Severe winter weather in Arkansas can pose significant challenges for businesses, especially concerning frozen pipes, blackouts, and snow or ice build-up. Preparing your business property beforehand is crucial to mitigate potential damages. Below is a great infographic about "Staying Ahead of Severe Winter Weather" for your business:
Here are essential tips from Boone Ritter Insurance to safeguard your Arkansas business/commercial property during severe winter weather:
Insulate Your Pipes: Prevent Frozen Pipes Frozen pipes are a common winter woe. Insulate exposed pipes throughout your property, especially in vulnerable areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Insulation helps maintain the pipes' temperature, preventing freezing and potential bursts, which can cause extensive damage.
Regular Maintenance: Ensure Proper Heating Prioritize routine maintenance of your heating system. Before winter sets in, have a professional inspect your heating units, furnaces, and boilers to ensure they are in optimal condition. Adequate heating minimizes the risk of freezing and keeps your property comfortably warm.
Plan for Blackouts: Backup Power Solutions Prepare for potential power outages by investing in backup power solutions like generators. Backup power sources can keep essential systems running during blackouts, ensuring continued operation and preventing disruptions to your business.
Snow and Ice Removal: Clear Pathways Develop a plan for snow and ice removal from walkways, driveways, and parking areas. Hire a reliable service or allocate staff to promptly remove snow and ice, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring safe access to your business property.
Roof Inspection: Prevent Snow Build-Up Inspect your property's roof for any vulnerabilities or potential snow build-up areas. Clear debris and ensure proper drainage to prevent excessive snow accumulation, reducing the risk of roof damage due to excess weight.
Emergency Preparedness: Stock Essential Supplies Maintain an emergency kit stocked with essentials like flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and non-perishable food items. Additionally, keep necessary contact information for utility providers and emergency services readily available.
Employee Communication: Keep Everyone Informed Establish clear communication channels to keep employees informed about weather-related updates, office closures, or alternative work arrangements in case of severe weather conditions.
Insurance Review: Ensure Adequate Coverage Review your business insurance policy, especially provisions related to severe weather events. Ensure that your coverage adequately protects against potential damages caused by severe winter weather.
By proactively implementing these tips, Arkansas businesses can better prepare and safeguard their properties against the challenges posed by severe winter weather. Taking these steps can mitigate risks, minimize potential damages, and ensure continuity in business operations even during the harshest winter conditions.