Hurricanes

GENERAL INFORMATION

Hurricanes are severe tropical storms with sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or greater. Damage from hurricanes result from strong winds and torrential rain. Tornadoes are often spawned by hurricanes. Following the storm, additional threats include looting, delayed return of employees, tenants, and customers, and disrupted communication and transportation. The hurricane season lasts from June through November.

The National Weather Service provides these official hurricane alerts:

  • Hurricane Watch: A hurricane is possible within 24-36 hours.

  • Hurricane Warning: A hurricane will hit land within 24 hours.

    • Category I: sustained winds of 74 - 95 mph

    • Category II: sustained winds of 96 - 110 mph

    • Category III: sustained winds of 111 - 130 mph

    • Category IV: sustained winds of 131 - 155 mph

    • Category V: sustained winds in excess of 155 mph

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

  1. Contact major contractors whose services may be required after the storm, such as security, housekeeping, electricians, general contractor, architect, HVAC contractors for separate systems and/or plumbing contractors.

  2. Update all emergency phone numbers for employees, contractors, Property Manager and insurance carriers.

  3. Assess the status of alternate communication equipment, such as mobile phones, pagers, 2-way radios, and battery operated radios.

  4. Review evacuation plans.

  5. Update emergency medical supplies.

  6. Identify employees with special needs and/or resources.

  7. Verify that employees are personally prepared for the storm. Obtain information on how to contact employees after the storm.

  8. Contact the insurance company for advice.

  9. Determine a method of securing glass entrances to prevent unauthorized access following the storm.

  10. Prepare to remove records, computers, and other items to a safe location.

  11. Make a back-up of all computers programs/records and store a copy at a different location.

  12. Make arrangements to videotape the property to document pre-storm conditions.

  13. Move as many items as possible off the floor and cover them with plastic as appropriate.

  14. Notify insurance carriers of any damages after the storm has passed.