Natural disasters can cause an array of problems for fleet owners. In addition to the damage that occurs due to the weather event itself, there are also other issues such as flooding, debris and downed trees. While it’s impossible to predict when a disaster could occur, following these steps before a natural disaster strikes will help ensure your fleet is safe and ready if an emergency situation arises.
The significance of having a business continuity plan
We have all experienced some level of uncertainty as a result of changes in our environment, one of which is the increased frequency of weather disasters. Developing a business continuity plan in the event of a natural disaster will become increasingly critical as you strive to manage your fleet.
A business continuity plan is a tool that may assist your business in responding to any crisis that may occur. Businesses are vulnerable to a variety of calamities ranging in severity from minor to catastrophic. Business continuity planning is often intended to assist a firm in continuing to operate in the case of a significant calamity, such as a fire. BCPs differ from disaster recovery plans in that they focus on the recovery of a company’s IT system following a catastrophe.
Having a proactive strategy
Most of the time, the National Weather Service will alert towns of coming storms or natural catastrophes a few days before the storm’s arrival. Fleet organizations must make the most of this period by planning ahead of time for the impending storm. When you know a storm is on its way, keep the following information in mind:
1. What is the storm’s current path?
Check weather forecasts and updates on a regular basis to have a better picture of when it may impact your location.
2. What is the status of your inventory?
Before the storm arrives, replenish any key assets that are getting low.
3. What is the state of your fuel?
During an emergency, fuel is critical. Fill or refill any tanks or vehicles well ahead of time.
In many disaster situations, the fleet department’s major function is to keep first responders and other emergency professionals in the field aiding people. This implies that their cars must be fuelled and in excellent working order. While your present fuelling schedule is likely to operate well under normal conditions, it may backfire in an emergency.
Here are few emergency gasoline preparation tips:
a. Have you notified your primary gasoline source about your fuel emergency plan? This strategy should include fuel demand predictions, pre-planning with local or state emergency authorities, and stand-by fuel supply guarantees.
b. How long do you think your gasoline reserves will last? A 72-hour emergency fuel stockpile should be sufficient. The average response time during an emergency, according to FEMA, is 72 hours.
c. Is your gasoline storage facility secure? In the event of floods or other water damage, purchase water-tight seal covers for your gasoline tanks and vehicles.
4. Where are your gensets?
Check to see whether your firm has backup generator sets and that they are in good operating order.
5. How will you manage non-stock assets or equipment?
It’s possible that you don’t have enough emergency generators and equipment. Plan ahead of time by establishing reciprocal sharing arrangements with adjacent towns or pre-negotiated leasing rates with local businesses.
Fleet Resources
With the knowledge that there would be a quickly increased demand for deliveries and the like during catastrophic occurrences, fleets must consider long-term scaling up to meet this need. Companies must place orders quickly when new automobiles become available again, as they are becoming increasingly difficult to get.
Purchasing used delivery vans might be a possible solution to the fleet automobile problem. During catastrophic events, avoid renting transition vehicles. As an alternative provider for your fleet, working with a truck dealer Oklahoma City people know and trust is a more cost-effective and efficient option.
Conclusion
You may have a great fleet, and you probably take good care of it regularly. But some things are out of your control, including the weather. This article presented you with comprehensive guidance on how to prepare your fleet for a crisis scenario. If you’re looking to buy used delivery vans for your fleet, get in touch with truck dealer Oklahoma City’s Truck N Trailer.
