Post Storm Recovery Guide

Recovering from a major storm is a process that begins the moment the winds die down and the community enters the "trying to get back to normal" phase of recovery. This transition requires a balance between the urgency of restoring operations and the patience to ensure that every step is taken safely and systematically. By following a structured approach, organizations and individuals can navigate the complexities of post-storm challenges while protecting their personnel and assets.

The recovery process should prioritize facility inspections and structural assessments to mitigate further damage. The immediate goal is establishing road access to the facility so that emergency services and necessary staff can reach the site safely. After external access is secured, attention should shift to public areas such as the lobby to ensure they are safe for occupancy. It is equally vital to check low-visibility zones, including closets and storage areas, as these are often the first places where roof leaks become apparent. 

During these walkthroughs, do not turn on any electrical items or appliances unless they have been thoroughly checked and confirmed to be completely dry.

For those managing hotels, every vacant room requires an individual inspection, with particular focus on the areas surrounding sliding doors. If carpets have become saturated, they must be addressed immediately; failing to do so can result in persistent musty odors or cause water to leak through to the floors below. Beyond the initial walkthrough, a second inspection should be scheduled one to two months later. This follow-up is necessary because certain types of damage, such as floor tiles curling or coming loose, may only manifest long after the storm has passed.

Throughout this process, documentation is a critical component of the recovery phase. If the company has sustained any damages, these must be carefully documented and reported to the insurance company as soon as possible. Each department should also participate in a formal review to identify which actions did not go well during the preparation phase. If operations continued throughout the storm, departments must report any specific issues encountered and the subsequent actions taken to resolve them. This internal reporting should culminate in a full inspection of all departmental areas to ensure every instance of damage is recorded.

The human element of recovery is just as important as the structural one. Before resuming full operations, check with employees to see if they are able to come in or if they have sustained personal damage that requires their attention at home. For staff members who have suffered losses, resources are often available through FEMA and nonprofit organizations like the Red Cross. Employees should be encouraged to check with their respective mayors to determine what specific help is available in their local communities.

Safety must remain the primary concern during the entire cleanup effort. Stay away from downed electrical lines, as they may become suddenly charged while crews are working on the grid. When working in dark or unlit areas of the building, always use flashlights rather than candles or other open flames to prevent fires. Furthermore, be wary of unsolicited repair offers that appear shortly after a storm. It is essential to confirm the legitimacy of any contractor and remain skeptical of offers that seem unusually low, as the adage suggests that if an offer seems too good to be true, it likely is. Finally, ensure that water usage is cleared by health or water officials before consumption, especially if service was interrupted, and continue to practice good hygiene throughout the recovery process.

For more information on staying safe and managing the recovery process, please visit https://www.weather.gov/ffc/afterstorm.