June 29, 2018.
The start of hurricane season is here again and it is predicted that America’s 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season will be the most destructive ever. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), weather experts predict the possibility of 35% more hurricanes this year than in the “average” hurricane season. Hurricanes can cause severe wind damage, loss of power, extreme flooding, loss of business and personal property to residents and businesses due to heavy rain and severe winds. It takes only one storm to devastate an entire community, therefore everybody needs to be prepared to face the most dangerous storms that Mother Nature creates.
Businesses that are in hurricane/flood related areas often wonder if they are receiving the benefits of their investment in preparedness methods. FM Global, a global commercial and industrial property insurer, recently conducted an analysis where they reviewed thousands of client’s wind and flood loss and mitigation information from around the world. The study yielded that for every $1 a business spends on hurricane protection reduces loss exposure by an average of $105.
This just proves that all businesses should consider any proactive cost-effective prevention methods as the repercussions of a major storm can cause considerable decreases in the market share, value, and reputation.
While hurricanes can be anticipated, which allows business owners, and all levels of the public and private sector to plan, prepare, and secure buildings and property, it is not always possible to fully plan for disasters as many times hurricanes and storms can change in size, strength, or course and/or strike areas that were not originally in its path. If last season’s hurricanes showed us anything, it is to prepare earlier rather than later and expect the unexpected. Precautionary measures help everybody, so we aren’t starting our preparations in the midst of chaos when warnings are issued, supplies are not available and evacuation orders have been given.
Stay up to date on emergency communications, alerts, and news in your local area. Public agencies have weather apps and news alerts you set up on your Smartphone or device to notify you as the storm unfolds. Don’t let this hurricane season or weather-related disasters catch you off guard. Storm damage can be costly.
We are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace for our employees, clients, and partners. We are closely monitoring the ongoing COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak according to the guidelines and recommendations of the CDC.
We appreciate the trust you place in us. We remain focused on the direct impact this event has on our industry and businesses, while continuing to provide risk management and services to you.