Protect your business: before, during, and after a wildfire

Before a Wildfire

Employee and business preparedness

• Develop an emergency plan for your business, including evacuation routes and meeting points for employees
• Create a workplace emergency kit with essentials: water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, medications, batteries, chargers, N95 masks, and critical business documents
• Sign up for local emergency alerts (e.g., FEMA, local fire department, and city emergency systems)
• Conduct regular evacuation drills with employees to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency
• Arrange shelter and transportation plans for essential equipment or company vehicles if evacuation is necessary

Property protection

• Clear flammable vegetation and debris within 30 feet of your business property
• Trim trees and remove dead branches near your building to reduce fire hazards
• Clean gutters, roofs, and outdoor equipment regularly to prevent accumulation of flammable material
• Install spark arresters on chimneys and fire-resistant vents if applicable
• Store flammable materials, such as inventory, fuel, and propane tanks, at least 30 feet away from structures
• Ensure your business address and signage are clearly visible from the road for emergency crews

Asset protection

• Photograph or video your business property, equipment, and inventory to create documentation for insurance claims
• Review and update your insurance policies to help ensure you’re properly covered
• Back up important business documents digitally and store these files securely in the cloud or off-site locations

During a Wildfire

Employee and workplace safety

• Monitor emergency alerts and stay informed through local news and official updates
• Evacuate employees and secure the property immediately if ordered or if conditions make staying unsafe
• Encourage employees to wear protective clothing: long sleeves, full pants, goggles, and N95 masks
• Have emergency kits and vehicles ready for immediate evacuation of personnel if needed

Property measures (if time allows)

• Shut all windows and doors (leave them unlocked to allow firefighter access)
• Move flammable furniture, equipment, and inventory away from windows
• Turn off gas, propane, and other fuel supplies
• Leave lights on both inside and outside the building to assist firefighters with locating and protecting your business

After a Wildfire

Employee and workplace recovery

• Wait for official clearance before returning to the business premises
• Avoid hazards such as downed power lines, ash pits, and hot spots
• Wear protective gear, including gloves, boots, and masks, when handling debris or performing cleanup efforts
• Document all property and inventory damage with detailed photos and videos for insurance claims

Property and asset recovery

• Contact your insurance provider immediately to begin the claims process for damages and business interruption
• Save all receipts related to evacuation costs, temporary operations, and repairs for reimbursement
• Inspect the building’s structure, utilities, and water systems to ensure there are no safety risks before resuming business operations
• Replace HVAC filters, clean vents, and conduct smoke damage remediation to remove residue and odors from the premises

Take proactive steps to mitigate loss

By preparing your employees, securing your property, and protecting critical business assets in advance, you can minimize damage, expedite recovery, and help ensure resilience in the face of wildfire threats.

Let us help safeguard your assets and support the future of your business.