It’s summer in the Southwest — which means sunshine, sweat, and unfortunately, spontaneous combustion. Lithium battery fires are making headlines, and with Arizona, Nevada, and Utah experiencing record-breaking heat, self-storage operators can’t afford to assume their facilities are fireproof. Spoiler: they’re not.

So what is cooking in your units this summer? If you don’t have a solid fire prevention strategy, it could be your bottom line.

Here’s what you need to know — and a free checklist to help you heat-proof your property today.

Why Summer Is Risk Season for Storage Fires

• Lithium-ion batteries (think: e-bikes, power tools, scooters) become unstable at high temperatures.
• Improperly stored chemicals and flammable materials can ignite under heat stress.
• No climate control? That unit can reach well over 120°F inside.

And let’s not forget — your tenants might not always read the fine print. That “no hazardous materials” clause in your lease? They may have skipped it.

The Fire Risk Checklist Every Operator Needs

Preventing fires doesn’t mean installing sprinklers and hoping for the best. It starts with proactive property management and clear tenant education. Use this checklist as your go-to summer playbook:

Download the Full Summer Fire Safety Checklist below
(You can customize it with your logo and contact info before sharing with tenants or your team.)

Key Areas of Focus:

1. Tenant Communication

• Email or text blast reminding tenants not to store flammable or heat-sensitive items.
• Clear signage posted at facility entrances and inside climate-controlled buildings.
• Lease addendum with a bolded fire risk section (hint: include lithium battery guidelines).

2. Unit Inspections

• Spot-check vacant or suspicious units monthly.
• Look for signs of unauthorized electrical hookups or stored batteries, gas, or chemicals.
• Document findings and follow up with tenants as needed.

3. Facility Prep

• Ensure fire extinguishers are up to code and visible.
• Trim overgrown landscaping and remove debris near buildings.
• Double-check access for emergency vehicles — don’t let parked cars block entry.

4. Team Training

• Host a quick summer refresher for your staff on fire protocols.
• Review what to do if smoke, heat, or suspicious items are detected.
• Have an emergency contact sheet in every office.

5. Emergency Plan

• Clearly post evacuation plans and fire department numbers.
• Regularly test fire alarms, sprinklers, and exit lighting.
• Keep tenant contact info updated for urgent notifications.

Don’t Let a Lithium Battery Torch Your Reputation

You’re not just storing boxes — you’re protecting people’s assets, and by extension, your business. A single fire can damage more than buildings. It can ruin trust, trigger lawsuits, and spike insurance premiums.

Take 20 minutes today to walk your facility. Use the checklist. Send the email. Train your team. Your future self (and your future tenants) will thank you.

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