If your business is in the path of a hurricane or any major storm, there are some simple things you can do to help mitigate the damage to your business. And, remember, always heed any evacuation orders from local emergency officials.

1. Check roof drains to make sure they are clear of debris.
2. Check around the facility and roof and remove or move inside anything that could become windblown (e.g., equipment, trashcans).
3. Have plywood or hurricane shutters ready to mount over windows.
4. Test any portable generators ahead of time and make sure there is an adequate fuel supply.
5. Consider shutting down computers, systems and processes to avoid power surge damage.
6. Relocate equipment and storage items away from basements, windows and ground-level doors.
7. Mobilize any contractors that maintain the facility and put them on alert should you need them during or after the storm.
8. Move your business vehicles to high ground if necessary to remove them from flood areas.
9. Assign a management representative (or two) to monitor the weather conditions and the storm track as well as to be the person(s) to implement your business’s Emergency Response Plan and/or Flood Emergency Response Plan, if necessary.
10. Back up important business data off site where it can be accessed even if you do not have access to the office.

Should you need to report a claim, we are ready to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also call us at 1-800-216-1420. Please have the following information available: the policy number, your independent insurance agency name and the date and details of the incident.

^{NOTICE: This information is provided solely as an insurance risk management tool.  It is provided with the understanding that the member insurance companies of the Utica National Insurance Group are not providing legal advice, risk management advice, or any other professional services or advice. Utica National shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of this information. You are encouraged to consult an attorney or other professional for advice on these issues.}