4 Ways to Prepare Your Business for Winter

From severe weather to long vacations and holiday distractions, the winter season can be challenging for businesses. Here's how to prepare for winter weather.

1. Anticipate Bad Weather

Even if your business is entirely indoors, winter events and weather can make an impact in most of the U.S. Plan ahead so your business is ready for the season. 

Download a weather app to get alerts for winter storm watches and warnings. Be aware of storms that could impact employees and customers who live in other areas, too, as well as weather that could cause shipping delays.

2. Take Steps to Prevent Slips, Falls and Accidents

Winter weather means workplace injuries are more likely. Have ice melt, cat litter or sand on hand to help keep your walkways clear of ice and snow. Close your business if it’s too dangerous for you, your staff or your customers to walk or drive in the weather.

Arrange for a plow and snow-clearing service to keep any parking areas and walkways clear if that’s not something you’ll handle yourself.

Make sure your personal vehicle and any company cars are prepared for winter weather with items such as all-weather tires, snow tires and studs or chains, depending on your climate. Top off your fluids and install winter wiper blades. Make sure all your lights are working as well.

3. Create a Business Continuity Plan

You’ll want to keep your business running as smoothly as possible even when the weather makes travel or day-to-day operations difficult.

• Make sure your employees understand your policies for weather-related disruptions — have an inclement weather policy for your small business prepared ahead of time. 
• Keep phones and laptops fully charged so you can connect with customers if you lose power. You can let them know what’s going on and when you might be back online.
• If necessary, install a generator to keep the power running when the electric grid is down.
• Post any business closings on your website, Google business listing and social media, and send your customer list an email.
• Talk to your vendors and suppliers about contingency plans for your business in winter. 

4. Expect Distractions and Interruptions

During the winter season, you, your staff and your customers may be focused on the holidays. People might be leaving work early, taking time off and traveling. Your company may need to accommodate religious holidays and other business interruptions in winter.

Again, it helps to plan. Make sure you have the winter holidays on your calendar and discuss any time off needed with your staff. Know when local schools are closed, since that can affect plans for your customers and employees who have young children.

Make Sure Your Business Is Protected

You need the right insurance coverage for your business in the winter and throughout the year. From workers’ compensation to loss control, a Farm Bureau insurance agent can make sure you have what you need to protect your bottom line. Reach out today to review your policies and make sure you have the coverage you need at the best price.