Hurricane preparation and safety tips for businesses

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Hurricane preparation and safety tips for businesses

Fast facts

5 of the 10 costliest hurricanes in U.S. history took place between 2017-2021. (iii link)

The average for the Atlantic hurricane season is 14 named storms and 7 hurricanes (NOAA link)

Prepare today

Have a plan in place - Develop a written business continuity plan that includes hurricane preparedness.

Make sure employees know what to do if a storm is coming.

Stay alert - Sign up for and pay attention to weather alerts.

Back it up - Have emergency backup power lined up for your facility before a storm is forecast.

Check your coverage - Review your business insurance coverage.

Buy flood insurance if there is a possibility for flooding in your area or if you could be affected by a storm surge.

Plan for storage - If your facility is in a low-lying area, plan for alternative storage sites at a higher elevation where equipment, files, and vehicles can be moved prior to a storm.

Assess security needs - Depending on the type of business you run you may need additional security at the site following a storm.

If a storm is coming

Batten down the hatches – Install hurricane shutters, panels or shields.

Cover windows and doors with fitted plywood sheets.

Keep employees informed – Create an up-to-date contact list for all employees to relay business and safety updates.

Cover and move it up - Put heavy plastic over all computers, printers and phones. Place all paperwork and files in a secure location above ground level to avoid water damage.

Create a backup – Back up data off site in case there is damage to computer systems and files.

Shut it off - If you know how to do it safely and if recommended, shut off gas to the building and make sure outdoor HVAC, turbines and exhaust fans are secured. Contact a professional if assistance is needed.

Move or relocate – Put items inside (outdoor equipment, materials, furniture) as they may blow around during the storm and cause damage.

Park your fleet in a garage - Take the keys with you to a secure location.

Set up remote cameras and water sensors (if time allows) – Safely monitor your business when you are not there.

During the storm

Stay inside - Remain indoors until it is safe to go outside. Move to an interior room if possible.

Listen to weather updates - Have a battery-operated radio handy in the event of a power outage.

After the storm

Reconnect with employees - Make sure your employees are accounted for and safe.

Access and document damage – Take photos and video of any damage you can safely access prior to clean up. Save all receipts.

Call your insurance agent as soon as possible to start a claim.

How to report a claim

Online at www.hanover.com

By phone: 800-628-0250

By mobile app: Hanover mobile

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.