HOUSTON – Only 18% of fuel-centered businesses have an emergency preparedness plan. During National Preparedness Month, FuelQuest encourages retailers to develop their own plans to help them during natural disasters and other emergencies. FuelQuest’s “Tips for Fuel Supply Success” will help retailers weather any “STORM.”

“Pre-planning and coordinating fuel preparedness with your fuel suppliers and carriers, contracting at volume, establishing a communication network with local government and emergency management officials, and ensuring that you have backup power supply such as generators should all be part of any disaster preparedness plan,” Ryan Mossman, vice president and general manager of FuelQuest’s Fuel Services, told NACS Daily.

S is for Secure secondary and tertiary supply options. Severe weather often disrupts fuel supplies and distribution routes.

T is for Top off tanks. When severe weather is in the forecast, retailers should make sure all fuel tanks are filled.

O is for Obtain backup generators. As Hurricane Sandy demonstrated last fall in the Northeast, power can be knocked out for weeks.

R is for Remain compliant with state anti-gouging laws. Fuel retailers, along with other businesses, should be cognizant of state laws regarding excessive price hikes during emergencies.

M is for Maintain constant communication with suppliers and carriers. Keep in contact with supplier and distributors before, during and after severe weather.

Surviving and thriving natural disasters goes much smoother when retailers have a fuel preparedness plan. NACS has resources to help develop yours today.