People keep extra household and personal items in the garage, backyard shed, or in public storage facilities. Those places become the destination for all old clothes, shoes, toys, gadgets, utensils, and everything else that had been accumulated through the years that people no longer use but do not want to get rid of, either for sentimental reasons or the possibility that someone might need them later.
Not everything, though, should be stowed in those storage places. There are some items that people should be packed securely elsewhere for safety reasons.
Caustic and combustible substances
Storage units, whether at home or in public facility, must not be used for storage of caustic and combustible substances that may cause explosion or fire. Combustible substances such as gasoline, oil, paint thinners, acids, etc. can easily catch fire or explode when the temperature gets high. Garages, sheds, and storage facilities are generally not climate controlled and may easily overheat especially during the sizzling days of summer. Storing combustible and caustic materials in these hot places is an accident waiting to happen.
Fuel-powered tools
Garages and backyard sheds normally house household and garden tools. Do not keep fuel-powered tools in those storage units because of the possibility of combustion due to high temperature. If gas-powered tools are to be kept in storage units, the tanks must be emptied of gas or any flammable fuel.
Weapons
Storing weapons and ammunition in storage units is not only illegal in many areas but also highly dangerous. The powder in ammunition could combust because of the heat while in confined storage. Storing these items will bring the high probability of an explosion or fire.
Food Items
Most food items are highly perishable and must be kept in storage with a regulated temperature, such as freezers and refrigerators. They cannot be kept in garages, sheds, or storage units with highly fluctuating temperature. Perishable food such as meat, fruits, vegetables, and milk products will spoil in no time when kept in storage units. Spoiled food items will be then become attractive to foraging pests such as flies, rodents, and ants, in addition to creating a foul odor.
Pets and animals
Pets and animals must not be kept in storage shed. Most storage units lack ventilation and the lack of oxygen will jeopardize the health of the pets or animals. Heat stroke is also a great risk.
Think safety
Safety must be the foremost consideration when you stow your extra household and personal items in storage units. Those extra items are kept in storage to save money, but you need to be prudent to save yourself from injury, too.
