When you’re running a business, you can control almost all aspects of that business. However, damages and losses caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes are inevitable in certain parts of the country. In recent years, hurricanes have led to the destruction of properties worth millions of dollars.
The best weapon against a hurricane is proper preparation. Below are five tips to help businesses prepare for the hurricane season.
1. Prepare, plan and practice
Having a plan ahead of time is the only way a business can survive the effects of a hurricane and ensure business continuity. Although current technology inventions allow early warning of an approaching hurricane, it is hard for businesses to keep operating after the hurricane if they didn’t have a contingency plan in place.
Having an overall strategy that protects all aspects of your business is essential.
Business leaders should ensure that they identify critical mission applications, facilitate off-site storage of data, select important data backup plans, place and relocate end-users, and identify key employees who can remotely keep the business afloat during the hurricane.
These are essential business elements that need to be planned months before the hurricane season. Appoint a planning team of employees within your organization and come up with an emergency plan. Use mock disasters, training drills, and recovery testing to get your team ready for the hurricane.
2. Plan for remote business operations
When a hurricane hits, you might not be able to access your business facility. The roads may be unsafe to use or closed by the authorities. Most employees would not be willing to risk their lives in an emergency to go to work.
You’ll also want to ensure that you have a contingency plan for such a scenario.
The best way to do this is by ensuring that essential business operations are up and running remotely. Arm your employee with the right equipment to keep the business running.
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3. Backup your data
In today’s world of technological advancements, data and information is the key to running a successful business. Businesses are centered on computers, software, and data. Consult the IT department to ensure that data backups are done on time.
Make use of cloud computing to store your data safely.
During a hurricane, internet connection and electricity cables may be affected by the storm. Early data backup will ensure that you don’t lose any key business information.
4. Protect your business site
Protecting your equipment and business facilities is instrumental in business restoration after the storm. One of the best ways to do this is by ensuring your business and your property.
According to FEMA, many small businesses don’t recover after being hit by a natural disaster. Protect your business by purchasing the right natural disaster insurance policy to cover you in case of property damages and losses.
You can also invest in generators and batteries to provide electricity, pumps, and a backup water source. These are essential for the survival of the people in the building when the hurricane hits.
5. Expect anything
Hurricanes can bring unexpected, devastating effects. Always train your employees to expect the unexpected, remain adaptable, and flexible. The hurricane might completely alter your plans. Be mentally prepared to act in case this happens.
The best shield against the unexpected is to be prepared, plan early and be ready to act.
How to Handle the Insurance Company After a Hurricane
Having an insurance policy that covers your business against natural disasters is essential. After a hurricane, many business owners start the process of filing their insurance claims to cover damages. However, in the wake of hurricane season, it’s important to know what to say to your insurance company in case your property gets damaged.
Ensure you take pictures of the property damage and do not throw anything away without taking pictures and letting the insurance company investigate the extent of the damage.
In the case that your insurance company is not cooperating, you can contact an experienced lawyer to help you with your insurance claim.