The most recent tornados are a good reminder that disaster can strike any time, anywhere. Here are a few tips we’ve gathered to help you prepare for the next big disaster in your area as well as save time, money, and frustration in the aftermath.
Video Your Business
Get all of your property on tape. Property includes the outside, vehicles, equipment, inventory, supplies, offices, signs, etc. Talk about what you are filming so a FEMA, SBA, or insurance agent will know what existed before the disaster. Include who is making the video and the date. Store it in a safe or a bank.
Read your insurance policy
Read your insurance policy thoroughly. Know every detail. Is it current? Any upgrades or improvements that must be completed? Are you covered for wind, fire, and flood? If you said “no” to any of these details, fix them as soon as possible.
Communicate With Your Employees
If you have any employees, get their regular and emergency contact information. This will help get business up and running again soon after the disaster. Make sure to give your employees your contact information as well. Also remember to give each employee an assignment like securing hard drives and covering windows in case a disaster is in the immediate future.
Contact Local Emergency Office and Alarm Company
Get the necessary information for businesses in the aftermath of a natural disaster. Once you have this information, formulate a plan to prepare for a future disaster and its aftermath. It’s also important to contact your alarm company so they can stay in touch with you while you are away from your business.
Maintain A Generator
You will need a generator that can generate gas for 3 days. If you are stranded at your business, you will need something to keep you warm. Also remember to run gas in a well-ventilated place to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Be Careful Who You Hire to Remove Debris
Some contractors like to scam off of those in need in the wake of a disaster. They want to make quick cash off of desperate people. Do thorough research before hiring somebody to clean debris. Don’t make yourself the victim twice.
You never know what kind of disaster will strike in your area next. It’s important to make plans for any type of disaster to save stress, time, and money later.