Severe storm safety tips and resources for businesses

Severe storms can bring significant wind, hail, rain and lightning, which may lead to property damage, power outages and flooding. A direct lightning hit can cause damage to electrical and non-electrical items, leading to outages and fires. We are here to help you get back to business should you need to file a claim.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the storm and keep your employees and property safe.
 

Prepare today

1. Have a plan in place - Develop a written business continuity plan that includes lightning and thunderstorm preparedness. Make sure employees know what to do if they see lighting or hear thunder.
2. Purchase a weather radio – Obtain a radio with local discrimination capability.
3. Stay alert - Sign up for and pay attention to weather alerts.
4. Back it up - Have emergency backup power lined up for your facility before you are faced with a weather hazard.
5. Check your coverage - Review your business insurance coverage.

To help avoid any future hail damage:

1. Inspect your roof  – Repair any problem areas.
2. Think impact-resistance – Select a hail impact-resistant roof for a new building or when re-roofing.
3. Protect electrical systems – Consider installing hail guards to protect HVAC systems or purchasing HVAC equipment with factory-installed hail guards.
4. Keep trees trimmed and maintained.
5. Clean your gutters – Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear to ensure water can efficiently drain from your roof.
    

If a storm is coming

1. Secure outdoor heating and cooling units, including HVAC, turbines and exhaust fans.
2. Move items inside (outdoor equipment, materials, furniture) as they may blow around during the storm and cause damage.
3. Park your fleet in a garage and take the keys with you to a secure location.
4. Remove items from the floor in case of flooding.
5. Take photographs so you have a pre-storm record of your property.

During the storm

1. Stay indoors – Keep away from windows and move to an interior room if possible. Wait to go outside until there is confirmation that the storm is no longer a threat to your area.
2. Find safe shelter (not under trees) if you are outside.
3. Remain in your vehicle if you are driving -  Pull over to a safe location if driving becomes difficult.
4. Listen to weather updates - Have a battery-operated radio handy in the event of a power outage.
5. Avoid using electric appliances.
6. Wait to go outside – Remain inside until there is confirmation that the storm has passed by your area.

After the storm

• If there is flooding: 
  • Clean up pools of water
  • Dry damp areas to prevent mold and mildew.
  • Move damp items outdoors when safe to prevent mold growth.
  • Move items away from damp areas.

Be sure to notify our claims team immediately if there is damage and protect the property while mitigating any future risk.

Weather resource center