By Jana Coyle, Business Development Manager, Brandpoint Services, Inc.
Being prepared when inclement weather approaches will minimize damage and reduce costly repairs. Although each location and building has its own unique circumstances, here are a few basic steps you can take to protect your facility.
Prepare location months ahead of inclement weather:
Clean gutters so snow, ice, rain can drain from the roof.
Inspect the roof for possible leaks or weakness. Ensure equipment is properly secured.
Clear low hanging limbs away from roofline and building.
Complete preventive maintenance on HVAC System.
Weatherstrip all doors and windows.
Verify an extra set of keys are available for each lock.
Clean area around the electric panel.
Locate water shut-off valves.
Install drain guard in floor drains to prevent sewage back up during the flood.
Verify all alarms are in working order (security, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide).
Have adequate supplies on hand:
Plywood
Plastic tarp
Rock salt
Flashlight
Thumb drives
Pipe insulation
Sandbags
Drain covers
Snow shovel
Batteries
Plastic baggies
Battery radio
Two days prior to Snow/Freeze event:
Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.
Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow heat to circulate.
Have water dripping from faucets to prevent freeze.
Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Have rock salt, sand, or kitty litter readily available to put down on walkways.
Remove, drain and store hoses used outside.
Cover outside water outlets with insulated caps.
Make certain the thermostat is set above 55 degrees if leaving the facility.
If using a generator, make certain it is properly ventilated and has sufficient fuel supply.
Designate chain of command for staff and verify all have proper access to the facility.
Deposit cash in the bank or properly secure in safe.
Advise maintenance provider of possible shut down.
Two days prior to Hurricane/Flood event:
Bring inside any items that can be blown or washed away.
Secure any outdoor signage.
Close and lock all windows and doors.
Board up windows and doors.
Clean out the refrigerator of food that could spoil during a power outage.
Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
Ensure battery-operated flashlight and radio is operational.
Sandbag any area that is subject to flooding.
Relocate any valuable or fragile items.
Secure electronic (computers, cash registers, etc) with straps and cover with plastic.
Backup documents (seal in waterproof containers).
Deposit cash in the bank or properly secure in safe.
Collect contact information for contacts that are critical to business operations.
Designate chain of command and verify all have proper access to the facility (locks, alarms, etc).
Advise maintenance provider of possible floods/shut down.
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