Preparing for Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
With hurricane season upon us, it’s crucial for propane businesses to prepare for the potential impact of tropical storms and hurricanes. The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) has released important information to help propane companies stay safe and ensure continued operations during these severe weather events. Here’s a summary of key recommendations and best practices to prepare for and respond to tropical storms and hurricanes.
Understanding the Risks
Tropical storms and hurricanes pose significant risks to propane operations, including damage to infrastructure, supply chain disruptions, and safety concerns. It’s essential for businesses to be aware of these risks and take proactive steps to minimize their impact.
Key Preparation Steps
Review and Update Emergency Plans
Action: Ensure that your emergency response plan is up-to-date and includes procedures for severe weather events. This plan should cover evacuation routes, communication protocols, and emergency contact information.
Why It Matters: Having a clear and comprehensive plan helps protect employees and ensures a quick response in the event of a tropical storm or hurricane.
Inspect and Secure Facilities
Action: Conduct a thorough inspection of your facilities and equipment. Secure any loose items, reinforce structures, and check that all safety equipment is in working order.
Why It Matters: Proper facility maintenance and reinforcement reduce the risk of damage and ensure that operations can continue with minimal disruption.
Prepare for Supply Chain Disruptions
Action: Assess your supply chain and identify potential vulnerabilities. Stock up on essential supplies and plan for alternate suppliers if needed.
Why It Matters: Ensuring that you have adequate supplies and backup plans helps maintain consistent service levels and reduces the impact of supply chain interruptions.
Communicate with Customers
Action: Inform customers about potential weather impacts and your plans for maintaining service. Provide updates on any changes to delivery schedules or operations.
Why It Matters: Keeping customers informed helps manage expectations and maintains trust, even during challenging conditions.
Monitor Weather Alerts
Action: Stay informed about weather conditions and warnings from reliable sources such as the National Weather Service (NWS) and local authorities. Implement any necessary changes based on the latest information.
Why It Matters: Timely updates help you make informed decisions and take appropriate actions to protect both your business and employees.
Resources and Support
For additional information and support, the NPGA and the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) provide valuable resources and guidelines for managing risks associated with tropical storms and hurricanes. These resources can help propane businesses navigate the challenges of severe weather and ensure the safety and continuity of their operations. For more detailed information, refer to the original announcement from NPGA here. Additionally, various helpful resources from PERC offer further guidance on managing severe weather impacts.
