As winter quickly approaches, it’s crucial to prepare your facility’s interior and exterior for freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. Keeping your HVAC systems in check, minimizing heat loss, and managing snow and ice will ensure your building remains safe and accessible throughout the season. Let’s cover everything you need to stay ahead of unexpected storms:

Stay Alert: Keep an Eye on the Forecast

Winter storms in the Pacific Northwest can sneak up on you like a sudden snowball to the face. Staying in the know means you can respond before the storm hits. Keep an eye on these reliable sources:

• • The Farmer’s Almanac: A great source for long-term weather predictions.

• • National Weather Service Alerts: Stay updated with real-time alerts for your region.

Interior Preparations

Protecting the interior of your facility is just as crucial as preparing the exterior. Here’s where to focus your efforts:

• • Generator Safety: Make sure your backup power systems are in top shape—test them regularly and follow safety protocols to prevent fire hazards and carbon monoxide exposure.

• • HVAC Systems: Keep your HVAC systems running smoothly by inspecting and servicing them early. Clean air filters, test thermostats, and schedule any maintenance before the temperature drops to avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs when you need heat the most.

• • Floor Safety: Tracking snow and debris indoors? Monitor floors and mop up regularly to avoid slip-and-fall hazards near entrances. Don’t forget to place safety signage consistently to remind visitors to tread carefully.

Exterior Preparations

Winter weather can be hard on your facility’s exterior, so proactive maintenance goes a long way in minimizing damage and ensuring safety. Here’s where to focus your attention:

• • Irrigation Systems: Winterize your irrigation system to prevent damage from freezing water expansion. Proper preparation keeps pipes and sprinklers safe, so they’re good to go when spring rolls around.

• • Ice Management: Prevent slips and falls by staying on top of ice buildup on walkways, parking lots, and entryways. Develop a solid de-icing plan and be mindful of low spots or cracks where water can freeze and create hazards.

• • Windows and Doors: Drafty seals can lead to heat loss and higher energy bills. Inspect windows and doors for gaps, and seal or repair them to boost energy efficiency and keep your indoor spaces cozy.

• • Roof Inspection: A little attention to your roof now can prevent big problems later. Look for weak spots, leaks, or areas where snow could accumulate and cause damage.

• • Tree Maintenance: Trim low-hanging branches and keep an eye on trees near power lines to avoid damage from high winds or ice storms.

• • Drainage: Ensure water flows properly to avoid flooding from excessive rain or melting snow. Clear out drains and fix any spots where water tends to pool.

These steps will help keep your facility safe and operational throughout the winter, so you can focus on what matters most—maintaining smooth operations.

Comprehensive Winter Plan

Creating a strong winter weather plan ensures your facility remains safe, operational, and accessible during the toughest conditions. Consider these critical questions as you develop your strategy:

• • Snow Events: Will your facility remain open during heavy snowfall, or will you close temporarily? Have you defined the criteria for making this decision? What is your plan for post-storm cleanup?

• • Snow Removal: Who’s responsible for clearing snow and ice? Do you have a reliable team or contractor ready to handle snow plowing and shoveling?

• • Employee Expectations: What are your expectations for staff during severe weather? Will employees be required to come to work, or can they work remotely?

• • Customer Accessibility: How will you ensure visitors can safely access your facility? Do you have plans to manage icy walkways, parking lots, and entryways?

• • Emergency Preparedness: Is your facility ready for unexpected events like power outages or severe storms? Have you outlined clear procedures for keeping your business running?

• • Communication: How will you keep everyone informed? A clear communication plan ensures that staff, customers, and stakeholders know about real-time changes, closures, or emergency updates.

By addressing these questions, you can create a comprehensive winter plan that minimizes disruptions and ensures safety for everyone.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Preparing your facility now means you’ll be ready to take on whatever winter throws your way. By addressing interior and exterior vulnerabilities, keeping an eye on the forecast, and having a solid winter plan in place, you’ll protect your business, employees, and customers from the season’s worst. Stay one step ahead of the storm, and breeze through winter!

Need help? Contact us today to discuss how MSNW can support your winter facility maintenance needs.   

Download Our Winter Facility Preparation Checklist

Take the guesswork out of winter preparations, and stay ahead of the storm. Download our comprehensive checklist to ensure your facility is safe and operational this winter.