TM 5-3895-367-14&P 4-42. ADMINISTRATIVE STORAGE (CONT). (c) Open sites should be improved hardstand,    if    available.        Unimproved sites  should  be  firm,  well-drained,  and kept free of excessive vegetation. (2) Storage Plan. (a) Store  equipment  so  as  to  provide  maxi- mum  protection  from  the  elements  and to provide access for inspection, maintenance, and exercising.  Anticipate removal   or   deployment   problems   and take suitable precautions. (b) Take    into    consideration    environmental conditions such as extreme heat or cold; high   humidity;   blowing   sand,   dust,   or loose   debris;   soft   ground;   mud;   heavy snows;    or    combinations    thereof,    and take adequate precautions. (c) Establish   a   fire   plan   and   provide   for adequate    fire    fighting    equipment    and personnel. (3) Maintenance Services and Inspection. (a) Prior to storage, perform the next scheduled unit PMCS. (b) Inspect and approve the equipment prior to  storage.    Do  not  place  equipment  in storage in a nonmission-capable condition. (4) Basic Issue Items. (a) Process basic issue items with the major item to which they are assigned. (b) If  possible,  store  basic  issue  items  with the major item. (c) If stored apart from the major item, mark basic issue items with tags indicating the major    item,    its    registration    or    serial number,   and   its   location.      In   addition, place a tag or list indicating the location of  the  removed  items  in  a  conspicuous place  on  the  major  item.    Store  basic issue items in protective closures. (5) Correction of Shortcomings and Deficiencies. Correct    all    shortcomings    and    deficiencies prior  to  storage,  or  obtain  a  deferment  from the approving authority. (6) Lubrication. Lubricate equipment in accordance   with   instructions   in   Chapter   3, Section I. (7) General Cleaning, Painting, and Preservation. CAUTION Do  not  direct  water  or  steam,  under  pressure,    against unsealed    electrical    systems    or    any    exterior    opening. Failure   to   follow   this   caution   may   result   in   damage   to equipment. (a) Cleaning.    Clean  the  equipment  of  dirt, grease,  and  other  contaminants,  but  do not use vapor degreasing. (b) Painting.      Remove   rust   and   damaged paint by scraping, wire brushing, sanding,  or  buffing.    Sand  to  a  smooth finish  and  spot  paint  as  necessary  (TB 43-0209). (c) Preservation.   After  cleaning  and  drying, immediately coat unpainted metal surfaces with oil or grease, as appropriate. CAUTION Place   a   piece   of   barrier   material   (Item   1,   Appendix   E) between desiccant bags and metal surfaces. NOTE Air  circulation  under  draped  covers  reduces  deterioration from moisture and heat. (d) Weatherproofing. Sunlight, heat, moisture    (humidity),    and    dirt    tend    to accelerate    deterioration.        Close    and secure all openings except those required  for  venting  and  draining.    Seal openings   to   prevent   the   entry   of   rain, snow,  or  dust.      Insert   desiccant   when complete seal is required. Place equipment     and     provide     blocking     or framing to allow for ventilation and water drainage.  Support cover away from item surfaces that may rust,  rot, or mildew. 4-72