Prepare your Inn for Unpredictable Spring Weather

It is very likely, no matter where your Bed & Breakfast is located, a powerful, unplanned spring storm could occur. A sunny, warm day may transpire into severe thunderstorms or even a tornado within seconds. Unpredictable weather doesn’t give you much notice or time to react. Preparing now helps protect your Inn and your guests. Create peace of mind this spring by following these simple steps to secure your property for spring weather.

Take Preventative Measures at Your Bed & Breakfast

Oftentimes the smallest change can create a world of difference. Try these storm-proofing tips!

• Stay up to date on repairs
•  Remove winter debris from your gutters, drains, and downspouts
• Double-check that all doors and windows are sealed properly
• Use surge protectors for electronic equipment such as computers, televisions and appliances
• Verify that your sump pump is working and install a backup battery-operated pump
• Trim or remove any trees that could be potential risks to the property
• Fasten down all heavy furniture
• Invest in a generator

Take Updated Photos of Your Bed & Breakfast

In the likelihood that a storm does occur, you will want to have photos of everything inside and on your Inn’s property. Doing so can speed up the process if a claim is filed. Don’t be afraid to snap a couple of pictures of your parking lot or driveway. Photograph each room with every piece of furniture and appliance. This is a sure way to prove that the damage wasn’t there beforehand. Capturing just a few images before disaster strikes will save you when making a claim for your property.

Provide Emergency Essentials

Your top priority is the safety of your guests and employees. If something were to happen, make sure to provide the necessary resources. Here is a quick list of essentials that you should have available for guests and employees.

• First aid kit; According to the American Red Cross, a first aid kit should include: non-latex gloves, tweezers, scissors, tissues, an assortment of adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, adhesive cloth tape, aspirin packets, sterile gauze pads and dressings.
• Battery-operated radio
• Working flashlights
• Candles and matches
• Trash bags
• Extra batteries
• Blankets
• Charged wireless charger
• Clean drinking water or water purifying tablets
• Nonperishable food

Always leave instructions on how to shut off the power to your Bed & Breakfast using the main fuse or breaker on the electrical service panel and how to shut off water and gas support lines. Your employees will appreciate that you keep their safety a priority and that they are informed on how to prepare for a disaster. Make sure to restock these items as needed.

Create a Plan in Case of an Emergency

A good idea is to include this in a booklet for your employees. This includes your contact information, emergency exit strategies, where emergency supplies can be found, and how to receive weather updates for the area. Most insurance policies will require you to have emergency information, such as 911, the Bed & Breakfasts address and either the insured’s or the manager’s phone number readily available at all times. Be specific with this information. Keeping everyone on the same page on where to seek shelter is crucial to communication efforts.  

Stay Alert & Pay Attention

Sign up for weather notifications for your Bed & Breakfast’s location. Pay attention to anything that could potentially harm your guests and property. Don’t forget to communicate with your guests about any inclement weather going on. Develop a habit of checking the weather every morning and night. Getting in the routine of checking the local weather daily can help prepare you for whatever storm may come your way.

Have Innkeeper’s Insurance

Reducing risk and staying informed is great when preparing for harsh spring weather. You never know when a tornado or power outage could occur. Take the extra step and make sure you and your Inn are covered with comprehensive innkeeper’s insurance. Talk to a CBIZ Innkeeper Insurance expert and have peace of mind that your insurance will cover the damage and potential loss of income from being closed for repairs.

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information

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