Prepared for the Storm

For multifamily properties, hurricane season brings more than just bad weather. It often marks the start of a stretch where everything gets harder. Outages, service issues, and equipment strain can all hit at once. Property teams feel it almost immediately.

That’s why Watchtower Security’s approach to managed video surveillance includes proactive planning, responsive service, and a system supported by a team that’s ready when conditions take a turn.

How We Prepare Surveillance Systems Before the Storm Hits

Storm preparation at Watchtower begins with awareness. Our internal teams monitor major weather systems using trusted forecasts and regional alerts. When a storm begins to form, we identify sites in its potential path and reach out to clients in those areas. This proactive contact lets property teams know we’re watching the situation closely and preparing to support their systems.

At the same time, our service and inventory teams work together to review any existing maintenance concerns that could be addressed before the storm arrives. If something can be resolved early, we move quickly to take care of it. Field techs check their supplies and make sure they have the right equipment ready. We stay in close contact with our shipping partners, adjusting deliveries if needed and, in some cases, sending gear directly to areas expected to be hit.

We use monitoring tools that help us detect when a site regains power or internet access. This allows us to act quickly, bring systems back online when possible, and identify any that may still need attention.

We also monitor official updates from trusted sources like the National Hurricane Center and encourage clients to explore additional hurricane preparedness resources from FEMA’s Ready.gov.

Staying Connected and Ready During the Storm

Even in the middle of a storm, our teams stay connected. We track power outage maps, coordinate internally, and maintain open lines with our field technicians. Regional updates help guide the next steps, and our remote teams remain fully available for support and planning.

While site access may be limited during a storm, we stay actively engaged through remote support and coordination. Watchtower teams in unaffected regions step in to handle virtual support, coordinate repair efforts, and prepare for recovery. We also maintain internal reports to track which sites are impacted and which teams are assigned. This helps us respond quickly once conditions improve.

What Happens After the Storm Passes

Once the skies clear, the real work begins. We assess which sites are back online, where equipment may need attention, and what locations experienced the most significant impact. That’s where our managed model makes a big difference.

We begin scheduling service visits and letting property teams know when we will be on site. At the same time, we restock on-hand equipment. It’s a simple step, but one we’ve learned helps expedite response time. Throughout the process, we keep teams aligned on what’s been done, what’s coming next, and what still needs attention.

After every storm, we take a close look at what worked, what didn’t, and what we can do better next time. We document how many sites were impacted, what issues occurred, and how well we were able to respond. These post-storm reviews help us improve our future preparedness.

A Managed Partner You Can Count On

Managed video surveillance is only part of the story. What’s most important is how it performs when conditions become difficult. At Watchtower Security, our systems are backed by teams who stay alert, organized, and ready to respond. As outlined in the 2024 NMHC Risk Survey, insurance challenges and increased risk continue to pressure multifamily operations. Having a reliable, managed surveillance partner can make a difference when it matters most. If you want to see how that works for your property, reach out. We are here to help.