By UFG Risk Control Technical Manager Steve Latham

As warmer weather approaches, so does the risk of a hurricane or a severe storm depending on where you live. You may not be able to control Mother Nature, but you can use the early days of spring to prepare for weather perils that could come your way. And with National Hurricane Preparedness Week the first part of May, it’s a great time to ensure the best preparedness kit is in place for your establishment.

As a risk control professional, I’ve helped many business owners develop and utilize preparedness checklists to make sure they’re ready to overcome serious convective storms – from hurricanes to hail, tornados to floods. There are a few to-dos you may be able to use to help put preparations in place, too.

Here are 3 easy steps to help prepare your business for a hurricane or a severe storm.

1. Create a business continuity plan that covers different weather catastrophes.
A business continuity plan is a playbook for how you’d continue to operate your business in the event of an emergency, including a weather-related catastrophe. Consider issues like how you’d communicate with staff or customers and take note of what to do and how to do it. Document evacuation routines, how to protect any records, how to close and reopen your business and any other guidance you or your staff may need to overcome a crisis (be sure to have your insurance agent or carrier information handy for help filing a claim). Maybe the most important part of an emergency plan: practice. Run through different scenarios so you can spot, and fix, holes in your plan.

2.  Batten down the hatches: inspect, secure, move.
If high winds, high waters or heavy rains are common storm occurrences where you live, it’s wise to inspect your buildings. Pay special attention to vulnerable points like overhead doors, windows, the roof and siding so that you have ample opportunity to repair or replace materials that show weakness. Take a good look at roof drains, scuppers and downspouts to be sure they are free of debris and are flowing like they should. You may want to think about a hail guard to help protect HVAC equipment if needed. Even if severe weather isn’t normal in your area, it’s still a good idea to routinely make sure structures are in top-notch shape just in case. And remember to check overhanging trees, too.

Related reading: Don’t get caught on a limb: 3 things to know about tree coverage for businesses

Look for items that need to be secured in place or moved inside when storms are brewing, like outdoor stock, garbage cans or anything else that can be safely moved or weighed down to reduce the chance of blowing away. Remember to move vehicles inside if you can or to higher ground if there’s a threat of flooding. Speaking of floods, consider moving valuables from the lower level to the upper level if flooding is a risk. Check on your sump pump while you’re thinking about water.

3. Remember the generator.
Power failure is all too common during and after a hurricane or other severe storm. You may want to look into renting a generator for a monthly fee or investing in a permanent option. If you do end up with a generator, be sure to test and maintain it, and have a fresh fuel supply safely accessible.

UFG Risk Control is here to help.

This is just a sample of the ways you can get ahead of unpredictable weather. A little preparedness can make a big difference. For more information on storm and hurricane preparedness, you might appreciate these resources from UFG Risk Control consultants.

• Why and how to prepare for severe convective storms.
• National Hurricane Preparedness Week tips.

UFG policyholders with risk control services can reach us at 800-828-2705 or by email at riskcontrol@unitedfiregroup.com for assistance with safety questions or concerns.