It’s summer and summer means hurricanes; let’s talk about your office or your business. Just like your home, there are steps to take to minimize your chance of loss. The business community should be aware of the potential of hurricane damage in the Commonwealth. Each business owner should prepare or review their own Preparedness and Recovery Plan…. ‘Business as usual’ will not happen without good planning.
- Review your property insurance with us or your insurance agent. Take photographs or make a video of your business establishment, both inside and outside.
- Make plans for protection of your computer files. Remove your Backups off-site. Take a complete copy of your backup tapes with you off-site tonight when you leave.
- Protect corporate records, keeping duplicates at an alternate location.
- Acquire emergency protective equipment and supplies. Heavy plastic sheeting, duct tape, sandbags, emergency generator, chain saw and large pieces of plywood will help protect your property.
- Bring in display racks and other objects, such as trashcans that might cause damage if airborne. Remove outdoor signs, especially those that swing or are portable.
- Move merchandise, equipment or furniture away from windows or skylights. Elevate boxes or equipment off the floor, if possible.
- Turn off electricity and disconnect all electrical appliances and equipment (except for refrigeration equipment), in case there is a power outage. An ensuing power surge could be damaging to connected equipment.
- Inform all employees on when and how you will notify them to report back to work. Develop an employee identification system, such as picture ID badges. This may help employees gain access to the area after a hurricane. If possible, make arrangements to pay employees in cash. It may be several days before banking institutions are operational.If you have any questions regarding your commercial policy, please feel free to contact one of our agents in our office 978-474-0810
- For more information on safety tips: Mass.Gov
