As Hurricane Florence approaches the U.S. coast, it reminds us that natural disasters can strike quickly and often leave behind an overwhelming wake. Often times once the disaster has passed, we forget about it and continue with our daily lives until the next one occurs. But as evidenced by the tragedy in Puerto Rico, sometimes we never know just how devasting the damage will be and what the long term effects upon our lives and businesses might be.
First and foremost, seek shelter if you’re in the path of natural disaster. Here are a few organizations to rely on:
- List of NC Shelters
- List of SC Shelters
- List of VA Shelters
- Hurricane Evacuation Guide created by the VA government
After the storm…get supplies if you’re in need or donate to those who are:
The proactive approach to natural disasters…
Your business should have a continuity and recovery plan in place for natural disasters.
A Disaster Recovery Plan, outlining specific policies, procedures, technologies and tools, enables you to recover or continue maintaining essential elements despite disruptive events.
Three main issues should be addressed during the planning process:
- making sure all personnel are accounted for and safe, with plans in place for potential medical treatment, shelter, or relocation.
- determining which critical activities are needed to continue business, or if a company can shut down for a few days; and
- setting up a damage assessment team that determines whether access to company facilities is possible and work can be done;
Once a plan has been finalized, it is important that employees are made aware and practice the company's recovery plan. Performing drills will assist in identifying any gaps in the planning and give employees working knowledge of what to do when disaster strikes.
Impact Workforce Solutions can help you customize a plan for the next time disaster strikes.
For more resources, check out these complimentary guides offered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
