fit right into your decor. Plus, you just put your phone or other device on it an bam! they start to charge. Another use for this if you work at a desk is they can serve as one of those really cool desk accessories and keep your area clean. Read Also: Your own space: decor ideas for your private place to relax How to Make your Home Look Beautiful in the Upcoming Holidays Here Are A few Of The Benefits Of The LED Strip Lights How To Increase The Value Of Your Home

How To Repair Home Appliances and Use Humidifiers

Appliances are built to be sturdy and durable. You buy one device, year after year, and they function well. However, without proper care, over time, you will begin to take tools for granted. The result is when your equipment breaks down, and you break down along with it. You do not know how to fix it, and you do not see the reason it stops working. This means you have no clue how to fix it too. This can lead to several problems in the household. From small fights to full-blown breakdowns. We have all experienced what goes on in the house when the boiler or the refrigerator breaks down without warning. Human beings have a tendency to forget. In other words, we feel that these mechanical devices will take care of themselves. We forget that just like any other machine, they too require regular maintenance and upkeep. In this article, we will look at how you can perform basic repairs on your household items. So what do you do? You can call in an expert to fix the problem, or try to fix it yourself, or get a neighbor that is super quick with electronics to fix the appliance for you. This guide is to give you all the advice you need to start fixing your home appliances. We are from Markham. However, appliance repair in Markham is not tricky and relatively simple. Most appliances use the house's electrical system. Small appliances require less electricity and electronics like an air fryer, and air conditioners will require more power. If you are cutting down electricity bills, you will need to cut down some of the appliances that require you to use more energy. Here are how to repair home appliances and use humidifiers: Repairing Home Appliances: Make sure that any gas or electric source is turned off when you want to test whether the appliance is working. If you need to disassemble the appliances parts, you need to call an expert to help you. This could be dangerous. Some appliances parts can be replaced fast, and the pieces are cheap so that you can grab them from a professional. If you cannot find the parts that you are looking for, try shopping online to substitute that part with a similar one. There have been thousands of cases reported every month, which deal with personal injuries at home. Most of the time, people are trying to fix something themselves without proper training or safety. You can get seriously hurt, even while fixing a common blender at home. It is important that you follow the manual and if things get difficult, you need to call in an expert from the service center. Which Are The Best Humidifier in Toronto: So how do we get the best humidifier in Toronto? How do we install it? Today we will be looking at the best humidifier installation in Toronto. Power humidifiers are a one-stop home solution. This equipment can maintain the moisture in the air by using water tanks to diffuse moisture into your living room. This will lessen the dryness in the living room and for people that do not want to have dry air in the house, using a humidifier is the best option for you. However, you don't have to fill in the water in the tank every day because these humidifiers are connected to a direct water supply. These power humidifiers are the best way to keep the house with cold air. They can help bring down the temperature and maintain a pleasant feeling within the household. They also help in the circulation of air, so that you do not feel stuffy or claustrophobic at times. There are three types of humidifiers: 1. Drum Humidifier: One of them is a drum humidifier. It is cheaper than other types of a humidifier, but you need to check it frequently so that it doesn't get moldy. 2. Steam Humidifier: The second type is the steam humidifier. It has a lot of steam in it, keeping the air around it moist, and it doesn't get moldy fast. 3. Flow-Through Humidifier: The third type is called a flow-through humidifier, and it doesn't require high maintenance. It can be bought anywhere, and it doesn't grow mold either. However, you will need to keep changing the filter pad. Call us to get a quote today to fix a humidifier at your home. Different types of humidifiers have different investment costs. Their outputs are also different. It is important that you select the ones, which are most suited to your needs and requirements. Why a Humidifier is essential for a Healthy Household? Most of the time, airborne bacteria are the main reasons why our loved ones and we fall sick. If you are not using a humidifier, you are inviting all these bacterial germs, viruses and infections into your household. This is why getting a humidifier from a trained professional is necessary. A humidifier, which is not maintained and its filter changes can also be a reason for bad health or someone falling sick. If you are installing one, try to ensure that you do the maintenance of the same routinely. If you feel that you will not be able to do it, ask for trained assistance and professional support. For families who have kids or young adults or babies, getting a humidifier becomes a necessity. It helps you maintain a decent temperature at all times. For growing kids, this is important. Conclusion: We all feel that getting a humidifier installed in the house might be too huge an exercise. However, whether it is in terms of investment, or in terms of regular maintenance and upkeep, a humidifier is a sound investment. Many families believe that getting a humidifier is a decent investment for the long run. Families, which opt for one, see members falling sick less often than those families who do not install a humidifier. What are some of the brands, which you trust when it comes to humidifiers? Do let us know in the comments section below. Read Also: Vampire Appliances And Electronic Costs Top 4 Must-Have Appliances In Every Kitchen Design Your Kitchen According To Your Budget And Work In Organized Manner

10 Tactics To Maintain Clear Windows

There is nothing as wonderful as sunshine to perk up your mood, create a sense of calm, or rejuvenate your spirit after considerable hard work. After all, hotel advertising utilizes actresses and actors walking out into the sun and smiling to instill a sense of relaxation, but scientific studies have shown that sunshine helps boost serotonin levels in your brain (the chemical that boosts your mood). But, in our busy lives, it isn't always possible to step outside for a dose of sunshine, leaving the majority of people to rely on their windows. And if that sunlight has to fight through dirt, smudges, and everything else that the weather (or children) have smeared over it, there just isn't as much of that mood-lifting light reaching you. Ideally, you should wash your windows twice a year, and despite the clear benefit, that is a daunting task. Here are 10 tactics to clean and maintain your windows. 10 Tactics To Maintain Clear Windows: 1. Gather Your Materials: It is important to have the right materials to clean your windows. Using the wrong ones will leave you with dirt and smudges regardless of your vigorous scrubbing. A squeegee is a superior choice over a rag, which will move the dirt from one part of the window to another. With a squeegee, you can pull all the dirt to the bottom without transferring a single spec. For small-paned windows, you may require a sponge instead of the squeegee to fit in tight spaces. And lastly, you will need several clean rags for sills, sashes, and drips. 2. Cleaning Solution: Next, you will need the right cleaning solution, two gallons of water mixed with 1 teaspoon of dish soap or equal parts water and vinegar. This amount of soap creates fewer suds and thus less soap residue to smear a clean window. 3. Pick the Right Day: Windows should not be cleaned on any day. It may seem sensible to pick a warm sunny one (after all, a little sunshine is beneficial), but the sun will dry up the cleaning solution before it can be wiped away. Therefore, a cloudy day will give you enough time to spray and wipe down your windows without any streaks. 4. Wash the windows: With a sponge or spray bottle, wet the windows with the cleaning solution. For tall windows, or windows on the second story, you may want a ladder, or you can attach the sponge to a long handle or broom. 5. Dry Immediately: And then dry the window with the rag or squeegee. For smaller windows, pull the squeegee straight down, but with larger ones pull the squeegee from side to side to clear off all dirt and cleaning solution. Make sure to wipe all drips as it is important to remove the water before the window dries to prevent streaks. 6. Clean the Rest of the Window: Make sure the clean the sills and sashes as well. They have taken just as much or a beating from the weather (and children) as the glass and deserve a little TLC. 7. Stubborn Stains: Occasionally, dirt takes a little extra work to clean off, but that doesn't necessarily mean scrubbing. Apply either straight vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes or gently rub the stain with a mineral deposit remover before cleaning normally. 8. Saving Time: If all of this sounds like your whole afternoon, an afternoon that could be spent more enjoyably at the pool or more productively at the office, consider a window cleaning service such as Thistle Perth Window Cleaning. Let someone else do the difficult part for you, while you enjoy all the sunshine benefits. 9. Keeping Windows Clean: With all the strenuous work and cash spent on cleaning windows, maintain them by vacuuming blinds and window sills inside to keep dust from accumulating. 10. Enjoy: Now you can enjoy all the mood enhancements that sunshine brings. It is time to relax and enjoy the room. Or, if you are feeling an energy boost with the newfound light, perhaps it's time to conquer that junk drawer. Read Also: speedwrite Automatic Text Generator Review & Alternatives How to Plant Grass Seed on Hard Dirt? Is Other Consumer Services A Good Career Path In 2021?

How To Prepare Your Home For Protecting Keepsakes During Storm Surges

Staying Prepared Before Storm Surges