■ Business Continuity and Risk Management
Continued From Page 22 electronics need to be kept running . Important files should have a written backup somewhere in a safe and secure location like a safe or metal filing cabinet . Have a disaster supply kit handy that includes a battery-powered radio to access National Weather Service information , a battery-powered electronic device charger , a first aid kit , a fire extinguisher , flashlights , extra batteries , waterproof plastic bags and more .
Get property inspected .
It ’ s important to have your building inspected for damage to ensure safety for all employees upon return . Restore electric , gas , telephone service and water , and avoid any additional damage by making repairs to stabilize your office or facility , if necessary . In the wake of the storm , for cleanup , ensure that you are using safe , proper cleaning products / services , that all appropriate safety equipment is used , and rent equipment or hire contractors if the job is too large or complicated for a small team .
Ensure print / digital resources are accessible .
Find up-to-date , reliable information from community public health officials , emergency management and / or other sources , and make them accessible for staff / public viewing . Make sure your organization has access to inventory lists including computer hardware and software .
An emergency generator can protect your company when damaging power outages , sometimes lasting several days , occur during natural disasters .
Natural disasters cannot be averted , but as a business owner , you can take the steps to minimize disruption and reduce loss so that once the storm clears you are able to return to normal operations as soon as possible . An effective disaster preparedness plan will ensure that both you and your employees are safe in any unforeseen circumstance .
Don Newman serves as manager of small business advocacy for the NJBAC , New Jersey ’ s “ one-stop ” shop for businesses , helping companies to stay and grow in the Garden State .
Photo : Getty Images / iStockphoto / Baloncici