Tips on Preparing a Small Business for a Winter Storm

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

Create a business continuity plan

If you own a business in a northern state, you need to prepare for the inevitable snow storm. Closing the business means lost revenues so you want to keep it running if possible, but you also want to ensure that your employees stay safe. It is important to have a plan in place so that when bad weather arrives you and your workers are prepared.

Winterize Your Building in Advance

Before winter arrives, prepare your building for the cold weather.

• Drain the water from the underground sprinkling system.
• Inspect the roof of the building for any damage and repair any issues.
• Remove dirt and debris from rain gutters and roof drains.
• Trim all trees around the building so that branches can’t fall on the building if they become loaded with ice or snow.
• Seal any gaps on the exterior of the building.
• Plan ahead for snow removal services for the parking lot and make sure you have plenty of ice melt or sand on hand to keep walkways free of ice.
  
  

Create a Business Continuity Plan

Identify any potential risks to your business, including those risks pertaining to a snow storm. Such issues as a pipe burst due to frozen pipes or loss of heat and electricity must be identified.
Evaluate the costs involved with each risk, such as business interruptions or damage to the property.
Evaluate the ways in which your team will be able to mitigate each risk. Investing in a generator, for example, can protect the business from costly repairs.

Develop a Communication Plan

If you need to shut down operations, you must have a plan for contacting employees, vendors, and contractors. Keep a current listing of phone numbers and email addresses and devise an alert system for notification. Make sure you train your employees on all emergency procedures.
Snow storms can’t be avoided if you live in Vickery Meadows, TX, but being prepared will help to protect your employees and your business.