How to Prepare Your Business for Severe Winter Weather

Fall is here, and winter is near. When the forecast begins to change from rain to sleet and snow, it is important to protect your business and employees from extreme weather events. According to the Center for Food Security and Public Health, there are a number of precautions you can take to prepare for extreme winter weather. Here are a few ways to prepare before the winter storms begin to hit.

Stay Informed

Monitor for severe weather at the NOAA.

Know the Difference in Terminology

In order to prepare appropriately for a winter storm, you need to understand the terminology.

• Winter Storm Watch – Severe condition, such as heavy snow and/or ice are possible in the next 12 to 36 hours. Prepare now.
• Winter Storm Warning – Severe winter conditions are expected in the next 12 to 24 hours; 4 to 6 inches of snow or sleet, or 1/4 inch or more of ice is expected. Seek shelter.
• Blizzard Warning – Snow and strong winds with gusts up to 35+ mph. Can produce blinding snow, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill that is expected to occur for 3+ hours.

Stock Up on Essentials

You should stock up on emergency resources, if possible. Consider purchasing a standby electric generator for emergency power, etc.

Have a Business Emergency or Continuity Plan

Be prepared for power outages. Determine any essential equipment or processes that relay on electrical power and have emergency power. Maintain an inventory of all equipment and assets for your business in the event of structural damage. Install surge protectors to protect electronic equipment.

Determine a Back-Up Heating Source

Only use heating sources in well-ventilated rooms to avoid build up of lethal carbon monoxide gas. Do not forget to have a fire extinguisher on hand.

System4 is well-positioned to support your business with Preventative Maintenance and Repair and Maintenance Service Providers who are experienced, and knowledgeable in winter preparation. Having a game plan in place before the severe weather occurs will allow your business to continue operating more efficiently and reduce overall costs.

Contact us today to learn more about the System4 Advantage.