In the energy markets, all sorts of unpredictable happenings – including natural disasters, world crises, weather interruptions, political upheaval, refinery shutdowns, and pipeline failures -- can send fuel prices on a roller coaster ride and adversely affect operations.
4 Risk Mitigating Fuel Strategies to Keep Your Fleet Costs Stable
Tags: Emergency Fueling
Winter Forecast: Don't Let a Chilly Reception Disrupt Your Fleet
In mid-October, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its annual winter outlook for December through February, and the good news is that a mild winter with drier conditions and above-average temperatures could be in store for much of the United States.
The key word, however, is “much.” The outlook for the Southeast, East Coast and Mid-Atlantic is not quite as rosy, with the amount of precipitation expected to be above average and the chances of colder-than-normal temperatures greater than anywhere in the country.
This means — especially for those regions — that snow, ice and freezing temperatures can present numerous challenges for utility fleets. Since winter hazards are not out of the picture this year, neither should your preparations be for winterizing your vehicles and equipment.
Tags: Emergency Fueling
Lessons from Hurricanes and How to Prepare for Disasters
To put the destructive power of nature in perspective, look no further than the damage estimates from Hurricanes Harvey,
Most of the recovery expenses will go toward property damage, but a good bit of those expenses—at least in the case of Harvey and Irma—will also go toward vehicle replacement.
Top Reasons Your Semi-Trucks Are Breaking Down
Truck drivers log 432 billion miles annually, so it’s no surprise that breakdowns are inevitable. Unfortunately, when a truck in your fleet breaks down, you lose time, money and, potentially, client trust if services or products are delayed. Considering how important it is to maintain your fleet, maintenance is top of mind for fleet managers.
It’s a best practice to track maintenance and repairs to determine if your fleet has unique areas that should be addressed immediately. There are, however, several leading causes of
2017 Weather Predictions That Could Affect Your Fuel Availability
With the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season just around the corner—officially beginning June 1 and ending November 30—there is no time like the present to prepare your fleet operations for the weather that Mother Nature might decide to throw your way.
Tags: Emergency Fueling, Fuel Management
How to Prepare for Emergencies with Your Fuel Provider
Spring is peak time for natural disasters such as tornadoes and hurricanes, which can quickly affect your fuel supply and cripple your work. A little preparation now can go a long way when that day comes.
There are two parts to keeping your fleet productive in crisis situations. It starts by having a reliable fuel program partner who understands emergencies. Once you have a reliable partner, work with them to ensure that your needs are met by planning in advance for worst case scenarios – scenarios we all hope will never happen.
Tags: Emergency Fueling
If it seems that your fleet requires refueling more frequently as the mercury slides lower, it’s not your imagination. Colder temperatures and winter driving conditions can mean, among other things, increased idle time, lower tire pressure and heavier rolling resistance, all of which can have a significant impact on fuel economy, no matter how responsible your drivers are or how carefully your vehicles are maintained.
Tags: Emergency Fueling, Fuel Management
The Importance of Attending an Industry Conference
When you receive an email or a card in the mail announcing an industry conference or seminar, you are probably more inclined to hit the delete button. Not all emails will make you sit up and take notice.
There are so many conferences it sometimes seems that there is a conference just to have a conference about an upcoming conference.
Tags: Emergency Fueling
Why Having a Business Continuity Plan Before a Disaster is Important
Hurricanes and other disasters can be devastating to business operations. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) forty percent of businesses do not open after a disaster and another twenty-five percent fail within one year. Pretty alarming statistics.
In fleet operations a disaster such as a hurricane can bring your fleet operations to a grinding halt, destroy property and ruin your reputation. If you think insurance will completely cover the lost revenue and expenses needed to repair the destruction caused by Mother Nature’s handiwork—think again.
Tags: Emergency Fueling
The Importance of a Crisis Communications Plan During a Hurricane or Other Disaster
When a hurricane or disaster strikes, it can create multiple operational challenges. Confusion is rampant and the need to move quickly to contain the mayhem is “job-one,” as both your business and reputation are at stake.
The best defense against disaster is a good offense. When it comes to your fleet operations, taking action and going on the offensive by developing a crisis communications plan should be a top priority.
Why do you need a crisis communications plan? What key elements should be included? For an overview of the basics to help you get started—specifically, audience and messaging—read on.
Tags: Emergency Fueling