Help a Tree Landed on my Roof!
On a hot summer’s day a cool breeze is probably welcomed by all. However, wind isn’t always a good thing! Strong wind speeds, often associated with severe thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes can cause devastating damage.
As a business owner, it is important to protect your property from the destructive behaviour of strong winds. Here are a few helpful risk management tips:
- Trim dead tree branches and dead trees surrounding your property. This will decrease the likelihood of a tree falling on your property or someone else's property and causing damage.
- Outdoor equipment, signage, sheds and outbuildings should be tightly secured. You don’t want to have those objects flying around.
- Keep your outside property clean of any loose garbage. Loose garbage is at a greater risk of being thrown and used as projectiles.
- Evaluate items stored outside and determine if it is possible to bring them inside. If that is not possible, secure outside equipment, stock and tools with a tarp.
- Store vehicles inside a garage or storage building. Moving them to a better location not under power wires or tree branches if possible.
- Perform regular maintenance on your building. This includes repairing and maintaining shingles, cracks, siding, windows, doors etc.
- Have your property inspected by a certified risk manager. They can often focus on areas of concern you may have overlooked.
Remember to also talk to your insurance broker to review your coverages, limits and deductibles with respect to wind damage as policies can differ.
We also recommend creating an emergency kit for your business because wind storms don’t take the day off work! Download our Free Emergency Kit Checklist to get you started.