Hurricane Ian caused an estimated $70 billion ranking it as one of if not the costliest storms ever to impact Florida. Hitting the state as a Category 4 storm, Hurricane Ian struck areas like Lee County Florida, Sanibel Island, and Pine Island before making its way across central and northeast Florida. The death toll reached triple digits in early October, making the storm another unfortunate contender as one of the state’s deadliest hurricanes in nearly a century. As we can see, weather events can be unpredictable. That’s why being prepared for severe weather can make a difference in protecting your business.
Emergency Preparedness Plan
When you have an emergency plan for your business, you have a better chance of minimizing any impact on your business. Fortunately, hurricanes can be tracked. Projections can give you an idea of where the storm may be headed. However, a few days of advance notice may be needed to implement your plan.
Steps for Hurricane Preparedness
Spend time mapping out a plan for your business. This plan should cover what you do before, during, and after a hurricane.
Before the Storm
- Stay up-to-date with the latest information from local meteorologists and the National Weather Service
- Select a place where you can restart business operations if the main office building is no longer an option
- Update all employee contact information (email, address, and phone number)
- Back up all servers and important information
During the Storm
- Stay in your safe space until it’s abundantly clear that it’s okay to move
After the Storm
- Stay in touch with your employees and make sure they are okay
- Prepare your company to restart operations
- Guide your workers to helpful resources they may need
Other Helpful Tips
- Create new routes for drivers that are scheduled for trips that may direct them in the storm’s path
- Make sure work vehicles have a full tank of gas or diesel
- Move company vehicles to a safe space (usually away from trees or powerlines and on higher ground)
- Inspect company vehicles
- Encourage your workers to drive slowly and carefully. They should also allow for extra time to reach their destinations
Additional Reminders for Extreme Weather Preparedness
We know that severe weather events are not just limited to hurricanes. Planning should happen for any extreme weather event, including heavy rainfall or flooding. In instances like this, drivers should take certain precautions:
- Drive with headlights on so that you have better visibility of what’s in front of you
- Know that braking could make a vehicle hydroplane
- Create distance between your vehicle and other vehicles on the road
- Never drive through standing water. There’s no indication of how deep the water is or whether the road is cracked or damaged underneath
- Be on the lookout for downed power lines
Keeping You Safe From the Storm
KF&B Program Managers + Insurance Services is here for your insurance needs. We offer the coverage options you will need to protect your business before, during, and after a storm. Our list of insurance options spans charter buses, limousines, and much more. Check out our website to see a complete list of insurance options that will benefit your business.
