When Should I Start Preparing My Business for Hurricane Season?
Have you ever been caught off guard by a hurricane? If you’re like most people, the answer is probably yes. And if your business is located in an area that’s prone to hurricanes, then it’s important to start preparing for hurricane season well before the storms hit. So when should you start preparing your business for hurricane season? The short answer is: as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the less time you’ll have to make necessary preparations. Here are 10 things you can do to get started:
- Review your business continuity plan and make sure it’s up-to-date: If a hurricane hits, you’ll need to be able to continue operations as normally as possible. Make sure your business continuity plan includes strategies for dealing with power outages, damage to your building, and lost or damaged inventory.
- Stock up on hurricane supplies: Have enough food, water, flashlights, batteries, and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours.
- Protect your property: Make sure your building is hurricane-proof and that all your equipment is securely stored. For example, you may want to invest in hurricane straps to keep your roof from blowing off.
- Set up a backup power system: If the power goes out, you’ll need a way to keep your business running. A backup power system can be as simple as a generator or as complex as a full-blown solar power system.
- Create an emergency communication plan: If the hurricane knocks out your phone or internet service, you’ll need a way to communicate with employees, customers, and suppliers. Make sure everyone knows who to call in case of an emergency.For example, you may want to designate someone to act as a central contact point.
- Backup your data: If your computer or server is damaged by a hurricane, you’ll lose all your data. Make sure you have a backup plan in place.
- Update your insurance policies: Make sure your business is fully insured against hurricane damage. It will help you rebuild and get back up and running faster.
- Train your employees: Make sure your employees know what to do in case of a hurricane. They should know where to go, what to do, and how to contact you in case of an emergency.
- Order hurricane signage: Put up hurricane signage in your business to let customers know you’re prepared for the storm.
- Stay informed: Keep track of hurricane forecasts and be prepared to evacuate if necessary. For example, if a Category 3 hurricane is headed your way, it’s time to start packing up and heading for the shelter.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your business is prepared for hurricane season. And if a storm does hit, you’ll be glad you took the time to prepare.
If you’re looking for ways to improve your business’ resilience in the event of a hurricane, consider partnering with ITS Group. ITS Group has the expertise and resources to help your business stay connected and productive even in the midst of a hurricane. Contact them today at (941) 727-4487 to learn more.