Before the Storm

• Charge your smart devices if a storm is coming.
• Purchase a battery-operated charger and keep it fully charged.
• Stay aware: Monitor forecasts and NOAA Weather Radio for alerts.
• Postpone outdoor activities when storms are forecasted.
• Bring outdoor pets inside.
• Take shelter in a sturdy building, away from windows, doors and electrical appliances.
• Avoid contact with electrical conductors like appliances, metal objects and water.

Storms don’t always affect us at the most convenient time. You may be at work, or your kids may be at school when the weather starts to deteriorate. Prepare your vehicle now in case you find yourself stuck in the middle of severe or icy conditions. 

• Check antifreeze, ignition system and clean battery terminals.
• Get a brake checkup and heater/defroster maintenance.
• Ensure headlights, taillights and hazard blinkers are working. 
• Use fuel additives to keep water out of the system.
• Keep a full tank of gas to prevent the fuel line from freezing.
• Check oil, thermostat, air filters and tire tread.
• Most winter conditions can be managed with all-weather radials. 
• Prepare a mobile emergency supply kit:
  • First aid kit
  • Jumper cables, flares 
  • Full tank of gas
  • Tow rope, tire chains or snow tires
  • Bag of sand or cat litter
  • Shovel, ice scraper, snow brush 
  • Blanket, boots, gloves, warm clothes
  • Flashlight
  • Water, snacks
  • Cell phone charger

• Create and communicate a Severe Weather Plan with your team.
• Secure the building and cover windows.
• Move equipment and furniture to secure areas.
• Plan for alternate power and communication options. 
• Store emergency supplies and plan for up to two weeks without utilities.

 

Know Your Risk

• Check your hurricane evacuation level and FEMA flood maps to determine if your business location is vulnerable to storm surge or freshwater flooding.
• Have your building(s) inspected by a licensed professional to find out if your workplace is vulnerable to hurricane force winds and what is recommended to retrofit.

Protect Employees

• Employee safety comes first! Prepare, distribute and follow your business severe weather plan for recovery.
• Consider providing shelter to employees and their families and helping with supplies after a storm.
• Establish a rendezvous point and time for employees in case communications are disrupted.
• Establish a call-down procedure for warning and post-storm communications.
• Provide photo IDs and a letter of authorization to enter the building.

Contact Customers and Suppliers 

• Share your communications and recovery plan in advance.
• Prepare a list of vendors to provide disaster recovery services.

Review Insurance Coverage

• Have your business appraised at least every five years.
• Inventory, document and photograph equipment, supplies and workplace.
• Have copies of insurance policies and customer service/home numbers.
• Take out Business Interruption Insurance.
• Consider Accounts Receivable and Valuable Papers Coverage and Income Destruction Insurance. If you have Business Owners Protection Package (BOPP), check co-insurance provisions.

NOTE: Flood damage requires separate coverage and is not covered under other insurance programs.