What's Your Emergency Response Plan?

During these distressing economic times, many of us have found ourselves going back to the basics. Some have done this as a precaution while it has been downright necessary for others. We find ourselves asking, is this a necessary expense? And, what changes can I make today, to make my business stronger tomorrow? The result is that we cut back and are left with the core basics that really matter.

Emergency planning warrants your time and concern. It is easy to think it will never happen but the truth is that 7,000 losses are reported each day due to fire, water, and storm damage.  And only 35% of small and medium size businesses have a comprehensive disaster recovery plan in place. Are you among the 35%?

 The facts are sobering. While we cannot prevent disasters, we can plan ahead for them. Review your plan today. If you don’t have one, then start working on it. As a result of 9/11 and Katrina there are many free resources available for disaster planning. Check out www.Ready.gov  or www.Ready.GA.gov for great planning guidelines both in the office and at home.  Disaster planning may even be available free of charge through local companies and the fire department.

If we all take the time to prepare and plan ahead, we will strengthen not just our business but our community as well. By planning ahead for disasters, we position our businesses to survive whatever may come.  In turn, this helps ensure that our community will grow and thrive. As we continue to refine the core basics that define our business, let’s make sure we add disaster planning to the mix.  Take the opportunity to prepare and plan ahead. After all, how long can you afford for your business to be shut down?

Unfortunately, one thing that many have over looked is planning ahead for the unknown. The problems we face on a daily basis are enough to consume our time and energy for the entire week.  While there are legitimate issues that cannot wait until tomorrow, there are equally pressing issues that can wait but should not. One such issue is planning for emergencies. Most business owners have a disaster contingency plan outlined but when was the last time you reviewed it? Ask yourself, what would happen if there was a fire in the office building? Who would I call if the offices were flooded? How long can I afford to be shut down? What if you were away when this happened? Would your staff know what to do? The morning after disaster strikes is not the time to answer these questions.

Be Prepared, Plan Ahead! Enroll your office building in
Champion’s Emergency Response Program today.
It is free and easy.

www.championcsi.com 

Icela Reets - Emergency Response Program Coordinator