Insurance Quotes, Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Business Owners: Hurricane season is ramping up–particularly in the Atlantic region. If you’re a business owner, you need to make sure you’re prepared for the worst. Check out these hurricane preparedness tips courtesy of Acadia Insurance.

First, make sure you have a “Go Box,” just in case you have to leave your business in a hurry. Your “Go Box” should include information such as:

• Lists of all employees, key customers and vendors along with their phone numbers and addresses
• Insurance policies and agent contact information
• Electronic data back-up
• Equipment, computer software/hardware, and furniture inventories
• A list of emergency vendors, such as plumbers and restoration contractors
• Copies of essential business policies, plans, and agreements
• Photographs of the business and equipment, both inside and out

Additionally, business owners should consider other pre-storm steps such as:

• Inspecting and making emergency repairs to drains and gutters
• Strapping or anchoring all roof-mounted equipment such as HVAC units and exhaust vents
• Installing windstorm shutters or plywood over windows and doors
• Disconnecting the main electrical feeds to the facility to prevent a potential fire caused by short-circuiting of damaged equipment
• Taking the following steps so that outdoor items will not blow away or cause damage: 1) Removing all loose debris.
  2) Anchoring or relocating all nonessential equipment to a safe indoor location.
  3) Securing storage of flammable liquid drums, or move them to a sheltered area.
  4) Anchoring all portable buildings to the ground.
  5) Securing large cranes and other heavy equipment.
  6) Making sure outdoor signs are properly braced.