The aftermath of hurricanes to small business is not new to retailers. That’s why you need to prepare for natural disasters, even if it means going for a merchant loan to sort out data backup costs, purchase reliable communication equipment and sort out other expenses. Here’s what you need to do reduce the impact of a hurricane on your business.
- Prepare a plan and test it
Proper planning is the basis of business continuity and the most effective strategy to minimizing the impact of hurricanes. Even thoughup-to-date techenables advanced warning of imminent storms, there’s little you can do to go on with your business operations without a contingency plan.
It goes beyond familiarizing with all hurricane routes that can speedily get you out of town. You need anoverall strategy that covers all sectors of your business.Find out how to;
- Conductthe critical missions,
- Select important backup data,
- Ensure offsite data storage,
- Relocate end users,
- And Identify key personnel.
You can’t accomplish all the above when under the pressure of an approaching hurricane minus prior preparation. Ensure you train a team and test your plan to see how effective it is.
2.Backup Your Data
Your business is as good as dead without access to your useful data. Make sure your I/S team conducts the backups in advance. Have the backups stored in a safe, protected and dependable facility. If you get caught in the last minute scuttle, consider using the electronic vaulting technology that allows you transfer data to an alternate info recovery site in a few minutes. Note that Air and freight transportation services may be discontinued when a hurricane is around the corner. That’s why you need to back up your data and have the shipped early enough.
- Safeguard Your Site
Safeguarding your site equipment and facilities is key in restoring your operations in case a hurricane strikes. You can do this by putting in place;
- Backup Power sources (batteries and generators)
- Alternative water sources
- Backup supply of gasoline pumps to prevent flooding
Also, make sure to plan ahead during construction. Your facility should be far away from fault zones and flood plains. This helps reduce floodingpossibilities.
- Have a dependable communications strategy
Communication is essential to all businesses. In the case of an approaching hurricane, itbecomes the backbone of operations. Remember, you will need to coordinate all the emergency activities including;
- Executing the contingency plan
- Warningstaff of imminent danger
- Maintaining contact with suppliers and clients
- Keeping up to date with the media
Also, keep in mind your facility’s day-to-day routine and consider the various types of communications, more so voice and data. Be mindful of what could happen to your business if communications are tampered with and establish action plans to reduce the impact.Some handy backup means of communicationinclude Radio, Television, walkie-talkies, high-frequency radio, cellular phones, point-to-point private lines,and satellite communications.
