MIAMI—More than 25% of Houston's commercial real estate was damaged by Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath. Now, with a stronger Hurricane Irma forecast to hit the Southeast US in the coming days, there are some things building owners and managers should do to prepare. GlobeSt.com caught up with Patrick McGucken, a vice president of the management division of Franklin Street, for some fast advice.

GlobeSt.com: What is the immediate course of action when a watch or warning is issued?

McGucken: All tenants must be advised via their emergency contact numbers on file to take whatever action is necessary at that time and—if necessary—move to your building's pre-designated place of safety. In the event of a mandatory evacuation, all tenants and personnel will be asked to leave the property as quickly as possible. At that time, all vehicles will be removed from the parking garage and other immediate parking areas.

GlobeSt.com: What are the specific responsibilities of tenants and managers in a severe weather event?

McGucken: The tenant is responsible for securing its property and to take every precaution to ensure the safety of employees. Tenants and managers must work quickly and efficiently when a severe weather condition occurs, as most flash flood fatalities occur at night and most victims are people who become trapped in automobiles.

GlobeSt.com: What are the most important supplies to have on hand in case your tenants are stranded in the office during a storm?

McGucken: Stocking the office with non-perishable foods, such as food bars and dehydrated foods, and a three-day supply of purified water is a must. For lighting, make sure to have light sticks, flashlights and flares on hand. Other essential items include batteries, a First Aid Kit, lightweight fire and shock retardant emergency blankets, two-way radios and portable transistor radios and a three-day supply of medications for people who need them.

GlobeSt.com: What else should be on a facility preparation checklist?

McGucken: In advance of a storm, the roof must be thoroughly examined and all equipment such as exhaust fans, wind turbines and air conditioning units securely fastened or strapped down. If the roof has a gravel covering, remove loose gravel to prevent damage to unprotected windows during the storm. Make sure to update all business records that may be removed or protected, along with computer data that will need to be backed up. Other supplies that may be useful include a small emergency generator, plywood to cover large windows and glass doors, waterproof tape, heavy duty plastic sheeting and up to 20 sand bags to prevent the intrusion of water through doorways.
\
(Don't overlook these three insurance coverages.)

GlobeSt.com: What is the immediate course of action when a watch or warning is issued?

GlobeSt.com: What are the specific responsibilities of tenants and managers in a severe weather event?

GlobeSt.com: What are the most important supplies to have on hand in case your tenants are stranded in the office during a storm?

GlobeSt.com: What else should be on a facility preparation checklist?

Instant Insights /

Hurricane Irma: What You Need to Do Right Now

Related Stories

Recommended For You