Hurricane Readiness: Essential Preparation for Landscape Contractors

Hurricane season brings a host of challenges for landscape contractors. Preparing is essential not only for the safety of your team but also for protecting your clients' properties from the severe impacts of strong winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding.

Stay Informed and Prepared

The first step in hurricane readiness is staying informed. Monitoring weather updates and understanding the specifics of a hurricane's path and timing are crucial for making timely preparations. This knowledge helps you decide when to mobilize your team and what actions to prioritize.

Documentation and Site Photos

Before a storm hits, make sure to document the current state of all jobsites. Taking before-and-after photos not only helps assess the damage post-storm but also aids in insurance claims and client reports. Ensure that all team members are trained on what photos to take and how to store them securely.

Developing a Contractor's Readiness Plan

A comprehensive readiness plan should include:

• Clear communication channels: Assign specific tasks to team members and specify how they should communicate information during a hurricane. This information includes designating a point person for weather updates and decisions on deploying resources.
• Safety protocols: Detail safety measures for securing equipment and protecting job sites. Plan for securing loose materials that could become hazardous in strong winds.
• Emergency contact list: Maintain a list of all team members' contact information, along with contacts for emergency services, local utilities, and key clients.

Checklist of Essential Supplies

Prepare a kit of essential supplies that you can deploy when needed. Here's a checklist of items that every landscape contractor should have ready:

Personal protective equipment (PPE):

• Hard hats
• Safety goggles
• Waterproof gloves
• Waterproof boots

Cleanup and recovery tools:

• Wheelbarrows
• Trash bags
• Shovels
• Brooms
• Rakes
• Water pumps
• Hoses
• Tarps

How HLSG Can Help

Heritage Landscape Supply Group offers a variety of products that aid in preparation and recovery efforts. We have the essentials to support your hurricane readiness strategy, from PPE to ensure the safety of your team during cleanup to tools and supplies that help restore landscapes post-storm. 

After the Storm

Once the hurricane has passed, the recovery process begins. Use your preparedness plan and documented photos to assess damage, begin cleanup, and communicate with clients about their landscape recovery process. Prioritize safety and ensure all team members are accounted for and equipped with the necessary tools and PPE.

Preparing for hurricane season is non-negotiable for landscape contractors. By staying informed, preparing adequately, and having the right supplies, you can mitigate the impacts of hurricanes on your operations and client properties.