Prepare Your Community For Winter Weather Emergencies
DALLAS — October 18, 2023 — Associa, the community management industry’s largest company, is dedicated to helping homeowners associations (HOAs) and managed communities create attractive and welcoming environments that maximize resident quality of life. A knowledgeable and informed board of directors is key to a successful, well-run HOA. These tips are designed to help your community prepare for the upcoming winter season with minimal disruptions.
Assess Your Community's Potential for Risk & Damage
Winter weather risk is highly specific to each community. Assess how a weather event can impact your community and residents. Factors to consider include:
- Community location and layout
- Type of association
- Demographics of community’s residents
- Types of buildings and mechanical equipment
Identify Potential Winter Weather Issues
Identify specific risks winter weather poses for the community, such as:
- Power outages
- Burst pipes due to exposure to below freezing temperatures
- Dangerous roads or walkways from ice and snow build-up
- Risk of carbon monoxide poisoning
- Improper heating through unsafe space heaters and fireplaces
Create a Winter Weather Emergency Committee
This committee will facilitate outreach and create a plan that can be quickly and easily implemented when problems arise. Points to consider include:
- Budget and contracts for snow and ice removal
- Processes for ensuring common areas are free of hazards
- Procedures for handling power outages
- Communication with homeowners
- Review regulatory provisions and insurance coverage
- Any vulnerable homeowners who may require special assistance
Make a Winter Weather Plan
Create a manual for homeowners and first responders with all steps the community must take during an emergency. Some information to include in your plan:
- Locations of shut-off valves for water in the case of a burst pipe
- Location and instructions for alternative heating methods, such as space heaters or fireplaces
- Snow removal contract and vendor contact information
- List of responsibilities for the board, committee, and homeowners
Help Community Members Prepare
Education and advance planning go a long way in preparing for any emergency situation. These are some tips to help residents prepare.
- Educate community members on what to do in specific situations.
- How to create and what to include in an emergency preparedness kit
- Put winter weather plan in writing and share with board of directors and residents.
- Advise homeowners how emergency communication will be delivered.
Be Prepared for All Potential Weather Events
To be fully prepared for any situation, download Associa’s e-book, “Disaster Preparedness: Creating a Plan for Your Community.” It includes additional details and insight to help you make informed plans that keep your community and its residents safe any time of year.
About Associa
With more than 275 branch offices across North America, Associa is building the future of community for more than 6.5 million residents worldwide. Our 14,000+ team members lead the industry with unrivaled education, expertise, and trailblazing innovation. For more than 44 years, Associa has brought positive impact and meaningful value to communities. To learn more, visit www.associaonline.com.
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