Why Should Your Business Develop a Disaster Plan?
According to the Small Business Administration, 25% of businesses do not re-open after a disaster. Most of these failed businesses did not have a disaster plan in place.Small business disaster preparedness planning is easier than you think.
Disasters Can Include:
- Floods
- Wild Fires
- Wind Damage
- Earthquakes
- Civil Unrest
- Emergency contact information on all employees.
- Contact information for key vendors and clients.
- A plan to continue operating after a disaster; this may include a secondary location.
- Determine what operations are critical and need to continue, and which activities are not.
- Have a clear evacuation plan and general meeting area for staff.
- Make sure you have a disaster kit that includes water, blankets, flashlights, and other safety equipment.
- Have a plan for the security of personal information.
- If you have any hazardous materials, make sure you have a plan to manage spills.
- Have a communication plan for clients, suppliers, employees, and the community.