5 Tips for Preparing Your Business for Any Disaster

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Disaster preparedness is an essential part of your long-term success plan.

5 Tips for Preparing Your Business for Any Disaster

When you're planning all of the logistics for getting your business up and running, it's important to add "prepare for disasters" to your to-do list. Disaster preparedness is an essential part of your long-term success plan. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, 25% of businesses don't open again after a disaster. Here are five things you can do to be prepared to face anything that comes your way.

1. Prepare to Prevent
Some disasters can be avoided. Conduct regular maintenance and inspections of your property and address any issues quickly. Other disasters, such as natural floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes, can't be avoided despite your best plans. Know the risks in Islamorada, FL, and prepare for those as best you can.

2. Protect Records
Don't leave records in a pile on your desk to deal with "someday." Use a physical safe that is water- and fire-proof or an online storage system that allows you to easily retrieve data from anywhere.

3. Keep Current Coverage
Check-in with your insurance company annually to ensure that your business preparedness plan is covered by the proper insurance policies. As your company grows, re-evaluate your needs and adjust coverage as appropriate.

4. Communicate Evacuation Plan
A disaster preparedness plan is only effective if it is widely known by your staff. Share your plan, practice it, and review it regularly. Ensure that it is a part of new staff orientation. Keep a current list of emergency contact numbers for each staff member in a safe place, as well as a second copy off-site or digitally.

5. Stay Up to Date
If it's been a few years since you last assessed your business preparedness plan, it's time for a refresher. Ensure that your plans are still relevant and up to date with the latest guidance. It's also a good idea to have the number of an emergency restoration company handy to get help as soon as possible in the event of a disaster.
Anything can happen to your business, but you can take measures to avoid lasting consequences. Disaster preparedness can help to solidify long-term success.