If you own a commercial building, then it is important to prepare it for any type of weather. Whether you want to keep it operational during snow, rain, or a power outage due to severe storms or hurricanes, it’s important to have the necessary equipment such as power generators or portable AC units readily available to keep your business functioning. The following are 5 tips to help you go about preparing your building for these circumstances.
- Do Your Research – Research the weather in your area to figure out what kind of damage can be done to your building. Invest in risk assessment software to get an estimate on how much damage, both physical and financial, your building could incur under such circumstances.
- Assess Your Building's Surroundings - Check the surrounding area around your building to see if the landscape makes your building more susceptible to severe weather. For instance: If the area is known for having tornadoes, you should check around the building for possible objects that could be tossed into your building by heavy winds. If your area is susceptible to flooding, check to see if there are any large bodies of water nearby, or whether or not your building is located on a hill or in a valley.
- Protect Your Building - Now that you know where your building's weak spots are, you can help strengthen it. Have any large trees near your building that could pose a threat during a tornado? Have them removed. Invest in storm panels, roll-up shutters, aluminum awnings and other reinforcements to protect the windows in your building. Use water proof coatings on the exterior of your building in order to prevent flood damage. Make sure your emergency exits are clearly marked. Install a backup generator in the building in the event of a power outage. A portable heater or air conditioner unit can help improve comfort if the power goes out as well.
- Have a Plan - Have an evacuation plan in place that everyone in your building knows. Practicing this plan is a good idea. Make sure there's plenty of first-aid kits available as well. You should have a plan in place too if your building is damaged.
- Remain Alert - Have someone in your building be designated to keeping track of weather conditions. You don't want to get caught off guard in the middle of a severe storm.
Follow these tips to fully prepare your commercial building in the event of serious weather. Although safety comes first, don't forget about comfort either. Having a portable AC unit or portable heater in the building will help keep everyone comfortable if the power goes out.
Jillian Johnson is a professional marketing content writer who blogs on a variety of topics. Follow her @MissWritey.
