Proper Planning Before the Storm

Much was made in the media about the National Hurricane Center’s lower-than-average prediction for the number of hurricanes in 2015. So far their predictions have proven accurate. However, in 1992 Hurricane Andrew devastated south Florida in a year with only seven named storms. It only takes one storm to cause major damage and destruction. Hurricane Danny became the first hurricane and subsequently the first major hurricane of the 2015 season. Danny encountered significant sheer as it crossed the Leeward Islands last weekend, weakened to a tropical storm, and eventually dissipated. On Danny's heels, Erika became a Tropical storm this week and will likely become the second hurricane of the season as it passes just north of Hispaniola and heads toward Florida's Atlantic coast.

Revisit Your Hurricane Plan

Though Erika may seem like a blip way out in the Atlantic Ocean, this is a good time to revisit your hurricane plan. Successful recovery begins before the storm even hits. Take this opportunity to identify time sensitive or critical business functions and develop a list of resources that support them. Check in with providers regarding their response plans and see whether you need to make adjustments to their ability to serve your business. Should a storm make landfall in our area, it is a good idea to have a pre-storm/post-storm checklist. According to the National Hurricane Center, good documentation is a vital part of the pre-storm planning process.

Pre-Storm and Post-Storm Checklists

Before the storm make sure you are:

• Taking pre-storm photos and/or videos and lists of your inventory. This is a tremendous help to everyone involved in the recovery process.
• Making copies of important documents and add them to your emergency kit. Also, make sure important computer files are saved to the cloud or on another off-site computer.
• Covering windows, reinforcing garage doors and securing outdoor objects such as furniture, decorations and garbage cans will help minimize damage when the storm comes.
• Examining your insurance policies and know the extent of your coverage.
• Keeping your landscape wind resistant with good pruning methods. Clearing gutters and downspouts are two ways to minimize wind and water damage.
• Turning off electricity, water, and gas as you leave, should you need to evacuate. This should help to minimize damage and preserve your property.
• Keeping up with how much your property and goods are worth.

After the storm you should:

• Take post-storm photos as soon as it is safe to enter your property. These are invaluable to insurance adjustors when surveying your property and its losses.
• Make sure your documentation is secure and accessible.
• Remember that the process will be lengthy and try not to become discouraged.

Remtech Environmental has the ability to handle any sized disaster and can help you when planning the appropriate response. A pre-event contract with Remtech moves you to the top of the response list at a fixed, pre-approved price. Our response begins as soon as it's safe and an immediate response minimizes damage, prevents mold growth, and gets you back to generating revenue as soon as possible.