Basic Checklist for Disaster-Prepping Your Studio

 1. High Winds/Hurricane/Tornado

If you live in an area that may experience high-wind events, prepare in advance to secure your property:

• Windows: Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection. A second option is to cut 5/8” sheets of marine plywood to fit your windows, and have them ready to install securely. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.

• Roof: Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.

• Trees and shrubs: Be sure that any trees and shrubs close to your home are well-trimmed. Remove all dead and hanging wood.

• Gutters and downspouts: Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.

2. Flood

If your property is susceptible to flooding:

• Elevate the furnace, water heater, and circuit-breaker panel or fuse box.

• Install "check valves" in sewer traps, to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your studio or home.

• Seal your basement walls with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.

• If a flood is imminent, move essential items upstairs. Turn off utilities at main switches or valves.

  3. Earthquake

If you live in an earthquake-prone area, be sure to:

• Secure shelving and cabinets to the wall; have safety locks on storage units.

• Use museum wax to secure smaller objects to shelves.

(note: museum wax --sometimes called quake wax--can be purchased from a supplier of art conservation products, such as University Products, Inc.,www.universityproducts.com  or Conservation Resources www.conservationresources.com)

• Place heavy objects near the floor.

• Brace overhead light fixtures.

• Have an expert check your building for structural defects.

• Hung items that are heavy should be located away from where people sit.

 A short video on earthquake-proofing by the Insurance Information Institute.

4. Wildfire

If wildfire is a danger where you live or work:

• Create safety zone of at least 30 feet around your studio and home, by removing and reducing highly flammable vegetation.

• Remove debris from locations close to structures.

• Enclose all eaves.

• Use fire-resistant siding and safety-glass windows and doors.

• Use non-combustible materials for your roof.

• Develop an external water supply — such as a small pond, well or pool. 

5. Fire

Fire is a danger everywhere! To protect your home and/or studio, along with yourself and loved ones:

• Install smoke alarms — then test them regularly. Replace alarms once every 10 years.

• Make sure windows are not painted or nailed shut.

• Consider escape ladders if your residence or studio space has more than one level.

• Clean out storage areas. Do not let trash accumulate.

• Be extremely careful when using and storing flammable liquids.

• Insulate chimneys and place spark arresters on top. Chimneys should rise at least three feet higher than your roof.

• Do not overload extension cords and outlets. Make sure the insulation on these cords doesn’t touch bare wiring. Inspect cords for exposed wires and loose plugs.

• Place heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials. Make sure the floor and adjacent walls are properly insulated. Inspect all heating units.

• Ask your local fire department to conduct a safety inspection.