Question Of The Week: What Factors Into Hurricane Preparedness?

With the 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season officially begun, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety provides resources on preparing buildings and sites for fierce summer storms.

The 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season officially began on June 1, and the U.S. mainland has already experienced one named cyclone in what is expected to be a very active season which runs through November 30. Subtropical storm Alberto, which impacted areas from the Gulf Coast through the Midwest last week, is a strong reminder that now is the time for business owners to prepare for tropical storms, devastating hurricanes, and other severe summer weather, points out the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS).hurricane preparedness

IBHS offers guidance on how to strengthen buildings and sites in preparation for fierce summer storms. “Before the next storm strikes, take a walk around your property,” said Roy Wright, IBHS CEO and President. As part of this effort, Wright advises inspecting for loose shingles, siding, or fencing, in addition to trimming trees away from structures and clearing gutters and drains of debris so rain water can move away from buildings.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecast calls for 10 to 16 named storms, with five to nine hurricanes, this season. NOAA’s outlook indicated one to four hurricanes could become major (Category 3 or higher) with sustained winds in excess of 110 MPH. This follow’s 2017 extremely active season, which resulted in more than $200 billion in property losses across the U.S.

“Preparedness is the key to mitigating risks for everyone in hurricane-prone areas,” Wright added. “Protect your property through maintenance and monitoring, and with flood insurance if you live in an area prone to flooding. If you live or own property along any waterway, flood insurance is something you should strongly consider.” Wright also emphasized there is a 30-day waiting period for new flood insurance policies to become effective for homeowners and business owners after they are bound by your insurance carrier.

As part of the resources on hurricane preparedness offered by IBHS, the infographic shown here highlights 10 things to check on as the 2018 hurricane season begins.

What preparedness measures do you have in place for your facilities? Do the 10 shown in the infographic shown here match your list? What additional measures does your organization have in place? Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions in the Comments section below.