Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage to fleets, particularly in vulnerable regions. Protecting your vehicles and drivers during hurricane season (June 1 to November 30) is essential to maintaining business operations. Here’s how to keep your fleet safe when the storms roll in.
The Impact of Hurricanes on Fleets
Hurricanes bring torrential rain, high winds, flooding, and debris, making travel perilous. According to the Federal Highway Administration, 21% of yearly crashes are weather-related, often due to conditions like rain, fog, and wind—all common during hurricanes. With experts predicting an increase in hurricane frequency, preparing your fleet is more critical than ever.
7 Essential Steps to Prepare Your Fleet for Hurricane Season
1. Secure an Emergency Fuel Supply
Fuel shortages and price surges are common during hurricanes. Prepare by:
- Filling vehicle tanks before the storm.
- Planning efficient routes to conserve fuel.
- Using fuel reserves only when necessary.
- Partnering with reliable fuel suppliers.
2. Develop an Emergency Plan
Outline safe stopping points and parking locations for trailers, ideally on high ground. Park empty trailers between loaded ones to prevent wind damage.
3. Plan Evacuation Routes
Identify and share evacuation routes provided by emergency management departments in coastal states.
4. Create Driver Safety Kits
Equip each vehicle with essentials like non-perishable food, water, flares, flashlights, paper maps, cash, spare clothes, and battery-powered chargers.
5. Locate Nearby Shelters
Use fleet management technology to direct drivers to the closest hurricane shelters when needed.
6. Monitor Road Conditions in Real-Time
Stay updated on road closures, downed power lines, and flooding. After the storm, continue monitoring for hazards like gas leaks and washed-out roads.
7. Allow Extra Travel Time
Account for delays caused by road closures and traffic to ensure driver safety without the pressure to rush.
Rand McNally Solutions for Hurricane Preparedness
Rand McNally offers advanced fleet management technology that helps you:
- Track vehicles during and after hurricanes.
- Optimize routes to conserve fuel.
- Ensure driver safety with real-time updates.
Request a quote today to equip your fleet with the tools needed for hurricane season. For more information, visit our fleet management solutions page.
Stay prepared, stay safe, and keep your fleet on the move with Rand McNally.
