After a challenging winter, it’s downright joyful to anticipate all the benefits a change of season brings — longer days, warming temperatures, more sunshine… and Spring storms.
While these storms may pose a risk to your business property, you can minimize the risk by following these five steps:
Develop a disaster preparedness plan
Your disaster plan should include the identification of a broad range of potential hazards, including those you may expect during the Spring. If your area is prone to tornadoes, hailstorms, straight-line winds, floods or other physical disasters, each should be addressed in the plan, as well as ways to mitigate the risks associated with each. The plan should also lay out when to evacuate your employees, identify a safe place for them to go and include an emergency communication plan that identifies roles and responsibilities for keeping everyone informed throughout the incident.
In addition to a disaster preparedness plan, your business should have a business continuity plan. If your business is disrupted by a disaster, this plan lays out how to run your business remotely or through back-up facilities and resources.
For detailed information on business disaster and continuity planning, visit: ready.gov/business .
Inspect your facility’s exterior
Water damage from a leaking roof can cause costly damage to a building. Furthermore, standing water becomes a breeding ground for dangerous mold. Wind-driven water can work its way through exterior materials, cracked or peeling caulk, and even chipped or peeling paint. Call in a roofing professional to do a thorough inspection if your roof is older, not accessible, or if you have experienced a particularly stormy winter.
Check trees around the property for damage
Take a good look at trees on and around your property that may have been damaged over the winter. Look closely at those within falling distance of your building or any utility lines.
Examine the foundation and walkways for cracks
Winter’s freeze and thaw cycles can wreak havoc on concrete, causing costly leaks or potentially dangerous structural damage in foundations, or cracked walkways and steps. Wet, cracked and uneven concrete is a big risk for slip and falls on your property.
Secure outdoor furniture and fixtures
Spring storms can be notoriously strong when warming winds meet lingering cold. If your facility has an outside area that has furniture and waste baskets, these can become projectiles in high winds. Make sure they are secured.
Need additional assistance preparing your company’s property for Spring? Reach out to your local Amerisure risk management consultant!
