The winter season officially kicks off on Dec. 21st. Yet, many Americans had already endured frigid weather when the first major winter storm of the season brought heavy snow, rain, and thunderstorms to the East Coast Nov. 30th through Dec. 2nd.

Extreme cold, high winds, snow and sleet, and icy roads and sidewalks can spell trouble for a small business.

To ensure small businesses are prepared to stay open and thrive no matter what the winter season brings, AmTrust Financial assembled nine tips to help keep property damage-free and employees safe.