There are plenty of ways you can take proactive measures that will help you prepare your business for a hurricane.
Here are a few of them from the National Hurricane Survival Initiative:
- Hire a professional roofer to determine if your company's roof needs to be reinforced or replaced.
- Consider installing features around the windows so storm shutters can be used when the need arises.
- Clear out a space to move valuable gear and equipment when a hurricane threatens.
- Evaluate your exterior property and trim any trees and/or branches that could become flying projectiles.
- Purchase flood insurance if you haven't already. Remember, flood insurance is separate from business owners insurance and usually doesn't go into effect until 30 days after purchase.
- Prepare a contact list so all employees can be made aware of violent weather.
- Make copies of important documents as backups in the event the originals are damaged or destroyed.
- Invest in an electric generator or learn how to use it, making sure the one you purchase is for commercial use.
- Fill canisters and storage containers with gasoline to fuel power equipment if the electricity goes out.
- Develop an emergency kit. Ideally, they should have 72 hours worth of water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies and batteries for flashlights and radio equipment. FEMA has a list of what other supplies to include, such as a manual can opener and toiletries.
