As temperatures drop, risks rise. Winter brings beauty, but also a range of hazards that can disrupt operations, damage property, and endanger your employees. From frozen pipes to icy walkways and power outages, even a short cold snap can lead to costly downtime and insurance claims.

At Relation Insurance, we help businesses prepare for what’s ahead. A proactive winter weather risk management plan protects your people, property, and profits long before the first snowflake falls.

1. Protect Your People: Safety Starts Before the Storm

Employee safety should always come first. Slip-and-fall incidents increase dramatically during the winter months, often leading to injuries and lost workdays. Before winter weather strikes, make sure your business:

• Clears snow and ice promptly from parking lots, sidewalks, and entryways.
• Provides slip-resistant mats and footwear for high-traffic areas.
• Communicates safety reminders about slowing down and using caution in bad weather.
• Reviews your emergency response plan so everyone knows what to do if the power goes out or conditions worsen.

A few small steps now can prevent serious accidents, and protect both your team and your bottom line.

2. Safeguard Your Property: Prevent Freezing, Flooding, and Fire Risks

Winter weather can be tough on buildings and equipment. Burst pipes, roof collapses, and heating system failures are common sources of damage. To minimize the impact:

• Inspect and maintain heating systems to ensure they’re operating safely and efficiently.
• Insulate exposed pipes and keep indoor temperatures above freezing, even during off-hours.
• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and roof leaks.
• Trim overhanging tree limbs that could fall under the weight of ice or snow.
• Test your backup generators and ensure fuel supplies are stocked.

Preventive maintenance is far more affordable, and far less disruptive, than dealing with repairs after the fact.

3. Protect Your Profits: Keep Operations Running Smoothly

Winter weather events can cause unplanned shutdowns, supply chain delays, and missed revenue opportunities. A strong continuity plan helps keep your business moving, even when conditions get rough.

Consider:

• Developing a communication plan for employees, vendors, and clients in case of closures or delays.
• Reviewing your insurance coverage, especially property, business interruption, and workers’ compensation policies, to confirm you’re adequately protected.
• Partnering with a trusted advisor who understands your risks and can help tailor coverage to your business operations.

At Relation, we help businesses evaluate winter weather risk management strategies specific to their industry and location, ensuring you’re ready for whatever the season brings.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Winter weather can be unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Taking proactive steps today can help prevent costly claims and disruptions tomorrow.

If you’re unsure where to start, our Relation Insurance advisors are here to help. We’ll work with you to assess your exposures, strengthen your safety plans, and secure the right coverage for your business, so you can face winter with confidence.

Contact Relation Insurance today to learn more about protecting your people, property, and profits this winter season.