Ask SCORE– What if the “Worst That Can Happen” Happens to You?
When Hurricane Sandy roared through the Northeastern U.S. in October 2012, few small businesses escaped unscathed. Many were left without power and Internet access for weeks, while others sustained severe damage to facilities and equipment. And even those businesses able to reopen dealt with disrupted supply chains, and limited access to gasoline and other commodities.
Sandy’s multi-billion dollar impact on the Northeast’s economy is the latest reminder that every small business needs a disaster management strategy. Though the likelihood of certain events will vary by location, your ability to take action is not always the same. For example, those in Sandy’s path had several days to prepare; victims of tornados, earthquakes, or fires rarely have any.
Here are some tips for developing a disaster management strategy for your small business:
Take an all-hazards approach. Consider the potential of both natural events (e.g., hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and ice storms) as well as man-made disasters such as fires, toxic material spills, civil unrest, and terrorism.
Develop operational contingency plans. Assess the feasibility of operating out of rented office space, a nearby storefront, or even your home, and what equipment/resources will be needed (e.g., computers, data files, inventory). Store important documents and backup copies of computer records, software, and other vital information in a fireproof container or at a secure off-site location.
Ensure the safety of employees and customers. Develop an evacuation plan that includes access to shelters, hospitals, and other emergency services. Keep emergency telephone numbers clearly posted, and maintain up-to-date emergency contact and essential medical information for all employees.
Perform a safety inventory. Regularly clean and test smoke detectors, and change the batteries at least once a year. Make sure you have well-stocked first-aid kits, fully charged fire extinguishers, and a fresh supply of all types of batteries used in your business. If you have portable generators for emergency power, make sure the fuel is fresh and safely stored.
Review your business insurance coverage. Your coverage should be enough to get your business back in operation, and cover the replacement cost of essential facilities. Most general casualty policies do not cover flood damage, nor may they apply to special tools or equipment. Also consider purchasing business interruption insurance, which can assist with ongoing expenses during a forced shutdown.
Another great source for small business expertise is SCORE “For the Life of Your Business.” SCORE is a non-profit organization of more than 12,000 volunteers who provide free, confidential business mentoring and training workshops to small business owners.
To learn more about the local chapters of SCORE, visit www.thevillagesocala.score.org or www.lakesumter.score.org
