Almost everyone develops an attachment to their belongings, but if parting with possessions (regardless of the value) becomes persistently problematic and results in emotional, social, or legal difficulties, you or a loved one may have a hoarding problem.

Arctic Self Storage, the premier commercial and personal storage company in Anchorage, AK, explains the dangers associated with hoarding and how their company can help. The team offers secure storage facilities in 26 different sizes, including indoor heated storage units and outdoor vehicle storage for boats, RVs, and trucks.

Here are three key hazards associated with hoarding:

Fire Hazards

Fire is the number one danger associated with hoarding. Many of the items hoarders accumulate are made of paper (books, newspapers, magazines, food wrappers, etc.), and are highly flammable. A single spark can set a home filled with flammable materials ablaze in mere minutes, and piles of accumulated junk can make it difficult for occupants to reach the exit.

Collapsing Hazards

Many hoarders stack their belongings into unsteady, unsupported piles that are liable to collapse at any moment. Hoarders have been known to lose their footing, grab a stack for support, and have it collapse, trapping them for hours or even days until a friend or neighbor looks in. If you or a loved one lives like this, consider moving the most important items into a personal storage unit. It can be a literal lifesaver.

Mold & Biohazards

Hoarders' homes are often so disorganized, mold, mildew, animal urine, feces, and other health hazards can accumulate without the residents realizing it. Other hazards, such as sharp objects, bugs, and rodents, are also common, bringing additional health problems with them.

Removing items from a hoarder residence and placing the most valuable in a personal storage unit is a "half-way" measure, possibly helping a hoarder personality begin to let go. Arctic Self Storage, a secure storage company with three convenient locations in Anchorage, AK, has units of all sizes, including heated storage units for items that cannot survive the cruel Alaska winter. Visit the website for contact information, or call (907) 563-3342 to speak with a friendly representative about your personal storage needs.