LifeStorage, a Chicago-based self-storage operator with 16 locations, has launched a fun video contest for the public. Interested parties should submit a creative two-minute video explaining why they desperately need self-storage. The winner gets a free rental on a 10-by-10 storage unit for one year.

Videos should be uploaded to the LifeStorage Facebook wall, or a link to the video can be e-mailed to [email protected]. The deadline for submissions is Dec. 21. A contest-promo video can be viewed at www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ha1LJVH8Xwo.

Videos should be no longer than two minutes in length and cannot contain any nudity, foul language or offensive material.

All 16 LifeStorage are in Chicago or one of its suburbs. The sites offer 24-hour, year-round access and other amenities and add-on services such as climate control, office suites, records storage, document destruction, mailboxes, heated loading docks, digital surveillance, and free Starbucks coffee.