Photo illustration of digital road sign in front of lightning with text Are You Prepared ? to convey a concept of preparedness for severe weather and

Chainsaws, generators, snow throwers, utility type vehicles (UTVs), water pumps, and other types of outdoor power equipment help business owners maintain properties and clean up after storms or weather-related emergencies. Business owners are urged to be ready by following safe equipment usage tips and checklists to help them prepare for today’s unpredictable weather.

“Bad weather can hit anytime, anywhere, so plan for it,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute and its hub WeatherItBetter.com. “With any weather event, like hurricanes, snow and ice, we usually know they’re coming. Get fresh fuel, charge batteries, and test outdoor power equipment in advance so you’re powered up and ready to use it. If the power goes out, you can’t get those things easily.”

In particular, says OPEI, when using a portable generator, facility managers should make sure they have weather-approved extension cords that keep it a safe distance from the building and users follow all manufacturer’s guidelines. 

Kiser says storm preparation boils down to thinking strategically about what equipment is needed.

“Our industry is constantly evolving and innovating, and there’s a lot of equipment on the market today that can make big jobs easier, to help you ‘weather it better’ when storms hit,” says Kiser. “But you need to have the right equipment on hand before damaging weather hits.”

When the power goes out, a generator can keep the lights on and phones charged. A utility type vehicle can move people and supplies quickly, and a water pump can get out flood waters from low-lying areas. String trimmers, leaf blowers, and mowers can remove combustible material away from a structure. Chainsaws and pole pruners can take down dead limbs and trim trees and bushes.

“Safety gear and following manufacturer’s directions is key to using outdoor power equipment,” adds Kiser. “It’s important to ensure everyone who uses equipment knows and follows all safety procedures.”