How to Prepare Your Business for a Disaster

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, in life, accidents happen and disasters strike. All too often, these types of events happen when we least expect it. Luckily, we can prepare in advance to defend ourselves against things getting to the absolute worst point they possibly can.

Business owners face a special type of risk when considering accidents or disasters. If they do not prepare for mishaps and consider how they will respond in trying times, they could face even more loss and expend more resources than necessary. Unfortunately, as many as 50% of businesses close following a disaster. When it comes to creating an emergency preparedness plan for your business, there are several elements that every business owner should consider in order to best protect their property, assets, and employees. Here are several steps you can take so that you are prepared in the event that misfortune does strike:

-Conduct a risk assessment of your business. Consider what threats your business is most vulnerable to. Take into account a number of factors, such as what type of business you conduct and environmental factors so you can make informed decisions when considering the costs and benefits of different plans to implement.

-Create an action plan for emergencies. If you own a business where employees or customers could be present when an unfortunate decision takes place, we are sure that all your employees are aware of the emergency exits in your building. Make sure that they understand all expectations and responsibilities that may be placed on them during an emergency, given the specific circumstances.

-If you live in an area where you are especially susceptible to natural disasters such as tornadoes or hurricanes, make sure that everyone knows where the appropriate place to take shelter is. Additionally, keep an appropriate amount of essential supplies on hand. Encourage your employees to create their own emergency kits.

-Regularly review your insurance policy. Make sure you have emergency coverage. This can help protect you from potential extreme (and sometimes, unnecessary) financial loss.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Troy/Andalusia is here for whatever happens, but we are also here to help you be “ready for whatever happens.” We can help you develop an Emergency READY profile so that you have an immediate plan of action to help you minimize business interruption and to complete mitigation in a timely manner.