We often find out after our place of business has been struck by a disaster that we should have done a better job of planning before hand. Here are some suggestions to disasterproof your business:
- Keep a stock of emergency supplies in a central location, or multiple locations in your business, if needed. Supplies should minimally include a first aid kit, a portable radio, flashlights with batteries, blankets and extra food and water. It is also a good idea to keep a weather alert radio handy so you will know when there is an emergency.
- Be sure to regularly back-up your data and store it off site. Do this for all digital and paper files. They should be kept away from your location.
- Post escape routes. How will your employees exit the building if an emergency arises? Maps should be posted in various areas of your business showing how to exit the building. Hold practice drills regularly and designate a meeting spot outside of the danger area.
- Assemble vital information for a business-continuity plan. Be sure to have everything needed for the busiiness to keep running, from client information to current orders.
- Be sure to have current personal contact information for each employee. This may be the only way you can contact your staff in the event of a disaster.
The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) has created a guide for businesses doing disaster planning. It may be accessed at:
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1689.
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