That's a great question! A runaway trash can in a storm is a huge hassle—it makes a mess, you lose the can, and it can even cause damage. The good news is, preventing it is pretty straightforward with a few simple strategies.
First, add weight. This is the easiest fix. You can place a few bricks or a concrete block inside the bottom of the can before you put your bag in. For a cleaner look, you can even secure a weight to the outside bottom. If your can has handles, use bungee cords or straps. Loop a heavy-duty cord over the lid and hook it under the handles on both sides, pulling it tight. This secures the lid and adds tension, making the can less likely to tip.
Strategic placement is your friend. Don't leave the can in an open, exposed area. Tuck it against a sturdy fence, the side of your house, or in a corner where structures can block some of the wind. If you have a fence post, deck railing, or an anchor point, use a ratchet strap or a length of rope to tether the can's handle securely to it.
For a more permanent solution, consider investing in commercial products. You can buy trash can enclosures, ground anchors with cables, or specially designed weighted bases that your can sits into. These are excellent for areas with frequent high winds.
Finally, timing matters. If you know a storm is coming, try to avoid putting your can out the night before if pickup is the next afternoon. Every hour it's out there exposed is a risk. If you must put it out, do it as close to pickup time as possible.
A combination of weight and a simple strap is usually all you need for most storms. Taking these small steps will save you from a nasty cleanup job and keep your property and neighborhood tidier.