How to Prepare Your Business for a Winter Storm

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

When a severe winter storm rolls in, will you be ready?

As a business owner, you know that the key to success is preparation. When the next big winter storm hits Western New York, will you be prepared? Here are seven tips to make sure that you’re ready.

1. Keep employees and customers updated.

If you have to close your store due to winter weather, make an effort to tell both employees and customers in as many ways as possible. At the very least, you should call your employees with updates and post on social media for your customers.

2. Take care of your sidewalks.

Don’t forget to salt the sidewalks before it’s too late – you don’t want someone slipping and falling outside your building.

3. Invest in a generator.

It’s better to have a generator and not need it than to need one and not have it, especially if you have any refrigerators, walk-in coolers or food storage on-site.

4. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Bad storms do more than just bring ice, wind and snow – they can lead to all sorts of unexpected problems. Check the batteries on your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before any severe weather event, especially if you think there’s a chance you might break out the generator.

5. Prep and protect your building.

Even if you don’t own the building where your business resides, it doesn’t hurt to prep your space before a storm. Make a note of any drafty areas, cracks in the structure or areas where water is known to leak. Replace old weather stripping or ask your landlord to do so. Make sure everyone who enters your building wipes their feet on a floor mat. Every little bit counts!

6. Call early for snow and ice removal.

If you’re anticipating significant ice or snowfall, call a removal company before the first flake hits the ground. The faster you can get rid of snow and ice, the sooner you’ll be able to welcome customers in and stop worrying about potential slip-and-fall claims.

7. Create an emergency contact list.

Before the storm hits, program your emergency contacts in your phone for easy access. These contacts might include the local police, the fire department, the fire company, the hospital, your insurance providers, your plumber, your electrician, and of course, a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of The Southtowns.

While winter storms can be both dangerous and unpredictable, if you follow these seven tips, you’ll be prepared for whatever comes your way.