By Liz Kudwa
A: This is an excellent question! Most business owners probably feel this will “never happen to them”, but it is so important to be prepared. You’ve spent a lot of time building your business and as you’ve discovered you should give some thought to how you will protect that for which you’ve worked so hard.
The Capital Area District Library does have a few titles that can offer some insight into how to protect your business during a disaster.
o Why Some Companies Emerge Stronger And Better From A Crisis: 7 Essential Lessons For Surviving Disaster by Ian I. Mitroff
o Business At Risk: How To Assess, Mitigate, And Respond To Terrorist Threats by Kevin M. Quinley
o Disaster Recovery Planning: Preparing For The Unthinkable by Jon William Toigo
Additionally, Inc.com had a great article on their site about how to “disaster proof” your business.
1. Assess risk
Protecting your business starts with knowing potential risks inherent to your industry or location, from flood plains to cyber attacks. By evaluating a variety of worst-case scenarios, you can more effectively guard against those most likely to strike.
2. Store emergency supplies
Unlike your home, it’s easy to forget about storing a few basic emergency supplies at the office. At a minimum, this should include a first-aid kit, a portable radio, flashlights, blankets, and some extra food and water.
3. Back up your data
A hard lesson shared by many Gulf Coast business owners is to store your back-up data and records off-site — whether they’re written or electronic — preferably somewhere readily accessible that’s also far, far away from your business location.
4. Get fully covered
Disaster insurance is no place to look for business savings. Standard policies typically cover fire, hail, and other damages. But in some regions you’ll need additional coverage for earthquakes and wind, while floods are covered separately under a national plan.
5. Post escape routes
Every office building is required to have primary and alternative exits, but without posted maps in accessible areas, employees might not find them. A building evacuation drill can also help. Ahead of an emergency, it’s important to designate a nearby assembly area away from the immediate danger.
6. Create a business continuity plan
Use your worst-case disaster scenario to identify everything your business needs to keep operating — from order and client info, to alternative operating locations and minimum staff requirements. It is also crucial to keep an updated database of off-site employee contact info. You may also consider reaching out to employees via e-mail and your company’s website, following a disaster.
7. Protect your infrastructure
Many smaller businesses require only computers, telephones, and the Internet to stay active. To ensure these don’t fail, install surge protectors on all key circuits and uninterruptible power suppliers, along with antivirus software, firewalls, and other network protection apps.
Elizabeth Kudwa is the Head Librarian at the Leslie Library,
201 Pennsylvania Street, Leslie, MI. Contact her at 517-589-9400 or by e-mail at
kudwae@cadl.org.
