Preparing for a Storm as a Business Owner

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

When the forecast is showing high winds, heavy rain, or another kind of potential disaster, there are a few things that business owners can do to protect their assets.  While there may not be a sure way to prevent your business from losing power or getting a leak, there is potential for softening the blow.  

Here's a few things that business owners should consider doing when preparing for a storm.

Have a plan B: Unfortunately, we as humans cannot predict the future.  Although that would be cool.  You never know what is going to happen and when it is going to happen which is why you should always have an emergency plan.  Take note of all important equipment such as the water shut off and the breaker box.  Also locate all emergency exits and a safe room in case things take a turn for the worse.  

Communicate with your employees and customers: Discuss your emergency plan with your employees to make sure they feel safe coming to work.  Try to be understanding if someone, for some reason, is not able to make it to work due to weather conditions.  Also notify your customers of what the procedure will be in case your business does experience damage of any kind.  

Protect your documents, computer files, and backup your data: If the weather were to cause a power outage, are there any important computer files or data that may be lost?  If your business does experience a water loss are all paper documents placed in a safe place?  If not, you may want to add that to your storm preparation routine.  The last thing that we want is to lose any files or data that is necessary to keep your business running smoothly.

Pack a supply kit: Pack a bag with emergency equipment such as flashlights, walkie talkies, a first aid kit, water, and even some snacks.  These things may come in handy if the storm is more catastrophic than predicted.

Schedule an inspection: Having your building, systems, and equipment inspected is most definitely necessary depending on the severity of the storm.  Have a roofer come out and make sure there are no loose shingles and also recruit a maintenance worker to ensure that your systems are up to date.

Secure and protect outdoor objects:  This may be outdoor furniture, vehicles, or building equipment.  Anything that is able to be moved should either be brought indoors or secured to something sturdy such as a wall or a post.  Things that are at risk for getting moldy or rotten due to moisture damage should be covered with a tarp or another device that will limit the amount of contact with moisture.

These few steps should help you, as a business owner, recognize how to prepare for less than ideal weather conditions.  If your business does happen to experience water damage, you can rely on SERVPRO of Parker and Northeast Hood Counties to help get you back up and running in no time.  You can call us at 817-596-8714.