What are the biggest threats to your company?

What are the biggest threats to companies today? Take a look at this list of the top small business insurance claims. It’s a great way to identify some of the most common — and expensive — setbacks businesses face. Here are the top five:

1. Burglary and theft. This comprises 20 percent of all small business claims. What’s surprising to many small business owners is that theft can — and often occurs — from within. That’s why when hiring employees it’s always important to conduct background checks as well as create workplace policies designed to prevent internal theft.
2. Water and freezing damage. Even if you live in an area that doesn’t get snow or ice in the winter, you still can have freezing pipes. That’s why it’s important that even during the hours you and your employees aren’t in the office, that you maintain an adequate indoor temperature. Even during the warm-weather months, water disasters are all too common. Do your key employees know the location of the water shut-off valve? That’s important information that can prevent further damage in the event of a water-related problem.
3. Wind and hail. Inspect trees annually and always after an episode of high winds. Be sure to secure or lock down any outside equipment as these could become flying projectiles on windy days.
4. Fire. Fire damage is one of the most common small business claims. Fires can start small. Do you and your employees know how to use a fire extinguisher? (It’s not as easy as it looks!) Also, does your facility have adequate fire detection and suppression equipment?
5. Slips and falls. Slips and falls are one of the leading causes of unintentional injuries in the United States, accounting for nearly 9 million visits to emergency rooms nationwide each year. Here are some great ways to prevent your employees and your customers from slipping and falling at your place of work.