Floods can sometimes be predictable. For example, charting the habitual swelling of the tides establishes typical water levels and indicates when coastal areas might be prone to flooding. However, more often than not, floods can arise without warning—rivers, lakes or the sea can overrun, swamp defenses and surge through the surrounding areas like what recently happened with Hurricane Harvey.
The fickle nature of weather in the United States only exacerbates the unpredictability of floods, and with so many areas susceptible to flooding, one unexpected severe storm can trigger widespread, damaging floods. Neglecting to prepare your property for possible flooding can sink your business. Stay afloat with solid preparation and a thorough flood plan.
Preparing for Floods
It is impossible to completely flood-proof your property, but flood preparation can lower your business’ risk of damage and reduce business interruptions.
Begin your preparation by consulting your area’s flood risk map, which you can find at www.floodsmart.gov.
Once you have assessed your risk, it is time to prepare your business. Buy and install products in advance that fortify your property against water. Consider the following precautions against flooding when building or remodeling:
- Purchase flood boards for your doors that you can install when flooding is imminent.
- Seal floors to prevent water seeping up through the ground.
- Fit non-return valves to drains and both inlet and outlet water pipes.
- Install high shelving where you can store items when flooding is inevitable.
- Raise electrical sockets, fuse boxes and wiring at least 12 inches above the 100-year flood level in your area.
- Keep a pump in the basement or lowest level to remove flood water.
In combination with your business’ physical flood prevention measures, adopt these organizational precautions for more comprehensive flood preparation:
- Compile a list of useful telephone numbers, including your local government and your insurer.
- Learn how to shut off your gas, electricity and water.
- Develop a flood continuity plan with suppliers and clients.
- Designate an emergency flood contact.
- Train your employees in correct flood safety procedures, and establish a safe meeting place in case you need to evacuate.
- Stockpile useful materials like plastic sheeting, plywood, sandbags, nails, hammers and shovels.
In the aftermath of a man-made or natural disaster, you and your company will have a number of concerns to account for as you prepare to reopen for business. Follow this checklist to ensure that you take the proper steps to recover after a disaster strikes. DOWNLOAD: Disaster Recovery Checklist
Creating a Flood Plan
A flood plan is a written document outlining how your business will respond to a flood. Store your business’ flood plan in an easily accessible location—everyone should know where it is at all times. All flood plans should include the following:
- A list of important contact information and any additional flood warning systems, building services, suppliers and evacuation contacts
- A map showing locations of supplies, protective materials and shut-off points
- An outline of basic strategies for protecting property, ensuring health and safety, minimizing business disruption and facilitating recovery
- Procedural checklists for staff to use during a flood
Review and update your plan annually. Flood risks and procedures can change, so make sure your business is prepared.
Staying Prepared
Flood insurance is the ultimate preparation for your business. Check your commercial coverage to make sure you are covered for flood damage. Flooding poses a substantial—and sometimes ruinous—threat to businesses in the United States. The insurance professionals at Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance, LLC are poised to help fortify your property. Rely on us to provide more flood preparation materials and help keep your business from going under.
