Are You Prepared for the Storm?

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Keep fire extinguishers accessible throughout a property

Property managers in Oxford, OH have a lot on their plates. While the day-to-day bustle may seem nonstop, time needs to be set aside to ensure your properties and the people in them are ready for anything. Although no building is safe from Mother Nature’s wrath, developing a storm preparedness plan can ensure confident handling of emergency situations.

Develop and Communicate the Plan

Property management often means juggling numerous unique properties. Although each may have its own special requirements, it’s important to develop a general emergency plan. Once that is in place, special needs for each property can be incorporated. This plan needs to be clearly communicated to all tenants and anyone associated with a property.

What Should a Plan Include?

Storm preparedness requires considering all possibilities. A bad storm could result in fires, evacuations, property damage and much more. They key elements of a plan should address the who, what and where of facing whatever may come.

Ensure diagrams are in all buildings that include emergency exits, fir-safe stairwells and other safe spots.
Keep fire extinguishers accessible throughout a property. Include instructions on their proper use.
If a building has an emergency detection system, ensure it is working. If it doesn’t, assign a person and backups to be responsible for calling 911.
Have an established way to contact tenants. This could be through automated voice messages, texts or emails.
Plan for backup communications in case the power goes out.

Plan for Damage

Even with a storm preparedness plan in place, damage can happen. To reduce the risk, keep buildings up to code. Regular maintenance can ensure codes are continually met. In addition to insuring the properties, encourage tenants to obtain renter’s insurance for their own protection.
Once the storm subsides and everyone is safe, that is the time to access the damage. Whether it’s a little or a lot, count on trusted professionals to get your property ready to weather the next one.