After witnessing the devastation brought by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria last year, business owners across the Gulf Coast will have a weary eye on the tropics as hurricane season begins in just a couple of months. However, businesses have the opportunity to take actions now that can help limit business closures, mitigate potential income losses, and reduce damages in the event our region is struck by another hurricane or major weather event. In today's Aegis blog post, we look at three things companies should be doing now before the start of hurricane season on June 1.

Property Improvements

One of the best ways to reduce potential commercial property damages from a hurricane or other major storm is to make the property as strong and secure as possible. Property improvements, building reinforcements, and general repairs and maintenance can improve the company's chances of weathering a hurricane or storm. For example, companies can improve property drainage, add detention ponds, replace older windows and doors, and move critical equipment, inventory, and electronics to higher ground to help prevent water damage.  This can help reduce the likelihood of property losses from floodwaters, broken windows, or damaged structures. 

Creating and Testing Preparedness Plans

Another way in which businesses can ready themselves before hurricane season is to develop and test out emergency plans. Having a preparedness plan in place helps give clarity and direction to all employees and allows the company to stabilize much sooner. As part of the preparedness plan, businesses should test evacuation routes, move to cloud-based networks, and choose alternate work site locations. Create clear-cut communication plans for each department with instructions for what to do before, during, and after a hurricane arrives.  Business leaders can also develop strategies for securing alternate vendors to ensure any gaps in services or operations are minimal. 

Securing Additional Commercial Insurance

Finally, companies can also prepare for hurricane season and protect their business by securing the right kind of Commercial Insurance. Last year's three massive hurricanes made many businesses realize the importance of commercial insurance, whether they were directly impacted or were spared from damages. In addition to having some combination of Commercial Property, Commercial Auto, Business Income, Utility Disruption, and Flood Insurance, companies need to ensure they have the correct coverage amounts in the event of a major event.

Aegis Insurance & Financial Services is pleased to be a leading provider of top quality Commercial Insurance products and services across all industries. We strive to provide our clients with comprehensive insurance coverage that meets their unique needs, all at competitive rates. If you would like more information about our line of Commercial Insurance policies, contact Aegis at 713-850-7622 or fill out our online form for a free quote!