When you operate a business in an area that experiences extreme winter weather, you have to take special precautions to keep your customers safe and your business protected. Ice, snow, and frigid temperatures can force you to temporarily close your business and also place your customers in danger. Take steps to protect your business and your clientele this year.

Smart Thermostats

You can keep your employees and customers more comfortable and save money when you install smart thermostats. These devices allow you to make adjustments to the temperature through your tablet, laptop, and smartphone. You can program them to lower the temperature in the building during the evening hours or days when the business is closed. Some systems will also send you alerts if the temperature in your business goes too high or too low. You can avoid frozen pipes and high energy bills by installing these units.

Snow Removal

If you are a "hands-on" business owner who likes to do their own outdoor work, you will have to arrive well before your business opens to complete your snow removal. Never underestimate the amount of road salt and the number of snow shovels necessary to keep your driveway and sidewalks clear. You might be better served to hire a snow removal company to take care of your walkways and lot so that customers are never faced with a slippery surface. The cost of this service can save you thousands in legal claims against your company.

Liability Insurance

Your business is not truly "weatherproof" unless you are carrying the right liability insurance on your business. Snow and ice lead to many falls during the winter, and these falls can occur both inside and outside of your store. If a customer feels that you were negligent in removing these risks, they might sue you for their injuries. Having enough general liability insurance is important to protect you against these claims, particularly during times of inclement weather. Annual premiums often cost between $750 - $2000, which is quite affordable for most small businesses, especially when you consider what a civil suit might cost you. 

Properly preparing your business for winter can save you money on energy bills while keeping your business open during the worst weather of the year. You will be better able to keep your customers safe when all walkways and lots are clear. In addition, you need to consider your liability insurance part of your winterizing plan. When slip-and-fall season arrives, you need protection from possible legal action.

For general liability insurance, contact a company such as Atlantic Insurance & Benefits.