Hurricane season is here, and Amerisure knows you can never be too prepared, too early. Businesses shouldn’t wait for a hurricane warning to start thinking about the preparations, processes and provisions needed to not only survive, but to keep things running as smoothly as possible if a hurricane does hit.
If you’re in a region that’s likely to experience hurricane-related weather, spending a little extra time and energy now will pay off in the long run. Here’s an overview of the steps your business needs to take to be prepared:
Preparations
- Create an emergency contact list including phone numbers to reach essential employees 24/7. Use this as a roster to check the status of employees after the hurricane.
- Make sure your vital records/computer files are backed-up and stored in a safe place onsite, offsite or both.
- Review your property insurance policy with your agent to verify you have the proper coverage.
- Keep all pertinent work vehicles serviced and fueled. Find a secure place to store them should hurricane conditions arise.
- Schedule regular drills for staff so they know what to do and where to do in an emergency.
Processes
- Develop an emergency response plan to outline the scenarios and corresponding procedures in case of a hurricane and other severe weather.
- Establish a business continuity plan that spells out viable hurricane response and recovery strategies to maintain the continuity of services should you be affected by a hurricane.
- Devise a communications plan that includes how your business will deliver news and other vital information to staff, vendors and clients.
- Designate a few key staff members as well as a communications tree to aid in the dissemination of information and emergency protocols.
- Contact suppliers, customers, etc. ahead of time to inform them that your business may be forced to temporarily close.
- Confirm that your staff is aware of the above plans, what role they play in them and the expectations you have of them.
Provisions
- Keep a supply of emergency equipment and supplies on hand, such as heavy plastic sheeting, plywood, masking tape, sandbags, a generator and hand tools to protect your property during a hurricane warning.
- Store a three-day supply of drinking water in plastic containers. You’ll need a gallon of water per person, per day.
- Have at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food – nothing that needs refrigerating or cooking. Best choices are: canned food and beverages, dried fruit, nuts, peanut butter, granola bars, etc.
- Ensure you have some comprehensive first aid kits onsite that are stored in airtight bags or containers, and are easily accessible to staff.
- Assemble a cache of other necessities such as: paper cups, plans and plastic utensils, garbage bags, soap, disinfectant, liquid detergent, battery-operated radio and new batteries, and flashlights.
Hurricane Facts and Tips Infographic
Hurricane Safety Tips
For additional hurricane preparedness tools and information, visit FEMA.gov or OSHA.gov.
