Business Safety Tips for Those Unpredictable Winters in Dutchess County

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

Winter safety is crucial for any building owner or facilities manager. Not doing your part may cause structural consequences or someone could be hurt.

Even though there are some great forecasters out there (bennollweather.com and hudsonvalleyweather.com), we can’t truly rely on the weather forecast being accurate in the winter months. We do know that living in the Hudson Valley has taught us to never underestimate the power of Mother Nature. Protecting your business or commercial property in the winter months is just as important as the winter prep you do for your home.

Here are some great tips to help prepare your business for this winter and the future and to help give you some piece of mind:

*Check the external areas of the building or common areas for downed tree limbs and branches.

*Inspect your property's walkways and parking lots for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazards, icing problems, trip/fall hazards, potholes and cracks and repairs needed to keep those areas free and clear (this is a good idea all year long). If needed, keep a bucket of rock salt located nearby.

*If you have a parking lot at your building, keep it free and clear of snow and ice, keep lots of salt handy and use it often. If you have a snow removal company, have them inspect and attend to any areas on a very regular basis.

*Check all handrails, stairwells and entry ways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present. Large orange cones can also be helpful in areas that need to be avoided for the time being.

*Inspect the roof for any problems that could lead to leaks and have the gutters cleaned bi-annually.

*Eliminate any drafts with caulking or weather stripping, as gaps around windows and doors run up heating bills.

*Keep vacant areas heated on a low setting, 55 degrees is ideal and will help prevent pipes from freezing. Burst pipes have costly repercussions and can cause significant structural issues and potential mold growth.

*Don’t forget about outdoor watering systems, these need to be winterized properly as well.

*Consider a facilities manager or property management company to help keep an eye on things for you, especially if you aren’t able to be at the property often or live out of state. They're a great way to have problems taken care of quickly in your absence.

The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it NOW.

-Ask SERVPRO of Western Dutchess County about starting an Emergency Ready Profile for your business. It’s FREE and a great resource to have at your fingertips in case of a disaster.

If your business suffers any kind of fire, water, sewage or mold damage, we’re here to help 24/7. We’ll get you back to business quickly, "Like it never even happened," (845)831-3600.