Safe RVing Tips & Pet-Friendly Road Trips

As an avid RV enthusiast and a proud pet parent, you might be considering taking your furbaby on a road trip. Great idea!

RVing with pets can be an incredibly gratifying experience. You can explore new destinations while keeping your beloved animals close by. Whether you’re traveling with your loyal canine or your curious feline, the freedom and flexibility of RV life can make for some truly unforgettable adventures.

From safely storing your RV to preparing your RV for the challenges of the road, Trusted Self Storage has you covered. Many of their facilities provide secure, reliable, budget-friendly RV storage for your vehicle. Covered pull-through parking with 20 Amp is available at 5 Star Boat and RV Storage in Georgetown, TX. Store your RV with us between those pawsome road trips.

pet friendly adventure

Preparing for a Pet-Friendly Adventure

Before hitting the road with your pets, it’s essential to ensure that your RV is properly equipped and ready to accommodate their needs.

Start by thoroughly cleaning and inspecting your RV. Pay special attention to exposed wires or sharp edges that could pose a risk to your pets. Consider installing pet-friendly features like non-slip flooring, protective barriers, and designated sleeping areas to keep your furry friends safe and comfy.

Next, stock up on all the necessary supplies, from food and water bowls to litter boxes and waste bags. Don’t forget the treats! Creating a designated pet zone within your RV can provide a sense of security for your little buddies.

Essential Supplies for You and Your Furbabies

When it comes to RVing with pets, it’s important to be prepared with the essentials. Here’s a comprehensive list of supplies to keep your pets content.

  • Food and water bowls
  • Their favorite pet food and treats
  • Leashes, harnesses, and collars (with up-to-date identification tags)
  • Pet first-aid kit
  • Medications and veterinary records
  • Toys and chew items
  • Bedding, blankets, and a cozy pet bed
  • Travel litter box and litter (for cats)
  • Waste bags and a portable pet waste disposal system
  • Grooming supplies (brush, nail clippers, etc.)
  • Pet carrier or crate (for transport and emergencies)
  • Portable water and food dishes
  • Pet-safe cleaning products
  • Flea and tick prevention
  • Calming supplements or anxiety aids (if needed)
  • Creating an Inviting Space for Your Pets

Creating an Inviting Space for Your Pets
Making your pets feel at home in the RV is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind. Start by designating a cozy, pet-friendly area with their favorite bedding, toys, and familiar scents. Encourage your pets to explore their new surroundings gradually, allowing them to feel safe and secure.

Consider installing pet gates or barriers to create a dedicated pet zone. This gives your animals a private retreat when they need one. Provide ample opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation. Include interactive toys or puzzle feeders, to keep your pets engaged.

Keep Your Pets Entertained on the Road
Keeping your pets physically and mentally stimulated is essential for their overall well-being. Schedule regular exercise breaks, allowing your furry friends to stretch their legs and explore new environments. Take your dogs for walks and to pet-friendly parks and beaches. Provide your kitties with scratching posts, cat trees, and interactive toys.

Find pet-friendly RV parks with the following amenities that cater to your little friends’ needs.

  • Fenced-in dog parks or off-leash areas
  • Pet washing stations and grooming facilities
  • Waste bag dispensers and disposal stations
  • Hiking trails and outdoor play spaces
  • On-site pet-sitting or pet-walking services

Handling the Challenges That Come With Taking Your Pet on a Road Trip

Traveling with pets can be fun but also presents a few challenges. Here are some tips to help you navigate the difficulties with ease.

Anxiety and Stress
Calming supplements and soothing music can help alleviate pet anxiety.

Excessive Barking and Meowing
Give your pets regular exercise and use interactive toys to engage them. If necessary, a white noise machine can quiet disruptive sounds.

Motion Sickness
Your vet should be able to provide you with anti-nausea medication or natural remedies to help pets cope with movement.

Accidents
Establish a consistent potty routine with dogs. Most cats will easily adjust to a new litter box. In case of an unexpected mess, be patient with your little buddy. If you have appropriate cleaning supplies on hand, you can tackle the accident quickly and with little disruption.

Separation Anxiety
Don’t leave your animals unattended for extended periods. Consider using pet-safe anxiety aids or GPS trackers to monitor their well-being.

Safety Tips for Traveling With Pets

Keeping your furry friends safe during your travels is paramount. Before you hit the road, make sure your pets are up-to-date on all vaccinations and have a microchip for identification. Pack a pet first-aid kit, and familiarize yourself with basic pet emergency care. It’s also a good idea to research veterinary clinics along your route.

During the journey, never leave your pets unattended in the RV, especially in extreme temperatures. Use pet-safe seat belts or crates to secure them while the vehicle is in motion. Additionally, be mindful of potential hazards like open windows, hot surfaces, and toxic substances.

Final Thoughts
Sharing RV adventures with your beloved pet can be an unforgettable experience. By properly preparing your RV, packing the right supplies, and following safety guidelines, you can create a comfortable and secure home-on-wheels for your furry friends. Your pawsome adventure will be more enjoyable for you and your pet if you’re ready for the unexpected.

What is the Right Size Self Storage Unit For Your Needs?

Whether you live in a sprawling five-bedroom home or a cozy studio apartment, clutter is inevitable. From children’s toys to small kitchen gadgets and random paperwork, it sometimes feels like these items multiply on their own.

In any case, various life events along with the demands of everyday living can quickly lead to a need for extra space. Whether you’re moving or renovating, self storage can be your ideal solution.

During your search for a self storage unit, it’s important to consider how much space you’ll need. On one hand, you don’t want to pay for unnecessary storage. On the other hand, however, you want to have sufficient space for your belongings.

Trusted Self Storage offers a wide range of self storage units in different types and sizes. Not only do they provide top-notch service and security, but they offer a variety of amenities suited to your needs.

To guide you on your storage journey, we’ve gathered a few tips and tricks. These will help you determine the right size storage unit for your needs.

Maximize self storage space Maximize self storage space

Maximize Your Self Storage Space

Consider The Optimal Storage Formula
The following formula will help you to determine the right size storage unit for your needs. According to Moishe’s Self Storage, this is a foolproof formula.

Optimal storage = boxes (space-items) + height

  • Optimal storage: The most storage that you can get for the cost
  • Boxes: Containers holding belongings
  • Space: Available and non-occupied area
  • Items: Your personal belongings
  • Height: Distance from the floor to ceiling (the average storage unit is 8 feet in height)

The most effective method to maximize your space is by using every inch effectively. Know the area that you have available and deduct the items you’re storing.

Leverage Your Vertical Space

Take advantage of the vertical space in your storage unit. On average, storage units are 8 feet tall, providing ample room for stacking your belongings. Before choosing your packing boxes, consider how many you can use to maximize the height of the unit. Try to avoid wasted space at the top of the unit. Measure carefully to make the most of every inch.

Maximize the Benefits of Vacuum Bags

Use vacuum bags to ensure that your garments, bedding, and other fabrics are protected from pests, mildew, and creasing. These bags can be effortlessly stored in containers or boxes, allowing for convenient stacking. It’s surprising how much space can be saved by removing excess air from bulky clothing items, comforters, and blankets.

Try the Bundle Method

The Bundle Method was first developed by Judith Guildford, the writer of a travel guide called “The Packing Book.” This strategy not only helps you save space in your self storage unit but also keeps your belongings organized.

To use this method, start by laying your clothes flat and then folding them on top of each other multiple times. This creates a neat bundle that can easily fit into a single bag.

By bundling your clothes, you can prevent wrinkles and make the most efficient use of space. This is especially effective if you’re storing suitcases in your storage unit. If you need further help, watch this Packing Like a Pro video.

Roll Your Clothing

If the bundle approach doesn’t work for you, another space-saving hack is to roll your clothing. Rolling clothing saves space and avoids wrinkles, and it’s easier to achieve than the bundle method. You won’t need a flat open bag or suitcase for this to work.

Pack Frequently-Used Items Last

To ensure easy access to your frequently used items, it is recommended to pack them last. By doing so, these items will be conveniently located in the front of the unit. This will save you from the hassle of rummaging through your belongings when you need to find a specific item.

Use Boxes, Not Bags

Opt for boxes instead of bags when it comes to storage. Plastic bags tend to trap moisture, leading to the growth of mildew. Moreover, using bags can give your storage unit a messy garage appearance instead of a neat and organized look.

Protect Your Belongings

This doesn’t concern the size of your self storage unit, but it’s an important point. You should never keep valuables in your storage unit without insuring them. As an extra level of security, ask the manager if they offer an optional tenant protection plan. This will be money well spent and save you from the risk of a catastrophic loss.

Conclusion:

When determining the right size self storage unit for your needs, it is important to strike a balance between having enough space for your belongings and not paying for unnecessary storage. By following the tips in this article, you can make the most efficient use of your self storage unit while keeping your items organized and secure.

Self Storage: The Christmas Gift that Keeps on Giving

Self Storage: The Christmas Gift that Keeps on Giving

It’s finally the holidays! Anyone else excited? Yes, we certainly are! But we also know that when the holidays come around, many individuals are searching for the ideal present for their loved ones. Finding a present that you know they’ll both enjoy and put to good use may be a real challenge. Sending a fruit basket or buying the newest digital item as a present may seem like a good idea, but they will likely be forgotten or obsolete in a matter of weeks or months.

Self storage units are an excellent option to consider if you are looking for a unique gift idea, Almost everyone can benefit from extra space. Self storage facilities are useful all the time, not only during the holiday festivities.

Person handing keys to another person.

Is self storage a weird present?

In most people’s minds, the idea of giving a self storage unit as a present seems at first strange and maybe even impersonal. But that’s not the case when you weigh all the ways in which a self storage facility might improve one’s life. For example:

  1. This is a great way to help someone get rid of things they don’t need.
  2. It may inspire the person to finally have their house in tip-top condition.
  3. If people are looking for extra space for the goods they are acquiring, it may be a wonderful way to ease stress.

Why Self Storage Makes a Perfect Christmas Present

Nobody gives much thought to additional space until they really need it. Now that we’ve mentioned how a self storage unit can improve one’s life, here are some reasons why self storage makes a great holiday gift.

  1. Self Storage is Affordable
    A storage unit may be a useful and adaptable present. It is like giving someone a present that keeps on giving every single month. Your storage unit will never spoil, become old, or go out of style; it’s the perfect present. With a month-to-month lease, you decide how long you want to commit to the space. You have the option of selecting a period of one month, six months, or a full year.
  2. Self Storage is Flexible
    Self storage lockers are a godsend for stashing away a wide variety of belongings. Your loved one can put anything they want in their storage space: holiday decorations, extra furniture, or even art and old items. When relocating from one house to another, having a place to store unused furniture and other belongings is a huge benefit.
  3. Self Storage is Convenient
    You don’t even have to leave your home to give someone a self storage unit as a present! Finding the perfect self storage facilities and unit sizes can be done from the comfort of your own home. If you’d rather see the unit in person, however, you may schedule a tour at the facility.

Who Would Benefit from Receiving a Self Storage Unit as a Gift?

Who would appreciate the gift of self-storage? Practically anybody! A wife would appreciate having a fresh storage option for seasonal goods or cherished heirlooms that she no longer wants to display. Husbands will like having a dedicated storage spot for their fishing gear, which otherwise would be scattered throughout the garage.

Kids, too, will appreciate a place to store their outgrown toys temporarily while making way for newer ones; they’ll appreciate this even more when they realize they can easily retrieve these items when they want them.

As a Christmas gift, a self storage unit will be appreciated by just about everyone. The best part is that this is a gift that keeps on giving all year! How many other presents can do the same thing, right?

Final Thoughts
A self storage unit as a Christmas gift is not an insult even if the recipient has a messy house or an unruly hobby. It is simply providing them with something that they will use. Plus points if it helps them get rid of clutter and get things in order. So, if you’re looking for a thoughtful present for yourself or a loved one, consider self storage.

Buy Christmas Gifts Early and Hide Them in Self Storage

Hide Your Christmas Gifts

It’s amazing how quickly some responsibilities become apparent as Christmas approaches. It’s time to start planning what presents to give this year, which means it’s game time to decide how to go about finding those presents. Where to start? How about a good place to hide your Christmas gifts?

Sure, Christmas is a time for joy, but let’s face it: checking items off your Christmas shopping list can be a major source of stress. Black Friday, other pre-Christmas deals, online shops, and Christmas markets are all options for finding gifts. Anything from kid’s toys to more complex presents for relatives and friends. The stress of getting all your Christmas shopping done before the big day is nothing compared to the anxiety of keeping your presents secret until Christmas Eve.

The issue is, where on earth are you going to store it all? You may have a large enough spare room, but is it safe enough to keep prying eyes out? It’s not easy to keep a toddler from finding where a big, shiny gift is hidden.

The solution is actually pretty easy: just lease a self-storage facility and store your presents there until the situation is under control.

Christmas Gifts

Hide Your Christmas Gifts: Why Self Storage Makes Gift Giving Easy

 

1. Self Storage as Gift-Wrapping Center

Waiting until the kids are in bed is not necessary in order to get the gift wrapping done.
After all, it’s not simple to find a place in the house for all of the wrapping materials. Instead of squeezing everything into your house, renting a self storage unit is the best option. This makes the most sense if you plan on using the storage unit as a staging area for gift wrapping. After purchasing, there is no need to keep them wrapped for days. Get your gifts and then transport them to your storage facility. You may bring in your tape, wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons and set up a folding table if there’s room.

Keep the wrapped gifts in self storage until you’re ready to bring them back and put them beneath the tree. Your gift can be kept in storage until it’s time to surprise the recipient, which is especially helpful if it’s something large and awkward to wrap.

2. Self Storage as a Hideout for Your Presents

Holiday gift hiding may be a challenge when you’re trying to protect presents from curious little hands, curious dogs, or a nosy significant other. Some presents under the tree may be hidden with more ease than others. A Nintendo Switch, for example, is much more compact than a treadmill, so it’s easy to see why it might be more practical to hide.

It’s convenient to pick gifts up from a shop, transport them to your storage facility, and then leave them there before going home. The goods are now safely hidden from prying eyes. If you want to hide a brand-new Tesla or other expensive items until Christmas, you can’t go wrong by putting it in storage. If you rent a storage unit for a short time, you can rest easy knowing that your gifts won’t be found and opened before Christmas Eve.

3. Self Storage as a Secure Vault for Your Gifts

Since you’re keeping expensive gifts that you spent time selecting, the storage unit should have strong security measure in place. To make sure that any would-be burglars are met with many “blocks,” you should search for multiple “lock points.” Make sure you check for things like closed-circuit television and insurance, and that you visit the location and ask the personnel about safety precautions.

Getting a climate-controlled unit is recommended if you’re storing delicate or fragile items, particularly if you live in an area that has harsh winters. Conventional units are susceptible to damage from cold and dry weather. A climate-controlled space maintains a comfortable temperature and humidity level.

Renting a storage unit is the first step in creating the most fun and surprising holiday ever. As the big day draws near, your family and friends may start to worry about where you’ve stashed all the gifts. They will look for signs that gifts have been purchased and wrapped but will come up empty-handed. In the days leading up to Christmas, you may visit your storage facility, get your presents, and place them all under the tree in your living room, just like Santa Claus. All of your efforts will be worthwhile when you see the joy on your loved ones’ faces as they open their gifts on Christmas morning.

How are Climate-and-Humidity-Controlled Self Storage Different

If you’re getting ready to store valuable or temperature-sensitive items, it’s a good idea to consider climate- and humidity-controlled self storage. Do you understand the difference between the two, or are you looking for advice on the benefits of these types of storage. Read the following information to learn more about humidity- and climate-controlled self storage.

Standard self storage units are sufficient for most household and business items, but your temperature-sensitive and irreplaceable goods need the added protection of climate- or humidity-controlled storage. 

If you collect valuable artwork or antiques or just want to store furniture, photographs, and electronics, you need climate-controlled self storage. The consistent temperatures of a climate-controlled storage unit will protect your belongings from damage and deterioration.

Another option to consider is humidity-controlled self storage.  Humidity-controlled storage adjusts the humidity of the air inside your space to maintain safe levels of moisture regardless of temperature fluctuations. This type of storage reduces the chances of mold, mildew, rust, and rot. 

Check out the following information so that you recognize the difference between climate- and humidity-controlled storage.

Mini storage units facility.

 

Climate- and Humidity-Controlled Storage: What’s the Difference

The phrase “climate control” is one of the most confusing subjects in the self-storage industry. Climate control should manage both temperature and humidity within a narrow range, but in some cases, only temperatures are controlled and humidity levels are ignored.

Climate-Controlled Storage

Climate-controlled storage is the more familiar of the two options. Climate-controlled storage units are typically kept between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit with a base humidity of 55 percent. There are no set industry standards for climate-controlled storage. Always ask facility operators for their specific temperature and climate-control standards. They should be able to explain what they do to maintain these standards and give you this information in writing.

  • Look for a facility that offers climate monitoring. The temperature and humidity should be continually monitored to verify that settings remain consistent. Ask the manager if they use generator backup in case of a lengthy power outage.
  • It’s not completely impossible, but it is rare to find climate control in a drive-up, outdoor unit. If this type of unit is advertised as climate-controlled, it’s more likely that it is simply heated or cooled to some degree. This is not true climate control.
  • Always read your rental agreement carefully. Storage facilities aren’t responsible for the items that you store. No facility will give you a “guarantee” that truly covers your belongings, so it’s up to you to insure your stored items. If you have a standard homeowners or renters insurance policy, it’s likely that you have off-premises coverage. Talk to your insurance agent to verify your coverage. Additionally, you can check to see whether your facility offers a tenant protection plan. This is not insurance, but another layer of protection for your belongings. Ask you facility manager for details.

To prevent damage and deterioration, items that should be kept in climate controlled storage include:

  • Antiques
  • Artwork
  • Documents
  • Electronics
  • Furniture
  • Photographs

Humidity Controlled Storage

Humidity control is a type of storage where the humidity is managed with an air conditioner or dehumidifier installed in the building. Generally, the humidity levels are kept around 55 percent, however, this varies based on the facility. The property manager should be happy to provide you with details.

Items that should be stored in a humidity-controlled unit include:

  • Clothing
  • Delicate Paper Items
  • Fabrics
  • Instruments
  • Metals
  • Wine

Which Option is the Best Fit for My Needs 

Self storage facilities will frequently offer both climate- and humidity-controlled units. These spaces use high-quality HVAC systems. The units are often advertised as climate-controlled storage. It’s important to ask the manager whether or not the space is both climate- and humidity-controlled. 

Having both climate- and humidity-controlled storage prevents a variety of problems. Mold, mildew, and rotting are can be stopped. Valuable artwork, musical instruments, and wine, as well as many of your prized possessions need the protection of both climate and humidity control.

When you’re trying to decide which type of storage is best for your needs, consider several factors. Are you storing valuable or sentimental items that are expensive, or even impossible, to replace? Are you looking at short- or long-term storage/ If you’ll be using self storage for only a month or two, the extra expense of temperature and humidity control may not be worth it. It’s also important to consider the climate of your storage location. 

Summary

Now that you have a better understanding of the similarities and differences of climate- and humidity-controlled storage, you can make an informed decision. In most cases, the manager of the facility can guide you in the right direction as far as the type of storage that suits your requirements.

How to Keep Your Bike in Top Condition in Self Storage

Biking or cycling is a fun and healthy hobby to enjoy during the warmer weather. It’s great exercise and it gets you outdoors to enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature. If you live in and around the city, biking can be a practical and money-saving way to get you to your favorite hot spots. On the other hand, for those who truly enjoy taking part in a sport, biking is more than transportation or exercise. It’s a passion. 

According to Statista, the number of cyclists/bike riders in the U.S. in 2017 was 47.5 million. As reported by the world economic forum, in America and globally, the COVID-19 pandemic suspended a number of public transport services, getting some citizens on their bikes. The end of 202o saw $6.9 billion spent on bicycles and accessories, and Q1 reports show that the trend is continuing, with Americans expected to spend $3.2 billion by year’s end.

Whatever the reason, many Americans are enjoying the trend. While you may be enjoying your bike during the warmer months, cold weather is right around the corner. It’s time to think about storage options to keep your bike free from damage or deterioration. The most practical and affordable method of keeping your bike safe and protected during the winter weather is a secure, affordable self storage facility.

 

Protect Your Bike in a Self Storage Unit

When you’re storing your bike for an extended period, look for a convenient, affordable self storage facility that has the amenities you need. Look for climate-controlled storage, a wide range of unit sizes, and plenty of security features. To get you started in the right direction read, How to Choose the Right Self Storage Facility for Your Needs as well as the following tips and suggestions.

Check the Bike Frame

Check your bike frame for cracks, and be sure that the frame is not bent. Look at the welded areas where the metal connects and examine the bottom bracket. These areas absorb the most stress when you’re biking and should be carefully checked. You wouldn’t want your bike to come apart while you’re enjoying a ride.

Clean Prior to Storing

Prior to storing your bike for an extended time, give it a thorough cleaning. Leftover dirt and grime will cause your bike frame to rust. Wipe down the frame, gears, and any other accessories on your bike. 

Remember to clean out any bags and empty and clean water bottles. You don’t want to attract pests with leftover munchies. You’ll be glad your bike is clean and ready to ride when the warm weather returns.

Inflate the Tires

Another important step that you don’t want to miss is properly inflating your tires. If possible, use a bike rack or hook to keep your tires above ground. Tires can deflate over time. If you leave the bicycle on the ground for an extended period, you may find flat spots if the tires have not been inflated during storage. The weight of the bike can warp or distort the rims and rubber of the tires. 

If you can’t use a bike rack, another good way to store your bicycle is by flipping it upside down. That way, the weight is on the handlebars and seat instead of the tires and rims.

Lubricate the Chains and Cables

Chains and cables accumulate a lot of dust and grime. To stop rust and keep your bike looking great, clean and lubricate the chains and cables. This will prevent corrosion on these sensitive components.

Remove Batteries

Any batteries should be removed prior to storing your bike. Remove batteries from backlights, headlights, and flashers. If you’re unable to remove batteries, make sure they’re fully charged before you put your bike in storage.

When It’s Time to Retrieve Your Bike From Storage

When you’re ready to take your bike out of storage, it can be tempting to get right on and take it for a spin. 

No matter where you’ve been storing your bike, it’s bound to be a little dusty. Rinse it with a hose and then lightly clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Be sure to thoroughly dry it. If you find any rusty spots, use WD-40 to clean them as well as possible. You’ll probably have to replace those pieces sooner or later.

Pump some air into the tires to make sure they are properly inflated and that no holes have developed. Look at the brakes and press the brake levers to be sure the pads are making contact with the rims.

Your bike may have dried out a bit while in storage. Lubricate all of the moving parts, and rub down the seat, pedals, and handlebars.

Wrapup

Don’t ruin your bike with improper storage methods. Take the time to maintain it properly and store it away from the elements. Safe, affordable self storage is the perfect solution to keep your bike in the best possible condition so that you can enjoy it for many years to come.

Why You Don’t Stash Fireworks in Your Self Storage Unit

After a dismal and taxing 2020, Independence Day 2021 is going to be a momentous celebration for the USA!  Parades, picnics, and all kinds of special events will be in full force. It’s a given that people will be making memories and commemorating the joy of America’s freedoms with fireworks and sparklers. While you’re enjoying the festivities, please take safety precautions – not only with using but with storing your fireworks.

 

Family watching fireworks on 4th of July.

 

Please Don’t Store Your Fireworks in Your Storage Unit

When it’s time to pack up and store the patriotic decorations, sparklers, and fireworks for next year, be cautious. Please don’t stash your extra fireworks in your self storage unit. 

For starters, it’s against policy to store fireworks or any other type of explosive at most self storage facilities. The possibility of an explosion is too risky, not only to your personal valuables but to the possessions of other tenants. It also creates a serious hazard to any of the staff or visitors to the facility. It’s not worth risking serious injury or damage by storing fireworks or any other flammable materials in your unit.

If you’re curious, here is a complete list of items that you are not permitted to put in self storage:

  • Plants
  • Firearms and munitions
  • Food and pet food
  • Flammables, explosives, radioactive materials
  • Lead paint, asbestos, urea-formaldehyde, petroleum products, or methane
  • Medical waste
  • Stolen goods
  • Cash (not covered by insurance)

Your fireworks are considered explosives. If you have leftover fireworks that you need to store, check the following tips.

 

Tips for Storing Fireworks

These tips are not guaranteed, but they can help keep you and your family safe.

 

Tip 1: Depending on where you live, it may not be legal to store fireworks. You should check your city or county ordinances to verify that storing leftover fireworks is permitted.

Tip 2: High temperatures do not set fireworks off. It’s okay to store them in a hot, dry environment; it’s only the heat from a match or lighter that sets them off.

Tip 3: Keep those unused fireworks in a secure place away from your home and family. The best place is a locked shed that is far away from the house. And, don’t store them near ignitable, flammable materials like oil, gasoline, water heaters, or any kind of naked flames.

Tip 4: Don’t store them in cardboard boxes. Not only will these add fuel to the fire if there is a catastrophe, but cardboard will not protect fireworks from water. The best solution is a metal storage container. Be careful not to overpack the box and crush the lower layers, ruining the fireworks for later use. 

Tip 5: Do not tell your children where the fireworks are stored, and be sure that pets can’t get at them.

Tip 6: Keep a fire extinguisher near the fireworks storage area.

Tip 7: If fireworks get wet, they should be completely soaked and discarded. Fireworks cannot be dried out and used safely because they become unstable.

Tip 8: When fireworks have been stored in a manner that keeps them dry, the chemicals do not deteriorate or become unstable or dangerous. If no moisture gets into the packaging, fireworks can last 50 years and perform as if they were new. 

 

The main thing to remember is the safety of you and your family. Follow the above tips, and you shouldn’t have any problems.

 

Fun Fourth of July Facts

Now that we have the serious stuff out of the way, here is a bit of fourth of July trivia from The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

 

  • July 4, 1776: Thomas Jefferson noted in his “Weather Memorandum Book” that the weather was cloudy, the temperature 76ºF.
  • August 2, 1776:  Most people signed the Declaration of Independence. Only two men signed on July 4, 1776—John Hancock and Charles Thompson. 
  • July 4, 1826: Both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson—signers of the Declaration of Independence who each later became president—died on the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the declaration.
  • July 4, 1884: The Statue of Liberty was formally presented to the United States by the people of France.
  • July 4, 1911: It was a hot Fourth of July in New England. All-time state records were set in Nashua, New Hampshire (106°F), and Vernon, Vermont (105°F).
  • July 4, 1938: Four of July became a national holiday.

 

Have a joyful holiday, complete with fun times and treasured memories. But, be careful with those fireworks!

 

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