The winter season is just starting. Many businesses are getting ready to safeguard their properties. They want to be sure they don’t face any hazards that can get expensive, cause losses, and lead to reputational damage.
Recommended preventative measures can help keep your company safe.
The Problem: Power Outages
Power outages are common during the winter. Storms can make the power go out shutting down technology and machinery. Businesses can lose days of productivity.
The Solution: Back-Up Systems
Businesses should be ready to pivot quickly when the power goes down. Consider adding solar panels or using generators as an alternate source of energy. Companies with remote and hybrid workspaces may be able to stay active if outages do not occur in off-site areas.
The Problem: Slips, Falls, and Accidents
Winter brings its share of hazardous weather. People are more likely to slip and fall due to the ice and moisture. If falls occur in your parking lot or inside your business, you could face legal action or suffer reputational damage.
Car accidents in the parking lot are another common problem.
The Solution: Getting Rid of Ice and Moisture
Companies must be ready to deal with icy areas. They should have plenty of salt, and shoveling teams should be prepared to mobilize. Teams inside stores should place ‘wet floor’ signs and mop up puddles.
The Problem: Property Damage Due to Storms
Winter storms cause their share of property damage. Broken windows, leaky roofs, and damaged structures are just some examples of the damage storms can cause. Property damage can also lead to injuries if not dealt with.
The Solution: Preparing Your Property for Storms
Preparing your property for storms is a multi-step process that includes the following:
- Monitor Ice Dams on Roofs: Ice dams occur when layers of snow and ice build up on the roof’s eaves and guttering. The build-up prevents water from running off the roof. As a result, water can get into the walls causing structural damage. You can help prevent dams by using a rake to remove snow from your roof after a snowfall. Consider installing a water-repellent membrane on your roof to prevent water from seeping in.
- Prevent Pipes from Freezing: Pipes often freeze and burst during the winter. Insulate your pipes to prevent freezing. If a pipe becomes frozen, thaw it out with hot water bottles or a towel soaked in warm water.
- Clear Away Branches: Cut away branches that hang over your property. They could break off in a storm and damage your guttering and roof.
The Problem: High Heating Bills
Energy costs can really add up during the winter months. High heating bills can be a significant concern for businesses, especially during the colder months. These increased costs can impact the bottom line, making it essential for businesses to find ways to manage and reduce energy consumption. Heating systems can also fail leading to uncomfortable or unsafe work environments.
The Solution: Insulate and Have Systems Checked
Insulation will keep warm air inside your space ensuring you don’t use more energy than you need. You should also have your system checked before winter kicks in to ensure it’s running efficiently.
The Problem: A Winter Storm Makes Commuting Difficult or Impossible
A winter storm can shut down roads making it hard for customers and employees to come to your location. You can lose productivity. But what happens if people are trapped inside your building due to storm conditions?
The Solution: Be Ready for an Emergency
Get ready for an emergency by storing canned food, blankets, and generators. Preparing for the worst can allow you to provide a safe environment for workers and customers.
Make Sure Your Insurance is In Place
Insurance is not a cure-all solution, but it can cover damages if many of these issues occur. It can cover property damage and certain injuries. Insurance can also protect you from losing money in some lawsuits.
Make sure your insurance is in place before the season starts. Review your policy and confirm that it protects you when relevant damage occurs. Talk to your agent to see if updates are required given the increasing frequency of storm conditions.
If you aren’t insured for certain exposures or feel your insurance needs an update, contact your insurance agent. To find an Acadia agent near you, go to https://www.acadiainsurance.com/find-an-agent/.
There for You: Acadia Insurance
At Acadia, we’re all about helping businesses throughout the Northeast thrive. Our mission is to provide superior service and products as close to you as possible, providing you with the coverage you need to proceed with confidence.
We understand what you want most from your insurance is security and peace of mind. That means knowing you are working with an insurance provider who will support you every step of the way to help you protect your business.
With Acadia, not only can you get coverage tailored to your needs, but you will also receive support from dedicated claims professionals to guide you through the claim process in the event of a loss. That way, you know exactly what to expect. Knowing your claims professional by name and a handshake – that’s “Closer Coverage”. Get to know more about how we work and find an agent near you by going to the Find an Agent section on our public website (www.acadiainsurance.com).
Acadia is pleased to share this material for the benefit of its customers. Please note, however, that nothing herein should be construed as either legal advice or the provision of professional consulting services. This material is for informational purposes only, and while reasonable care has been utilized in compiling this information, no warranty or representation is made as to accuracy or completeness. Recipients of this material must utilize their own judgment in implementing sound risk management practices and procedures.
