Prepartion Key to Weathering High Winds

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Key Tips and be ready for Storm and High Winds.

Business owners in Colorado Springs, CO, know what the aftermath of hurricane damage looks like. Although it may not be possible to avoid damage, being prepared before the storm hits is essential to protecting a business and its employees. That protection comes in the form of structural maintenance and a procedural plan to minimize downtime and keep employees safe.

5 Tips to Reinforce a Property

High winds may easily cause downed trees and power lines, as well as the potential for flying debris to break windows and cause other issues. Below are five ways to prepare the structure to better handle the storm.

Keep Trees Trimmed:

Falling branches are one of the most common causes of damage. Ensure that no branches are hanging over the roof or close enough to break a window. Any trees with hollows or other issues should be inspected by an arborist to ensure they are safe.

Choose Proper Landscaping:

Although rocks may add a pleasing aesthetic, they may become airborne during severe weather. There are many varieties of mulch that help spruce up the property while being less prone to causing damage.

Regularly Inspect the Roof:

This protective layer deals with a lot. Over time, a missing shingle or crack may easily become a big problem. To mitigate hurricane damage, have a professional roof inspector check it for any issues. That includes ensuring seals around vents or skylights are secure. As the owner, regularly complete a visual inspection for signs of trouble or debris on the roof.

Check Window and Door Seals and Hardware:

Any cracks or crevices give strong winds and rain an easy path to enter the business. Verify that all windows are sealed tightly and that door hardware is secure and braced to handle the weather.

Secure Outdoor Equipment, Structures:

Any additional structures or equipment on the property, such as a shed or dumpster, should be securely anchored. If the business has any vehicles, it is best to park them in a garage. If that is not possible, inspect the surroundings for potential items that could cause damage.

Have a Business Disaster Planin Place

Along with securing the property, how the business operates also needs to be secured. Creating a disaster plan is essential to minimize a business interruption, ensure employees and vendors know what to do, identify areas of potential risk, and protect assets. This plan should include a detailed outline of vital business operations, as well as procedures to follow during an unexpected event. A business should also keep data backed up at an off-site location or the cloud.

Delegate safety protocols to specific employees to help better ensure that things will run more smoothly during the chaos. Additionally, it is recommended to ensure there are extra supplies available during an emergency, such as batteries, first-aid kits, water and food.

While hurricane damage may be unavoidable, there are ways to secure your business to minimize the aftermath. Along with regular maintenance and staying on top of any repairs, have a detailed plan in place to handle the impending weather event.