4 Things to Ask Yourself In Case of a Weather Emergency

Not only are you responsible for your family, but you are also responsible for your employees.  Are they safe?  Will they have a job to return to?  How will the weather emergency affect company operations?  How soon can we be up and running?  These are all questions many business owners ask themselves during a high state of emergency.

Are You Aware of All the Hazards Associated with Weather Emergencies?

• Collapsed walls and buildings
• Injured or trapped people
• Impassable bridges and roads
• Downed power and telecommunication lines
• Utilities out of order
• Broken windows
• Water damage
• Outside items blown or washed away
• Extreme temperatures
• Lightning strikes
• Downed trees or tree limbs

During and after severe weather, a variety of hazards often develop.  Make sure you and your employees know what to do in case of hazards like broken windows, collapsed walls, handling debris, etc.

Do You Have an Emergency Action Plan in Place? 
An Emergency Action Plan should include information regarding:

• Evacuation routes and procedures
• Critical plant operations
• Backing up critical information and company data records
• Accounting for evacuees
• Emergency Action Communication
• Rescue and medical duties
• Procedures for reporting emergencies

It is best to formulate a team in charge of developing the Emergency Action Plan.  Team members should analyze all potential hazards and probability of hazards occurring, outline response procedures for all potential emergencies, conduct training to assure all personnel are aware of their role, and asses or amend the plan as necessary.  The Emergency Action Plan should also outline Emergency Action Communication procedures.  How will employees be notified of severe weather?  How will they notify their supervisor of safety? Are there other means of communication other than mobile phones?

Are You Prepared for Flooding?

• Protect electrical and HVAC equipment
• Anchor fuel and hazardous material storage tanks
• Install sewer backflow valves and sump pumps
• Move objects to higher floor and secure outdoor items
• Have sandbags and plastic sheeting on hand
• If possible, evacuate the flood zone
• Move to higher ground away from rivers and streams
• Don’t try to drive across flooded roads. A shallow depth of 6 inches of flowing water can sweep you off your feet.
• If trapped, go to a higher floor and wait for rescue

Do You Have a “Shelter In Place” Location?

• Make sure to include a first aid kit in the shelter location
• Prepare for high winds and floodwaters
• Heed hurricane or tornado watches and warnings
• Evacuate if advised
• Make sure the shelter location is in the center of the building. Stay away from windows, faucets, and electrical items
• After severe weather, evaluate the site to identify potential safety or health hazards.

BONUS TIP: Check with your insurance provider to update any newly purchased equipment or changes to policies.  Always make sure you understand what the policy actually covers.

SRP Environmental provides a variety of services relating to emergency preparedness.  SRP provides risk management and safety training services to companies throughout the United States.  SRP also has a Large Loss and Disaster Response division to assist your company after severe weather strikes.   For More Information Contact Us Directly at (866) 222-4972.