Hurricane Quick Facts for Hotels

Stay informed and prepared during hurricane season. Use this one-page reference to understand key facts, forecast outlooks, and warning terminology.

Hurricane Season Dates

• Atlantic Hurricane Season: June 1 – November 30

• Peak Activity: Mid-August through late October

• Regions Affected: Gulf Coast, Southeastern Seaboard, and occasionally inland properties

2025 NOAA Forecast

• 60% chance of an above-normal season

• Anticipated increase in storm frequency and intensity

• Important for all properties to proactively review emergency procedures

Hurricane Wind Categories

• Category 1: 74–95 mph – Minor damage possible

• Category 2: 96–110 mph – Moderate damage

• Category 3: 111–129 mph – Extensive damage

• Category 4: 130–156 mph – Severe damage

• Category 5: 157+ mph – Catastrophic damage

Watch vs. Warning

• Hurricane Watch: Conditions possible within 48 hours. Begin preparations.

• Hurricane Warning: Conditions expected within 36 hours. Finalize all storm prep and activate emergency plans.

Tip: Always monitor updates from NOAA (www.nhc.noaa.gov) and your local emergency management office.

RRI West Employee Handbook

The 2025 RRI West Employee Handbook was released to all employees last Friday, August 15^th via WHG University (special shout out to Training for making that happen!) Friendly reminder that all electronic acknowledgements are to be completed by September 30^th! If you or your employees have any questions on how to sign off, see the job aid below.

How to Acknowledge EE Handbook in WHGU.pdf

Download PDF • 382KB

End-of-Summer Maintenance: Detailed Checklist for a Safe Seasonal Transition

As summer winds down, it’s essential for hotel maintenance teams to conduct a thorough inspection of property systems and equipment to ensure everything is functioning efficiently and safely ahead of the fall season. High temperatures, increased occupancy, and frequent use during the summer months can place additional stress on building infrastructure. Proactive maintenance now can prevent breakdowns, safety issues, and unnecessary costs later.

Key Maintenance Areas to Review:

1. HVAC Systems:

• Clean or replace air filters in guest rooms and public areas.

• Check for refrigerant leaks, clogged drain lines, or corrosion.

• Test thermostats for accuracy and recalibrate if necessary.

• Inspect fan motors and belts for wear and tear.

2. Exterior Lighting and Signage:

• Replace any burned-out bulbs on pathways, entrances, and parking areas.

• Test light sensors and timers to ensure proper dusk-to-dawn functionality.

• Clean lenses and remove obstructions that may dim illumination.

3. Doors and Weather Seals:

• Inspect weather stripping on guest room and exterior doors for damage or gaps.

• Replace worn seals to prevent drafts and energy loss.

• Check door closers and hinges to ensure smooth operation

4. Sidewalks, Stairs, and Handrails:

• Look for cracks, shifting, or uneven surfaces that could pose trip hazards.

• Tighten or replace loose handrails.

• Pressure wash surfaces to remove dirt, mildew, and slippery buildup.

  
  

5. Laundry and Mechanical Rooms:

• Clean dryer vents to prevent lint buildup and reduce fire risk.

• Check water heaters for sediment buildup or corrosion.

• Inspect utility connections, valves, and emergency shutoffs.

  
  

6. Pest Prevention:

• Seal cracks around the foundation, doors, and windows.

• Inspect garbage areas and ensure containers are tightly sealed.

• Schedule routine pest control if not already in place.

Documentation:

All inspections, repairs, and service needs should be documented. Consistent documentation ensures that work orders are tracked and completed in a timely manner, while also supporting compliance and audit-readiness.Maintaining high standards year-round requires attention to seasonal transitions. By taking the time to complete these detailed checks, your property will remain safe, efficient, and guest-ready as we move into the fall season.Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence and safety across all properties.