These unprecedented Covid-19 times are forcing many businesses to temporarily close and vacate their properties.  Below are a few tips for keeping your property safe and protected during a temporary shutdown.  

General Practices

• Update your property, equipment and material inventory. An equipment, supply and property    inventory can simplify filing an insurance claim if a robbery or accident happens while you are away 
• Unplug unnecessary equipment
• Continue normal property maintenance schedule 
• Continue to utilize pest control services 
• Have your mail and subscriptions forwarded

Fire Protection and Prevention 

• Ensure Smoke/Heat detectors are working properly
• Inspect and maintain the automatic sprinkler system
• Close Fire Doors
• Reduce Fire Load – minimize or remove storage of flammable liquids, combustible materials, pallets,    compressed gas cylinders 
• Alarm System - ensure all alarm systems are activated and in service, including automatic sprinkler   alarms, such as water flow and valve tamper; smoke/heat detection; and security alarms
• Remove all trash from the facility
• Remove or minimize combustible storage from the building
• Trim trees, shrubs and hedges; remove brush near building(s)
• Shut off gas mains that are not needed
• Maintain proper heating as necessary to prevent sprinkler pipes from freezing

Critical Equipment

• Continue with the Preventive Maintenance Program
• Properly shut down equipment
• Place protective coverings on sensitive equipment, computers, and supplies 
• Maintain operations for cold storage or other temperature sensitive equipment, supplies, and materials

Water Damage Prevention

• Consider turning off non-essentials water services – toilets, sinks, appliances
• Survey the property for possible points of water intrusion
• Complete roof repairs; clean gutters and drains
• Clear storm and waste water drains
• Protect pipes from freezing
• Maintain the dehumidifier to prevent high moisture environments and possible mold damage

Security

• Provide sufficient Inside and Outdoor lighting
• Secure windows and doors
• Employ security services or the police to regularly observe the property
• Utilize Security Cameras
• Monitor Security Alarms
• Maintain cyber security controls

At Haylor, Freyer and Coon, we have the People, the Programs, the Relationships and the Expertise to help your staff manage your Insurance & Risk Management needs. 

For more information on this and other safety / loss control topics, please contact us.