Be Ready – Winter Storms
It’s Time to Winterize Your Business
Now is the time to take preventative measures and prepare your business for the harsh weather to come - and limit your personal and financial risk. Winter weather can lead to a myriad of problems for your business. The most common and costly insurance claims that result from winter weather include:
Water leaks
Wind damage
Hail damage
Frozen pipes
Roof damage from ice and snow
Begin by having your HVAC company perform an inspection and tune-up of your heating system now before the real cold weather sets-in. The most difficult time to deal with a furnace or boiler malfunction is when it’s cold and everyone else is having problems too.
Inspect all pipes and ensure that they are well insulated and there are no leaks. If you spot any signs of trouble – contact your plumber immediately.
Insulate outside pipes and seal the areas where pipes enter and exit the building to reduce the risk of freezing risks – while also reducing heating costs.
Up on the Roof
The roof is the most exposed part of the building. Blistering summer heat, frigid cold, rain and winds eventually compromise the structural integrity of flat and sloped rooftops alike—quickly leading to problems throughout the premises.
To prevent the need for catastrophic repairs, which always seem to occur when they are the most costly and disruptive, a regular annual inspection is highly recommended.
If you can easily access the rooftop and it is relatively flat and safe, you may be able to inspect it yourself and perform any necessary preventive maintenance. Otherwise, use professionals who are properly trained.
Make sure that any trees that surround your property are healthy and well-pruned.
Trees & Powerlines
Make sure that any trees that surround your property are healthy and well-pruned. Falling branches and trees can cause serious injury while also disrupting power and physical access to your business.
Take proactive steps now to eliminate potential problems. If trees are on city property (which many often are) notify your local authorities of any overhanging branches, branches in contact with powerlines, dead or unhealthy looking trees. It is often their responsibility to take corrective action.
Windows & Doors
Inspect all windows and doors to ensure that they are functioning properly and close and seal tightly and securely. Check for cracks, breaks or any defects that could lead to bigger problems when storms hit and temperatures dip.
Slip Sliding Away
The States with the Highest Slip and Fall Insurance Claims include:
Indiana
Wisconsin
Michigan
Illinois
Minnesota
During the winter, walkways, parking lots, steps and stairways, become slip and fall hazards that can cause serious injury and pose an expensive legal claim should an incident occur.
To prevent injuries and protect your business, you should be prepared to remove snow as soon as possible and treat sidewalks, walkways, etc., for ice and standing water. Here are some essentials to have available for your action plan.
Snow Shovels
Salt Pellets and Sand
Non-Slip Door & Floor Mats (for inside and outside business)
Warning Signs
Flashlights
Hats, Gloves
Space Heaters (Used only during business hours)
Also note that slips and falls can inside your business. Customers entering your lobby with wet shoes and clothes can create hazards for themselves as well as your staff and other customers.
During periods of snow, ice, rain, etc. you must continuously maintain a safe and dry environment for everyone that enters your business. Assign the responsibility to a dependable person to keep all floors clean and dry. This includes lobby and common areas, tanning and spa treatment rooms, bathrooms, vanity areas, etc.
Download safety check list below
PREPARATIONS
Actions to Take Before the Storm
DRIVING
Winter Driving Tips