the hurricane checklist
Flying debris caused huge damage – minimize this by removing all debris around the dealership premises.
Get cell phone numbers and a complete list of all employees so that you can check on them following a storm. Since
communication systems may be destroyed, have a plan for your employees to assemble at your dealership at a certain
date and time after a hurricane. This will give you an opportunity to assess damage to your employee’s homes and
determine which employees will be available for clean up at your dealership. Most insurers will pay for employees
who perform debris removal following a storm.
Be aware of your responsibility to mitigate damages following a storm – your insurers require you to be able to
secure your premises and prevent further damage from wind and rain following a major storm.
Floor plan your used units that are eligible with your manufacturer’s finance arm.
As much as possible, have all vehicles picked up by customers.
To minimize your downtime and provide a safe haven for your employees, develop a source list for the following
products and services:
q Water & Ice – think of the large 7-11 style ice machines.
You will need ice & water and a way to store it.
q Generators – a life saver, so that you can restore power at your dealership.
Finding generators after a storm is difficult, so plan ahead and have them before
the storm hits.
q Gas & Chainsaws
Locate a source for portable bathrooms for your staff who will be involved in clean up, as there may be no electricity
or water for extended periods.
Speak with area contractors who would be able to provide some patchwork for damaged roof areas and contact an
electrician who can connect a generator into your regular dealership service.
Designate someone in charge to feed your employees daily if you take a direct hit.
Locate a source for mobile trailers in the event that your showroom is demolished. These trailers will serve as
headquarters for cleanup and will be useful in the event that your sales operations need to continue from mobile
units.
Have a plan for securing your premises after a storm. You may wish to contact local security firms to prevent
individuals from entering your premises during non-working hours.
Ensure that you have a contractor available who can also help you dry out your facilities. Contractors with drying
equipment and dehumidifiers are extremely helpful.
Talk to the people that handle your trash dumpsters and be sure that you can get additional dumpster facilities for
clean up after the storm.
Contact area firms for bobcat and front – end loaders for debris removal.
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NATDA Magazine www.natda.org