How Preparing For Severe Weather Can Help To Save Your Business

The summer season is still very much here. It does not make its transition into fall until the 23^rd of this month. However, with a new season approaching, it’s important to be mindful of impending weather changes. While the winter is still a ways off, business owners should consider the risks associated with harsh weather conditions. Are you prepared in the event of a severe storm? Preparing for severe weather can help to save your business.

Create a comprehensive emergency plan.

Start by identifying potential weather-related risks in your area. Is it prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, floods or winter storms? Then, establish clear protocols for how your business will respond to these threats.

Your emergency plan should include evacuation procedures, communication strategies (both internal and external) and roles and responsibilities for your employees during a weather emergency. Make sure all employees are familiar with the plan, conduct regular drills and update it as needed to ensure it remains relevant.

Invest in reliable weather monitoring technology.

Consider subscribing to a weather service that provides real-time updates and alerts specific to your location. These services can help you track incoming storms, receive warnings and make informed decisions about when to activate your emergency plan.

As well, install weather monitoring equipment on your premises. Weather stations and lightning detection systems can help you to gather local data that can inform your safety protocols and response strategies. Being prepared for a storm, well in advance, is a key to optimum safety.

Secure your property.

Here’s a quick checklist to ensure that your place of business will be able to withstand the potential damage caused by severe weather. Install storm shutters or reinforced windows to protect against heavy winds; inspect and maintain your roof to prevent leaks and structural damage during heavy rains or snow; and invest in a backup power generator to ensure essential systems like lighting, security and communication remain operational during power outages.

“Using tarps to secure items stored outside can help minimize water damage,” adds Liam Lahey of Zensurance, “Secure larger materials that could become projectiles in high winds. Moreover, as part of your business continuity plan, stockpile emergency items, including a first-aid kit, blankets, non-perishable food and water, and have a flashlight and spare batteries on hand should you need to hunker down and shelter in place.”

Stock up on emergency supplies.

Create an emergency supply kit to support your business and employees during and after a severe weather event. Include items like flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, non-perishable food, bottled water and blankets. Make sure your employees know where these supplies are stored and how to access them.

Consider having additional supplies on hand. We’re talking sandbags for flood protection, fire extinguishers and a basic toolkit for minor repairs. Having these resources readily available can help your business weather the immediate aftermath of a storm.

Secure a merchant cash advance.

For many years, clients of Synergy Merchants have utilized our unique merchant cash advance program to help them get through emergency situations. Naturally, you will need money to help rebuild damaged and destroyed property. As well, you may require funding to simply help your employees get by while they’re not working.

For more information about how we can help your business survive an unforeseen emergency, please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-718-2026 or email us at info@synergymerchants.com. You can also apply online for a free, no obligation quote!