August 3, 2020
Despite the many challenges 2020 has brought so far, we have one more thing to contend with – it’s hurricane season! As Hurricane Isaias (ees-ah-EE-ahs) works its way up the East Coast and fast approaches Raleigh-Durham, we wanted to remind you of a few key safety measures to protect your employees and commercial buildings during hurricane season.
COVID circumstances make hurricane prep at offices and other commercial buildings a little more complicated this time around, especially if your employees have not returned to working in the office yet. If you have not done the following and can still do so safely, here are a couple of things to keep in mind before the storm hits:
- Review your insurance policy. Make sure you have the contact information for your insurance representative and your property manager in case of damage.
- Make sure all handrails and stairwells are safe to use. Locate all non-slip mats and caution signs around your building to use in case of slippery conditions in the office.
- Back up all electronics in your buildings so you do not lose important files. After backing them up, make sure to unplug all electronics (except for refrigerator).
- Move all desks and other furniture away from the windows. Raise any valuable items off the floor.
- Make sure a representative from your company checks your office when it is safe to do so over the course of the next few days to check for possible flooding or other damage from the wind and rain.
In the case of flooding or other water damage in a commercial building, keep the following in mind:
- If possible, identify the source of the flooding.
- Call your landlord and insurance representative.
- Determine the safety of the area before continuing to assess and mitigate the damage.
- Be careful around any electrical items that may have gotten wet–when in doubt stay AWAY!
- Be careful around any areas that we exposed to standing water, especially flooring and stairs.
- Notify your insurance agent or Risk Manager to determine your policy and next steps.
Stay safe out there this hurricane season!
