How To Protect Your Business During Wildfire Season

We are in the midst of wildfire season. The unfortunate reality is that you can never predict when one is going to break out. But if you’re running a business, no matter how big or how small, you can never be too prepared for an unexpected interruption to your operations.

So, what can you do to protect yourself, your employees and your business? Here are just a few tips to get you started: 

• Use the correct materials: Wherever you’re running your business from, whether it is a home or an office, make sure you use fire-resistant roofing, siding, fencing and other building materials. Siding is especially important. It is recommended that siding material be at least 12mm thick and it needs to have a 15cm ground-to-siding non-combustible clearance to be most effective.
• Testing, testing: A simple thing to do on a monthly basis is testing the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. They could save your life.
• Storage options: If your business deals with flammables, they should be stored at least 30m from any structure.. A minimum 10m non-combustible perimeter should exist around any structure. In the event of a wildfire, flammables and combustibles would be the first things to catch fire so the further they’re stored, the better.
• Back up: Ensure that any important documents and files have been backed up to an offsite location. Always keep a list of contact numbers for all employees for easy communication in case of an evacuation order.
• Cooperation: Local authorities know best in the case of an evacuation order. Always follow their directions and cooperate with emergency services. Create an evacuation plan and familiarize all employees with it. 

Is your business wildfire-ready? Contact your independent insurance broker to learn more about what you can do to minimize business interruption.

Visit www.rsagorup.ca/claims/find-a-broker to learn more. 

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