It’s officially hurricane season, and storms are expected to break records this year. With an above-average season predicted, Florida may receive a major storm. We can’t prevent hurricanes, but preparing for a storm can go a long way and mitigate potential damage. If you’re wondering how to prepare for hurricane season, you’ve come to the right place. Hurricane preparedness looks different for business leaders who must consider team members’ safety and their property’s security while navigating storm season.
Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
Create An Emergency Kit
One of the most crucial things to do before a hurricane hits is to create an emergency kit. This kit should include non-perishable food and water, medications, important documents, flashlights and batteries, and a first aid kit. You should ensure that the kit is somewhere easily reachable so you can access it quickly if a storm comes. If you wait too late to assemble one, you risk retailers selling out of the necessary supplies.
Secure Your Building
Physically securing your property to reduce wind and water damage is another must. You can install hurricane shutters if your building doesn’t already have them; these protect against wind and debris. You can also upgrade to impact-resistant windows to lessen the damage that a storm can do to your building. In the days leading up to a storm, you should clean your gutters and trim trees to reduce the risk of debris impacting your office.
Generate An Evacuation Plan
You should know whether your building is located in an evacuation zone. Generally, the closer you are to water, the more likely you’ll need to evacuate if a storm is on the way. If you’re based in Florida, you can use the Florida Division of Emergency Management Know Your Zone map to determine whether your building is in a vulnerable location. If it is, it’s essential to have a plan to keep you and your employees safe.
Formulate A Security Strategy
Creating a security strategy is your most important step as a business leader. Installing security cameras and investing in a 24/7 monitoring service will reduce the risk of someone breaking into your property after a hurricane. Visible security cameras alone make your building 300% less likely to experience a burglary. You should also hire a security firm to help formulate the best plan.
Integrated Security Consultants is a Tampa Bay-based business that proudly specializes in Integrity, Solutions, and Customer Service. Our team installs security cameras, alarms, fire suppression systems, access control, and more. Contact us today at 813-254-0033 or through our online form to create a hurricane security plan that works for you.