Prepare Your Business for Winter Weather Hazards

Heavy snowfall, high winds, ice and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on businesses, causing billions in property damage and threatening operations. In 2024 alone, there were 24 severe weather-related disasters that caused losses exceeding $1 billion each, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information. The stakes are high as about 25% of businesses never reopen after a disaster, according to the U.S. Small Business Association.

To avoid becoming part of these statistics, it is vital to understand the risks that come with winter weather, prepare your business to withstand severe conditions, and have a plan in place to ensure continuity should an emergency occur. A strong preparedness plan can make the difference between staying operational and shutting down—yet only 60% of businesses have one, leaving many vulnerable to preventable losses.

Understanding the Risks

Winter weather presents unique challenges to businesses. Beyond the immediate dangers of snow and ice, these conditions can disrupt operations, damage property, and even threaten employee safety. Understanding these risks is crucial for businesses to proactively prepare, minimize potential losses, and ensure business continuity throughout the winter months. Here are some risks to be aware of:

• Frozen and Burst Pipes: When water freezes, it expands, causing pipes to crack or burst. If temperatures drop below 20°F, the pipes in a commercial building can freeze, and if left untreated, can burst. Burst pipes cause flooding, which can lead to significant and costly water damage, as well as creating unsafe conditions for customers and employees.
• Ice Dams and Roof Damage: Inadequate roof insulation can cause ice dams and force water under shingles and into the building’s structure, leading to extensive interior damage. Additionally, excessive snow buildup can stress roofs to the point of buckling or collapse, posing a serious safety hazard.
• Flooding from Snow: Rapid snowmelt can overwhelm poorly designed or clogged drainage systems, resulting in flooding. This can lead to costly water damage, mold growth, and structural issues.
• Extended Power Outages: Ice storms and high winds can damage power lines, cutting off electricity, heat, and refrigeration. This can spoil perishable goods, disrupt operations, and leave the building dangerously cold.

Preparing Your Business for Winter Weather

Proactive preparation is essential to minimize the impact of winter weather on your business. By taking the following steps to prepare your business for winter weather hazards, you can enhance your resilience and ensure business continuity during severe weather events.

• Conduct an Assessment: Have your business assessed before a winter storm to identify potential vulnerabilities such as poor insulation, outdated pipes and drafty doors and windows. Address these issues proactively to prevent costly damage.
• Winterize Your Business: Take these steps to protect your building from the harsh winter elements:
  • Insulate pipes properly to prevent freezing.
  • Seal windows and doors to minimize drafts.
  • Clear gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
  • Trim tree branches that could fall on the building during a storm.
  • Invest in backup power solutions, such as a generator.
  • Keep sidewalk salt on hand, and put out non-slip water absorption maps at all entrances.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Power outages are common during severe winter storms, so prepare an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food, water, and warm clothing or blankets.
• Develop a Business Continuity Plan: Create an emergency response plan that outlines procedures for employee and customer safety, communication protocols, and potential business closures.

Responding to a Winter Weather Emergency

Even with the best preparation, unforeseen emergencies can arise during and after a winter storm. A swift and organized response is crucial to minimize damage, ensure employee safety, and facilitate a timely recovery.

• Communicate Emergency Plan: Make sure employees and customers are safe by following your established emergency protocols. If using a generator, ensure it is operated outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and monitor fuel levels to maintain functionality. Clear snow from critical areas and prepare for potential evacuation if conditions worsen.
• Assess Damage: After a storm, carefully inspect your property for damage such as water intrusion, roof damage or broken windows. Document any damage with photos or videos for insurance purposes.
• Utilize Professional Restoration Services: In the event your business suffers damage, professional restoration companies can help you recover quickly and minimize disruption to your business.

By taking these proactive steps and being prepared for the unexpected, businesses can mitigate the risks associated with winter weather and ensure their continued operation throughout the colder months.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Steve Leasure

Steve Leasure is vice president of operations at Rainbow Restoration in Waco, Texas. He joined the Rainbow Restoration team near the end of 2022. Leasure has spent most of the past 20 years working in the franchise space, ​leading teams, and helping franchise owners achieve profitability goals. He has worked for both large and startup franchise companies. Along with ​his wife Callie, Leasure has been a multi-unit, multi-concept franchise owner ​himself, so he brings a unique perspective to the relationship their franchise ​owners have with the Rainbow Home Office.