Prepare Your Small Business for Disaster

Owning a small business provides the resourceful owner a lot of flexibility but all the responsibility. You can't be prepared for every eventuality but you can have a game plan to meet some of them. Spend a little time before disaster strikes to create a preparedness guide for you and your employees to use. A small business disaster preparedness guide could be the reference book you need to pick up the pieces faster.

Theft Plan

Thieves will accomplish amazing feats to break into a small business. Doors, windows and ceilings are common entryways for crooks and they may damage your property. You'll need a plan to address break in points, securing breaches and reporting loss. Every business needs a theft recovery plan.

Earthquake Plan

If your business is located in an area prone to earthquakes you need to know the risks associated with this kind of disaster. Your plan should be based on your risk level so consult active earthquake maps. Things to include in your reference book are communications methods, implementing structural actions, preparing for power outages and backup systems.

Tornado Plans

Tornado damage can occur in many places. In your small business disaster preparedness plan include a guide detailing tornado communication systems, evacuation routes, weather alert systems and emergency payroll systems. A list of supplies like generators, batteries and food supplies are necessary too.

Hurricane Preparedness

Hurricanes are lengthy, costly and sometimes confusing. Since they change paths frequently you'll need a contingency plan that covers different scenarios. You may need an emergency evacuation plan for employees. After the storm, expect to submit to inspections and make repairs. Since these storms can be lengthy you may need to protect vital customer records and information systems. Create a diagram to explain where shutters and plywood should be located.

Wildfire Preparation

Ensure the safety of property and employees with a wildfire emergency plan. Your employees need to know where extinguishers are located and how to work them. Know where the water supply is and how to access it. Tool lists and their locations may be necessary. Include tools like rakes, shovels, buckets and flame retardant suits.

Consult your insurance company to know what your liability limitations are. Visit the Prepare My Business website or the Small Business Organization disaster preparation resource page.