Store Protection Tips for F&B Owners During Storm and Flood Season

Storm Wipha is showing signs of gradually moving from Quang Ninh toward Nghe An. At this time, F&B business owners should urgently implement preventive measures to protect their stores, assets, and ensure overall safety.

Especially for coastal-area establishments, owners may consider temporarily suspending operations during periods of severe storms to ensure the safety of both customers and staff.

For F&B outlets in areas less directly affected, operations may continue. However, it is essential to ensure the following measures are in place to operate safely and avoid unfortunate consequences.

1. Inspect and Reinforce Facilities

1.1. Main Doors and Glass Doors

Inspect all main doors, windows, and especially glass doors. If any door shows signs of instability, use plywood approximately 1.5 cm thick to shield the glass from the outside, or reinforce the door frame with wooden or metal bars.

For glass doors and windows, apply protective tape in an “X,” diamond, or rectangular pattern across the glass surface. This helps reduce wind pressure and limits glass shattering into sharp fragments in the event of impact.

Check and replace rubber seals or apply additional silicone sealant to tightly close gaps between glass and frames, preventing rainwater from seeping inside.

1.2. Drainage System

Ensure that all drainage systems are thoroughly cleaned to prevent blockages and water buildup during heavy rainfall or flooding.

2. Properly Shut Down Electricity and Gas

In the event of severe storms or flooding, immediately turn off the main power supply and unplug all electrical devices. For equipment such as POS machines, computers, coffee or tea machines, once unplugged, store them in dry areas or seal them in waterproof bags.

For restaurants using gas stoves, make sure to shut off the main gas valve and inspect gas lines for cracks or leaks.

3. Inventory and Goods Protection

When storm or flood warnings are issued, protecting raw materials and inventory becomes a top priority to minimize spoilage and loss. Move dry goods, ingredients, and supplies to higher shelves or upper floors. Prioritize using plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes, which are easily damaged by water.

Try to use up perishable items such as fresh vegetables, meat, fish, and seafood as much as possible. Owners may consider running short-term promotions to accelerate consumption.

For items requiring refrigeration, prepare backup solutions in case of power outages. Options include dry ice, thermal bags, or insulated containers to temporarily preserve food stored in refrigerators or freezers.

4. Prepare Essential Supplies

Restaurant owners should prepare the following essential items to handle emergency situations, maintain communication, and facilitate post-storm cleanup:

• Emergency kit: Flashlights, spare batteries, first-aid supplies (bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, etc.).

• Waterproof bags: To protect important documents such as business licenses, contracts, permits, cash, and personal electronic devices like mobile phones and power banks.
• Sandbags: To block doorways and windows, preventing floodwater from entering the premises—especially in low-lying areas.
• Communication devices: Ensure mobile phones and power banks are fully charged. In prolonged power outages, these may be the only means of staying connected and receiving updates.
• Cleaning tools: Shovels, brooms, and cleaning equipment will help speed up the removal of mud, debris, and standing water after the storm passes.

5. Information Updates & Staff Coordination

Restaurant owners should use communication channels such as Zalo Official Accounts or Fanpages to clearly announce opening or closure schedules, while also sharing any operational challenges the business is facing.

Additionally, provide safety warnings and information about unsafe travel routes. This not only helps customers plan ahead but also demonstrates professionalism and care.

From a staffing perspective, owners should create an internal group to update storm conditions and store status. Assign 1–2 staff members to monitor the premises during the storm if conditions allow.

6. Conclusion: Proactive Storm Preparedness and Swift Recovery

F&B owners should proactively implement storm-prevention measures and strictly follow guidance and recommendations from local authorities to minimize potential damage and risks.

iPOS.vn hopes these recommendations will help restaurants, eateries, and cafés stay safe and recover quickly during the storm season.