Preserving Your Art and Valuables Amidst Wildfire Threats

At Solomon Safety, we recognize the deep personal significance of your art and collectibles. Our mission is to provide tailored solutions that go beyond traditional fire safety measures, ensuring the protection of your prized possessions. With our expertise and commitment, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your cherished items from the potential ravages of wildfires. Here are some invaluable tips we offer to help you secure your art and valuables:

1. Art Documentation: Capture the essence of your collection by meticulously documenting each piece. Through photographs, detailed descriptions, purchase information, and supporting documents like invoices and certificates, you can create a comprehensive record of your collection’s unique story. We also recommend maintaining digital backups and providing copies to your trusted advisors.
2. Secure Storage: Safeguard important documents related to your art and collectibles by storing them in a fireproof safe with a minimum one-hour fire rating. Ensure that hard copies of invoices, certificates, appraisals, and ancillary paperwork are included, offering an additional layer of protection.
3. Strategic Placement: Consider the placement of your artwork within your living space. Installing pieces on interior walls or within interior rooms can provide an added shield against the hazards of wildfires. By minimizing exposure to windows, you reduce the risk of damage caused by intense heat, broken glass, and soot infiltration.
4. Emergency Contacts: Compile a list of emergency contacts comprising trusted vendors specializing in fine art services. These may include expert art shippers, handlers, conservators, and reputable art storage facilities. Having their contact information readily available ensures prompt and efficient assistance during critical moments.
5. Evacuation Preparedness: Collaborate with professional fine art handlers and storage experts to develop a robust evacuation plan for your priority items. Create a map highlighting the location of these pieces within your home and on your property. This plan should encompass transit arrangements, prefabricated crates, and protective packing materials. Additionally, identify a secure temporary storage location to ensure the safety of your collection during emergencies.
6. On-Site Storage Solutions: If on-site storage becomes necessary, designate a secure area with minimal windows to shield your art and valuables from potential smoke or soot damage. With our expertise, we can guide you in creating a custom storage solution that meets your specific requirements.
7. Outdoor Considerations: Pay attention to the care and maintenance of outdoor sculptures. Proper upkeep and landscape management can create a more fire-resistant environment, reducing the vulnerability of these valuable installations.
8. Vehicle Protection: Preserve the integrity of your collector cars by refraining from dusting during or after nearby wildfires. The residue left by ash particles can be abrasive and harm the vehicle’s finish. Once the threat subsides, carefully wash your car from top to bottom, removing any residue. Consider applying a protective wax coating to provide an additional layer of defense.
9. Readiness and Accessibility: Ensure your collector cars are ready for action. Keep the battery connected to a maintenance charger if the vehicle is rarely used. Regularly check tire pressures to facilitate swift relocation in the event of a wildfire threat. Park your cars facing the exit, with keys readily available, and ensure the exit route remains unobstructed.
10. Trustworthy Allies: Establish reliable connections within your community. Consider sharing your knowledge and experience by taking trusted neighbors for a ride in your collector cars. This not only builds camaraderie but also ensures that there are capable hands to protect your prized possessions in times of danger.
11. Continuous Review and Training: Regularly review your emergency response plan with your property manager and staff. Ensure that all individuals responsible for handling artwork or valuable collections receive professional training to handle potential crises effectively.
12. Personalized Emergency Response Kit: Assemble an emergency response kit tailored to the
13. specific needs of your collection. We understand that certain items may require specialized tools and supplies for protection. Here are some essential items to include in your personalized emergency response kit:
14. Gloves: Powder-free nitrile gloves for handling delicate art pieces, and heavy work gloves for outdoor sculptures.
15. Cutting Tools: Scissors and box cutters for opening packaging and creating protective materials.
16. Protective Materials: Acid-free cardboard, packing paper, and painter’s tape to secure and cushion artworks during transportation or storage.
17. Marking Tools: Pencils, markers, and a notepad for labeling and documenting items during the evacuation process.
18. Illumination: Flashlights and extra batteries to ensure visibility in low-light conditions.
19. Communication: Portable chargers for cell phones to stay connected during emergencies.
20. Air Circulation: Fans to promote air circulation and help prevent the buildup of moisture or humidity.
21. Power Accessibility: Extension cords to facilitate power supply for necessary equipment.
22. Cleaning Tools: Wet/dry vacuum and chamois cloth for potential cleanup after the threat has passed.
23. Moisture Control: Towels to absorb any moisture or water that may come into contact with your valuables.
24. Power Backup: Portable generator, if applicable, to ensure continuous power supply in case of outages.
25. Climate Control: Dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels in storage spaces.
26. By equipping yourself with these essential tools, you can take immediate action to protect your art and valuables during a wildfire event. At Solomon Safety, we are dedicated to helping you preserve your cherished possessions and providing you with peace of mind. Our team is here to support you with expert guidance, personalized solutions, and unwavering commitment to your safety and security.
27. Remember, proactive measures and preparation are key to mitigating the risks posed by wildfires. Together, let’s ensure the longevity and preservation of your treasured art and valuables.