Following the recent flooding in North Queensland, with towns like Ingham hit particularly hard, the importance of flood preparation is clearer than ever. As local communities begin the long process of recovery, insurance experts emphasize the critical role of brokers and businesses in mitigating flood risks. Here are the nine key steps businesses can take to prepare for flood events:
Develop a Flood Action Plan
Creating a Flood Emergency Response Plan (FERP) is essential for ensuring a clear response during an emergency. This plan should detail evacuation procedures, communication strategies, and assign roles to staff members. Having a structured plan in place ensures a quicker, more organized reaction when floodwaters rise.
Train Your Flood Response Team
A team that’s well-trained and prepared is the best defense against flood risks. Regular drills help ensure that emergency responders know how to handle flood emergencies, making the response more efficient when the situation arises.
Know Your Flood Risk
It’s crucial to understand your specific flood risk. Know how much warning time you can expect, the potential depth of floodwaters, and which areas of your property are most vulnerable. This awareness empowers businesses to take proactive steps to mitigate damage.
Safeguard Your Valuables
Relocate high-value items to safer areas or elevate them above anticipated flood levels. This precaution can help minimize the financial loss during flooding events and ensure that critical assets remain protected.
Maintain Clear Drainage
Ensure that all drains, including roof, floor, and yard drains, are regularly inspected and cleared of blockages. Good drainage prevents water buildup and reduces the risk of flooding in and around your facility.
Reinforce Your Defences
Install approved flood abatement products such as barriers and flood-resistant materials to fortify your facility against potential floodwaters. Strengthening the building’s defenses can help mitigate damage to the structure and contents.
Stay Alert
Constant vigilance is crucial during flood events. Closely monitor weather and flood conditions, and keep your emergency response team leader informed so that they can initiate the plan quickly if needed.
Elevate or Relocate
Relocate stock, equipment, and vehicles to higher ground or areas safe from floodwaters. For critical infrastructure that cannot be moved, invest in flood-proofing measures to minimize potential damage.
Power Down When Needed
If flooding is imminent, shut off electricity and gas connections to reduce the risk of electrical fires or gas leaks. Taking this step can safeguard both your property and your employees during an emergency.
The Importance of Brokers in Flood Risk Preparation
According to Mike Hunneyball, operations chief engineer for FM, brokers play a crucial role in helping clients understand and prepare for flood risks. Not only do brokers help customers implement flood preparedness plans, but they also provide guidance on how to minimize damage and business disruption. Additionally, businesses that are well-prepared for floods may also receive better insurance terms, giving them a competitive edge in their recovery efforts.
Challenges Brokers Face
One of the primary challenges insurance brokers face when encouraging clients to develop a Flood Emergency Response Plan (FERP) is the tendency for businesses to underestimate the risk. Many businesses, especially smaller ones, might not view flood risks as immediate threats until they experience an event. Brokers must emphasize the long-term benefits of preparedness—both in terms of minimizing physical damage and securing better insurance terms—while working to overcome resistance or complacency.
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