Hurricane Season Reminders

The 2025 hurricane season is upon us, marking another period of heightened vigilance for commercial property owners. Given the unpredictability of hurricanes and the historical data from the 2024 season, which saw 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes, preparation is more critical than ever. With the Atlantic hurricane season running from June 1 to November 30 and peak activity between mid-August and mid-October, now is the time to prepare. Thoughtful preparation can mitigate financial losses, minimize operational downtime, and safeguard employee safety.

Secure the Building

Start by reinforcing the structural integrity of your building. Inspect roofs, windows, and doors to ensure they can withstand high winds and flying debris. Consider installing storm shutters or using impact-resistant glass for added protection against the elements.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

A comprehensive review of your insurance policy is essential. Verify that it includes coverage specific to hurricane-related damages. Many standard policies do not cover flood damage, so you might need a separate flood insurance policy to ensure complete protection.

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

An effective business continuity plan is vital to keeping operations functional during crises. This plan should include strategies for maintaining communication with employees, ensuring data backups, and providing alternative work arrangements if necessary.

Maintain Landscaping

Regularly trim trees and eliminate any loose debris around your property. These seemingly harmless items can become dangerous projectiles during strong winds and cause significant damage to your building.

Backup Power Supply

Invest in backup generators or alternative power sources to maintain critical operations during power outages. This investment can keep your business operational when the main power supply is compromised.

Protect Documents and Equipment

Store essential documents and valuable equipment in waterproof containers. Protecting these items ensures that you don’t lose vital information or assets due to water damage.

Prepare Your Employees

Employee preparedness is as crucial as property preparation. Educate your staff about hurricane procedures, evacuation routes, emergency contact information, and safety protocols to ensure everyone knows what to do and where to go in the event of an emergency.

By taking these proactive measures, business owners can significantly mitigate the impact of hurricanes on their operations, protect their assets, and ensure a quicker recovery post-disaster. Early preparation is key to minimizing damage and fostering resilience in the face of nature’s unpredictability.