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Wildfires are no longer just a threat to the western U.S.—increasingly dry conditions and rising temperatures have made them a growing concern across many parts of the country, including Massachusetts. While wildfires may still seem rare in New England, preparedness is key. Taking proactive steps now can help protect your Massachusetts business, your employees, and your property before disaster strikes.
Here are important tips to help safeguard your business during wildfire season. If you have any questions, contact our office at 413.475.7283 or complete our online quote form today!
1. Create a Defensible Space
Clear at least 30 feet of defensible space around your building by removing combustible materials like dry leaves, brush, and woodpiles. Trim trees, especially those with overhanging branches near your roof, and maintain your landscaping to reduce fuel for fires.
2. Inspect Your Building Exterior
Make sure your roof, vents, windows, and siding are constructed or treated with fire-resistant materials. Clean out gutters and roof areas to remove flammable debris. Install mesh screens over vents to prevent embers from entering your building.
3. Review Your Business Continuity Plan
If you don’t already have a business continuity plan, now’s the time to create one. It should include evacuation procedures, emergency contacts, backup of important documents and data, and a plan for maintaining communication with employees and customers during and after a disruption.
4. Keep Important Documents Safe
Back up critical documents—such as insurance policies, customer records, payroll, and accounting files—digitally and store copies off-site or in the cloud. Having quick access to this information can make a big difference in recovery efforts.
5. Maintain Fire Safety Equipment
Make sure your fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and smoke detectors are fully operational. Check expiration dates and schedule regular inspections to ensure everything is in working order.
6. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Wildfires can cause devastating damage to commercial buildings, equipment, and inventory. Review your business insurance policy to ensure your coverage reflects current property values and potential wildfire-related risks. You may also want to discuss business interruption insurance to help keep you afloat if your operations are temporarily shut down.
7. Train Your Team
Your employees should know evacuation routes, emergency meeting spots, and what to do if a wildfire threatens your business. Conduct regular safety drills and keep emergency kits readily available.
While wildfires may not be a daily concern in Massachusetts, it only takes one to cause major disruption. At Encharter Insurance, we’re here to help you prepare your business before the flames even start. Reach out to review your coverage or to learn more about wildfire risk management tailored to your specific needs.
Chat with an Encharter agent about your insurance today:
413.475.7283
Complete our online quote form
Source:
MSA Insurance: Wildfires and Your Business Checklist
