Planning an outdoor event in Chicago? Get ready for a wild ride—this city’s winds are legendary. A sudden gust can send your carefully arranged porta potties tumbling, turning your celebration into an unforgettable disaster.
But don’t worry: with these five tips for porta potty care during high wind conditions, you’ll keep your facilities standing tall and your guests smiling, come what may. A few smart moves now will guarantee that your restrooms stay put and your event runs smoothly, no matter how hard the wind blows.
Anchor the Units to the Ground
Wind gusts can topple unsecured porta potties faster than you’d expect. Use stakes, sandbags, or ground anchors to keep each unit firmly in place. Heavy-duty straps work wonders when connected to sturdy anchor points.
Empty units tip over more easily than full ones, so secure everything before your event starts. Investing in proper anchoring equipment helps prevent embarrassing disasters and keeps your guests safe.
Check your local regulations, too. Some venues require specific anchoring methods for portable facilities during outdoor events.
Strategically Place the Units
Placing your units strategically helps protect them from wind damage right from the start. Position portable restrooms behind buildings, fences, or other windbreaks whenever possible. Avoid placing units on hilltops or in open fields where wind speeds increase dramatically.
Natural barriers, such as tree lines, reduce wind impact without requiring additional equipment. Cluster units together when space allows, as they provide mutual support against strong gusts.
Your porta potty rental will perform better when you work with the landscape rather than fight it. Leave enough space between units for easy access while maximizing wind protection.
Inspect the Units Before Severe Weather
Regular inspections help you spot issues before they become a problem. Take a quick walk around each unit, giving it a gentle push to make sure it’s stable. Tighten loose bolts, swap out damaged straps, and double-check that the doors latch properly.
Don’t forget to check for cracks in the walls or roof that could worsen in strong winds. Plan to inspect the units the day before your event, and again on the event morning if the forecast calls for gusty weather.
Address any problems right away, as waiting until your guests arrive will leave you scrambling. Snap a few photos during your inspections to track any changes throughout your event.
Communicate With Your Rental Provider
When experiencing wind-related challenges, your rental company is an invaluable resource. Talk about the weather forecast during your first planning call and get their advice on the best precautions to take. Many providers can supply extra anchoring equipment or upgraded units built for harsh conditions.
Request delivery a day early so crews can secure everything properly without rushing. Alert your provider immediately if conditions worsen. They may send additional support staff to your venue. Building a strong partnership with your rental team means better service and faster solutions when unexpected situations arise during your event.
Create a Wind Emergency Plan
The best way to stay calm during a sudden weather shift is to prepare thoroughly. Assign a few team members to monitor weather updates throughout your event, so nothing catches you off guard. Set up a clear plan for temporarily closing restrooms if the winds pick up, and know the exact location of your backup facilities.
Make sure your team knows how to safely direct guests away from portable units if things get dicey. Keep emergency contact numbers for your rental provider and local authorities close at hand. With these five tips for porta potty care during high-wind conditions, you can handle whatever wild Chicago weather has in store.