Business owners face unique challenges during hurricane season. Without the proper precautions, your operations could be disrupted for days or even weeks. Here's how to safeguard your business:
1. Review Your Insurance Coverage Ensure your business insurance policy includes hurricane coverage, particularly for wind damage and flooding. Consider adding business interruption insurance if you don’t have it.
2. Back-Up Your Data Data loss can be catastrophic for any business. Make sure to:
- Regularly back up all critical data to the cloud
- Store backups offsite to ensure access in case your physical location is compromised
3. Create a Communication Plan Make sure your employees know what to do in the event of a hurricane
- Establish a phone tree or communication system to stay in touch
- Provide clear evacuation and shelter instructions for on-site staff
- Keep clients informed about potential disruptions via your website or social media
4. Secure Your Premises Protect your building and inventory by:
- Moving valuable equipment away from windows
- Installing flood barriers if you are in a high-risk flood zone
- Unplugging electronic devices to avoid electrical surges
- Having back up power for perishables
By planning ahead, you can minimize the impact of hurricanes on your business and recover more quickly afterward.
