How to Prepare Your Fleet for Severe Weather

When severe weather threatens, it’s important to have a plan to keep your employees and vehicles safe. Whether you’re facing a blizzard, hurricane, or earthquake, your preparedness can make all the difference.

Your needs may vary depending on the size and location of your fleet, so it’s vital to explore your options and find the best plan for your company. For an idea of where to start with your emergency preparations, take a look at the tips below.

1. Track your fuel

While you need to keep your vehicle tanks full, it’s also important to gather fuel for generators and other uses. Fuel is often costly and hard to find before a major weather event, so the earlier you can start filling up, the better.

2. Prepare your fleet vehicles

If you’re expecting a storm and/or potential flooding, make sure your vehicles are on high ground. You’ll also want to make sure your vehicles are in good condition. Check lights, wipers, tires, fluid levels, and more to ensure they’ll work when you need them to. Depending on the weather, you may also want to place vehicles under protection from debris and hail.

3. Check your insurance policy

As extreme weather approaches, you should know what your policy covers and what your responsibility is. Take pictures of your vehicles, both inside and out, for proof of pre-storm conditions.

4. Train your drivers

Though they will hopefully stay out of the worst of the weather, your employees may need to drive during extreme conditions. Help them stay safe and avoid trouble by educating your team on best driving practices and the dangerous situations they may face. It’s also a good idea to provide a list of emergency numbers. Go over your company’s policies for extreme weather to avoid any potential tragedies and liabilities.

5. Stay in touch

If your headquarters receive the brunt of the storm, have a plan for staying in touch with any drivers that are on the road. If you have drivers experiencing dangerous conditions, make sure you actively track their locations and well-being. The better your communication, the safer you can keep your drivers and team. Share information about current conditions and check in with each other to provide a safety network for those under your care.

Have you created a severe weather plan for your fleet? Tell us about it below!