When a hurricane strikes, every minute counts. Staff safety, property protection, and minimizing downtime are critical. Planning and knowing what to do before, during, and after a storm can mean the difference between a minor disruption and a major setback.
Emergency Contacts That Matter When a Storm Hits
Knowing exactly who to call during severe weather can make all the difference. Post emergency numbers in visible areas and make sure every staff member has access:
- 911
- Local police and fire departments
- Utility companies: power, water, gas
- Health department
- Insurance provider
- Staff emergency contacts: keep an updated list of all employees
Quick access to these contacts helps your team respond promptly, protect property, and minimize operational disruptions.
72 Hours Before Storm Arrival (Hurricane Watch Issued)
Three days out, the storm starts to feel real. Weather reports dominate, deliveries may be disrupted, and staff feel pressure mounting. This is the time to review operations and prepare your team and property.
- Monitor storm updates: Check forecasts from the National Hurricane Center (https://www.nhc.noaa.gov) to understand the storm’s path and intensity.
- Check inventory and emergency supplies: Make sure you have non-perishable food, water, and first-aid supplies on hand.
- Assign staff responsibilities: Make sure everyone knows their role in storm preparations.
- Verify insurance policies and document conditions: Take photos of your restaurant and equipment to support potential claims.
- Back up critical business data: Store important files securely in the cloud or off-site.
48 Hours Before the Storm
Two days out, the storm is closing in and urgency grows. Staff may feel anxious, and the window to protect property is shrinking. Now is the time to move from planning to physical preparation.
- Secure outdoor items: Bring in or anchor furniture, signage, and loose objects.
- Protect perishable food: Move items to freezers and lower temperatures to extend freshness.
- Test backup power sources: Ensure generators and battery-powered lighting work properly.
- Protect windows and doors: Install storm shutters or plywood.
- Confirm staff communication: Recheck emergency contacts and inform employees about potential closures or schedule changes.
24 Hours Before Storm Arrival (Hurricane Warning Issued)
One day out, the storm is imminent. This is the time to finalize preparations and protect your team and property.
- Shut off non-essential utilities: Turn off gas, water, and power if necessary to reduce hazards.
- Protect equipment and technology: Wrap kitchen equipment, computers, and POS systems in plastic covers.
- Secure storage and cash: Lock all storage areas and remove cash deposits.
- Evacuate staff if needed: Make sure employees leave safely and know reopening procedures.
- Communicate closures: Post updates on your website and social media to keep customers informed.
What to do During and After a Storm
- Confirm everyone is safe: Ensure all staff and anyone on-site have evacuated to secure locations.
- Monitor updates: Follow official weather alerts for storm progress.
- Avoid the restaurant: Do not attempt to return to the property until local authorities declare it safe.
Once the storm passes, check to make sure your staff is safe, evaluate any damage, and start taking steps to get your restaurant back in operation.
First 24 Hours After the Storm
Only enter the restaurant once authorities say it’s safe. Move carefully and prioritize hazards.
- Conduct a safety inspection: Inspect for structural damage, flooding, gas leaks, and downed power lines.
- Contact insurance providers: Notify your insurance company to start the claims process.
- Discard spoiled food: Safely dispose of perishable items that have been exposed to power outages or flooding.
- Sanitize the restaurant: Clean the kitchen, dining areas, and high-touch surfaces.
Reopening Procedures
With hazards addressed and your team safe, it’s time to bring your restaurant back to life.
- Restore utilities and test equipment: Ensure electricity, gas, water, and all kitchen and POS systems work properly.
- Restock inventory: Contact vendors for fresh food, beverages, and essential supplies.
- Communicate with customers: Update your website, social media, and in-store signage with reopening status and hours.
- Debrief your team: Review what worked, what didn’t, and lessons learned to improve future preparedness.
Contact CBIZ today to get the support and guidance your restaurant needs to prepare for, respond to, and recover from severe storms.
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