This year's hurricane season is predicted to be another active one, so businesses can take proactive steps now to protect their company, assets, and employees now before a storm impacts our region. While some preparation can be largely physical in nature, such as securing outdoor property and reinforcing windows, other preparation can be done through the help of new technology. Our Aegis blog post today looks at three ways technology can help companies with their hurricane preparation to ensure they make a faster recovery.

Cloud-Based Email and Networks

With many companies relying heavily on email and computer networks for daily operations, it can be devastating for a business if these critical systems are damaged or lost for a significant period of time because of hurricane damage. To reduce the risk of losing email, valuable data, and communication with employees and clients, companies can transition their email and network servers now to cloud-based systems to ensure they can access their systems from any remote location if their property is damaged or closed due to a hurricane or other major event.

Digital Continuity Plans and Supplier Networks

Another way businesses can harness technology to complete hurricane preparation is by making digital records of continuity plans and supplier networks. Too often, companies that suffer property damage, whether from hurricanes, flooding, or fire, end up losing valuable documents and information because it was just handwritten or printed out, and not stored anywhere digitally. For example, restaurants might only have vendor information handwritten on papers, or an auto repair shop might have an updated list of auto parts suppliers tacked onto a wall, but an outdated file saved on their computer. Any kind of important list, contact info, supplier and vendor accounts, bank records, and customer data should be stored securely online and backed up onto a cloud-based network for anytime access.

Aerial Imagery For Insurance Purposes

Finally, technology can help companies prepare for hurricanes by offering aerial imagery that can be invaluable for insurance purposes. The use of drone footage or satellite images can help provide a more thorough assessment of property value, and can also help identify hidden risk areas to consider for insurance purposes that might not be visible otherwise. In addition, aerial imagery can also help identify nearby development or land projects that could impact drainage and flooding risks to your own commercial property, which could impact the level of flood insurance needed.

Businesses that utilize technology for hurricane preparations are far more likely to make a full recovery from hurricane damages and closures, and can resume operations on a faster scale than those who do not prepare. Aegis Insurance & Financial Services can also help companies of all industries prepare for hurricane season by offering a full range of top quality Commercial Insurance solutions, tailored to specific industries and unique business needs. Contact our Aegis office at 713-850-7622 for more information, or fill out our online form to request a free quote!