Hi there, and welcome back to our blog. In our recent posts, we began looking at some of the ways commercial property and business owners can prepare their businesses and properties for a hurricane. Hurricane Irma is expected to make landfall this weekend, and as business owners across Florida continue preparing their companies and facilities for the storm, these tips may be helpful for those in the path of the storm and in the surrounding areas take additional steps to protect their businesses. We recommend reading part one and part two to learn some of the important steps to protecting a business and property. Having emergency plans in place and being prepared is the best way to protect a business and commercial property and, in today’s post, we will discuss a few more steps to preparing a business for a hurricane. Continue reading below to learn more.

Coordination is Key

Make sure to remain in communication with your employees in the days leading up to the storm to ensure that everyone understands their role in either keeping a business operational or helping to protect a business. Coordinate with other businesses in your industry so that you have an idea of their response plans; share ideas and support each other whenever possible. Research the response plans of local law enforcement, your private security team, and other emergency responders, to gain an understanding of how they may respond should you have an emergency situation.

Protect Your Data

Businesses rely on their data and information technology to remain competitive in today’s business society, so it is of the utmost importance to protect any and all data. Perform backups in a timely manner, and make sure that all paper documents are safely stored in waterproof and fireproof containers, if possible. Data can then be transferred easily and safely to a new location should a business be forced from their facility.

Stock Emergency Supplies

Prepare your place of business for a “shelter-in-place” scenario should you, your employees, or clients be forced to remain in the safety of your building. Stock plenty of water, a radio, batteries, flashlights, blankets, nonperishable food, and of course, first-aid kits to help ensure everyone’s safety. Stay away from windows and doors taking cover in an interior room or rooms in your facility.

These steps may come in handy as you prepare your business and commercial property before Hurricane Irma makes landfall this weekend. At Forerunner Insurance Group, we place the safety and wellbeing of our clients above all else by striving to provide Florida business owners with the best commercial property insurance to safeguard their business. Please contact us if you have questions about your policy before the brunt of the storm hits, and know that we will be there to help during the recovery and rebuilding effort. Our thoughts are with all of those who may be impacted by Irma. Please check back for more helpful advice relating to hurricane recovery and restoration once the storm passes. Please stay safe out there.