Between January and April, many tanning salons generate up to 50% of their annual revenue. Closing your doors for even a week during this time period could take a huge chunk out of your finances – and drive your customers directly into the hands of your competitors.
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Winter weather can lead to a myriad of problems for your business. The most common and costly insurance claims include:
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- Water leaks
- Wind damage
- Hail damage
- Frozen pipes
- Roof damage from ice & snow
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Schedule an HVAC inspection and tune-up now, before the real cold weather sets in. The most difficult time to deal with a furnace or boiler malfunction is when it’s cold and everyone else is having problems, too.
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Whether or not your business is located in an area of the country that freezes regularly, it’s a good idea to regularly inspect all pipes and fittings to ensure that they are well-insulated and leak-free. If you spot trouble, contact your plumber immediately.
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To reduce the risk of freezing, while also reducing heat costs, insulate outside pipes and seal areas where they enter and exit the building.
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Up on the Roof
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The roof is the most exposed part of the building. Blistering summer heat, frigid cold, rain, and wind eventually compromise the structural integrity of flat and sloped rooftops alike, quickly leading to problems throughout the premises.
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To prevent the need for catastrophic repairs, which always seem to occur when they are the most costly and disruptive, a regular annual inspection is highly recommended.
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If you can easily and safely access the rooftop, you may be able to inspect it yourself and perform preventive maintenance. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to use properly trained professionals.
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Now is the time to take preventative measures and prepare your business for the harsh weather to come – and limit your personal and financial risks.
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Trees & Powerlines
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Make sure that any trees surrounding your property are healthy and well-pruned. If trees are on city property (which many often are) notify local authorities of any overhanging branches, branches in contact with powerlines, dead, or unhealthy-looking trees. It is often their responsibility to take corrective action.
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Windows & Doors
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Inspect all windows and doors to ensure that they are functioning properly, and they close and seal tightly and securely. Check for cracks, breaks or defects that could lead to bigger problems when storms hit and temperatures dip.
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Slip-Sliding Away
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The states with the highest slip & fall claims include: Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois and Minnesota. During the winter, walkways, parking lots, steps and stairways become slip & fall hazards that can pose an expensive legal claim should an incident occur.
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To protect your business, you should be prepared to remove snow as soon as possible and treat sidewalks, walkways, etc., for ice and standing water. Here are some essentials for your action plan.
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- Snow Shovel
- Salt Pellets and Sand
- Non-Slip Door and Floor Mats (for inside/outside)
- Warning Signs
- Flashlights
- Hats, Gloves
- Space Heaters (only during business hours)
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Also note that slip & fall can happen inside your facility. People entering your lobby with wet shoes and clothes can create hazards for themselves, as well as your staff and other customers.
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During periods of snow, ice, rain etc., you must continuously maintain a safe and dry environment. Therefore, it’s a good idea to assign the responsibility to a dependable person to keep all floors clean and dry. This includes lobby and common areas, tanning and spa treatment rooms, bathrooms, vanity areas, etc.
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A series of professional Salon Training Videos, including “How to Prevent Water Damage to Your Salon,” can be viewed at uiprograms.com/tanning.
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