Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting out, protecting your fine arts and family treasures from hurricane damage should be a key factor in determining how you store and display items in your home. Securing these possessions in advance may help minimize future damage. The following are loss-prevention tips from Rustin Levenson*, director of the Florida Conservation Associates:

Before the Hurricane

• Make a list of all works in your collection. Include notes about any existing damage, as well as the condition of the frames and bases.

• Be sure that all wall-hanging devices are secure. Remember that wet plaster lacks structural integrity, so artwork hung on plaster walls could fall. Make sure that art hung on outside walls of your home is spaced from the wall. Spacers can be purchased from a local hardware store or created by taping or screwing pieces of wood to the back of the frame. If possible, drape or wrap nonsticky art with plastic to prevent water damage. Works framed in glass may be taped, but plexiglass should not be taped.

• If works are taken off the wall, place them in an interior room. Elevate the items at least 3 inches off the floor with blocks of wood. If the surface of the work is not tacky, wrap it in plastic sheeting. Separate stacked works with cardboard larger than the size of the frame.

• Outdoor sculptures should be brought inside or secured outside. Sculptures left outdoors can be wrapped in burlap or blankets tied with rope to protect them from flying sand or objects.

After the Hurricane

• Early treatment is the best way to help reduce damage. Contact a professional conservator for assistance as soon as possible. For referrals to Chubb’s independent network of conservators, appraisers and other fine art specialists, contact your agent or broker.

• If works are wet, gently blot off excess moisture with towels or blotting paper. Carefully remove wet backings, mats and frames.

• Move wet artwork to an air-conditioned area as soon as possible. Meanwhile, to reduce mold and mildew, keep the works in a lighted area where the air is kept moving with fans.

• Remove any remaining wrapping on outdoor objects and rinse with clean water.

• A fine layer of salt will be deposited on works left indoors. Dust these items with a soft brush and wipe metal objects with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Download Hurricanes: Before & After Tips to Protect Your Works of Art