Flood Facts and Asset Protection for Businesses
Durham Region’s climate is changing. Is your business ready?
Floods happen in Durham Region, and climate change is bringing wetter and wilder weather to the area. This can result in uncertain, unstable, and more extreme flooding conditions which pose unique risks to local businesses year-round, even if you are not located near water. Flooding can lead to:
- Water damage and flooding in commercial or industrial buildings
- Dangerous conditions on roads and highways
- Unexpected interruptions to public transit
- Financial, property, and productivity losses
Increase your resilience
Everyone has a role when it comes to staying safe before, during, and after a flood. Ensure your business or place of work is flood resilient by taking the following steps:
- Identify whether your business may be exposed to flooding by viewing the floodplain viewer.
- Have an emergency plan, like a Business Continuity Plan (check out FloodSmart Canada for examples)
- Talk about your plan with employees/coworkers and prepare everyone to safely navigate flooding at and on the way to/from work
- Keep safety information and kits on hand
- Encourage employees to have a 72-hour emergency preparedness plan for themselves and their families
- Keep a detailed and up-to-date inventory of business assets
- Talk to your insurance broker about flood insurance and to make sure you know what is covered
Resources
Explore the Flood Ready Durham website and the resources below for more information on how you can protect yourself and others you care about:
