Ways to Mitigate Weather-Related Hazards at Your Bar
by Illinois Casualty Company, Loss Control Team
Power outages
- Arrange a freezer / refrigeration truck
- Power generator
- Keep coolers and freezers closed
Flooding
- Installation of French drain or sump pumps in basement – keep maintained
- Keep perishable food storage elevated
Winter-related issues
- Keep parking lots and sidewalks shoveled and salted
- Warning signage near entrance and parking lot (slippery when wet, watch for falling snow and ice, watch your step, etc.)
Thunderstorms
- Keep combustible materials away from the building
- Disconnect electrical equipment (if possible)
- Keep trees trimmed
- Secure outdoor objects
- Install impact resistant windows, reinforced doors and shutters
- Keep roof maintained (repair as needed)
Miscellaneous situations
- Inspect exterior (parking lot, sidewalks, building) at different times of the year and weather events. This can determine a number of different issues.
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- Where patrons typically park and walk
- The location of public egress and ingress points
- Identify cracks and potholes
- Determine the location of snow drifts, ice accumulation, snow pack or other snow removal issues
- Examine the condition of downspouts
- Check for buildup of dried leaves in gutters
- Keep updated copies (off site) of important documents, including photos of equipment, appliances, and inventory
- Keep a list of all contractors and suppliers in the event of a severe weather emergency
- Pre-plan procedures in the event of an emergency and make sure employees know their roles and responsibilities
- Make sure emergency lighting is installed and operating properly
Editor’s Note: Illinois Casualty Company is the exclusive preferred vendor of the Pennsylvania Licensed Beverage and Tavern Association for liquor liability insurance. Qualifying Members can save up to 10% on their businessowners and liquor liability insurance. To find out more about insurance programs from Illinois Casualty Company and to locate an agent in your area, visit www.ilcasco.com/insurance-programs.