Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Fleet Operators
The next few weeks will mark the most dangerous and active period of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, making hurricane preparation even more vital for fleet managers and others.
Hurricanes, which form over the water and move inland, can cause high winds, heavy windfall, storm surges, rip currents, tornadoes and flooding.
Penske has assembled a series of tips and resources to help you prepare before a storm strikes and includes next steps to take after the storm.
Peak hurricane season occurs from mid-August through mid-October when a majority of the season's tropical storms and hurricanes occur, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
In its mid-year update released in early August, NOAA's Climate Prediction Center said conditions continue to indicate an above-average Atlantic hurricane season.
The total number of named storms – those with winds gusting 39 mph or greater – is expected to be between 15 to 21.
Of that number seven to 10 are expected to reach hurricane strength with winds reaching 74 mph or greater. When it comes to major hurricanes – Category 3, 4, or 5 with winds 111 mph or greater, the center is predicting between three to five could form.
The Department of Homeland Security, through its Ready national public service campaign, has assembled hurricane preparedness tips for every stage of the storm.
The advice includes evacuation tips, what to include in a disaster supply kit and how to create a family communication plan.
Tips for Penske Consumers and Business Customers
These are some helpful tips for consumers and business customers on what to do before a storm arrives:
- Make safety your number one priority.
- Top off your truck fuel tanks.
- Move trucks to higher ground if in a flood-prone area.
- Stay tuned to local news stations for weather reports.
- Adhere to all travel, road advisories and restrictions.
- Delay travel into impacted areas when possible.
- Know your evacuation routes and have a plan.
Important Penske Information
Contact us if you need assistance with your lease or rental units before or after the storm:
Penske Location and Fuel Finder Tool
24/7 Roadside Assistance: 1-800-526-0798
Consumer Truck Rental Reservations: 1-888-996-5415
Commercial Truck Rental Reservations: 1-800-736-7531
Penske Facilities Questions
Penske takes steps to ensure continued service, but there are times when delays and closures may be necessary due to travel restrictions, weather conditions, power outages or a state of emergency.
Please call our 24/7 Roadside Assistance team at 1-800-526-0798 to confirm the open or closed status of a Penske facility.
Additional Helpful Resources
U.S. DOT National Traffic and Road Closures and Advisories by State
Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA)
FEMA Blog – Emergency Updates and Preparedness
National Hurricane Center Storm Updates
American Red Cross Hurricane Tips
By "Move Ahead" Staff