Depending on where your business is located in British Columbia, you face a number of potential threats. If the worst were to happen, is your business prepared to survive? That’s why we’ve put together these 10 tips for disaster proofing your business.
While none of us like to ponder the worst-case scenario, developing a disaster preparedness plan isn’t just in your interest; it’s vital in assisting rebuilding efforts province-wide. Small businesses are vital to life in British Columbia. In fact, they make up 98% of all business in the province. In many communities, the local grocery store, post office or walk-in clinic represents an integral resource that will be leaned on in an extreme event.
As a small business owner, you’ve likely invested time, effort and finances into getting your enterprise off the ground. Minimize the disruption to your business both during and after a major disaster by adopting the following 10 tips for disaster proofing your business.
Accessing Cash
In the aftermath of an extreme event, it might be hard to access your bank account. Consider keeping a few day’s worth of cash in a secure location on your business premises.
Prepare for Power Outages
How would your business cope if power wasn’t available for an extended period? Investing in a small generator enables you to keep your cell phone charged, run your point of sale system and stay afloat.
Reduce Your Risk of Data Loss
Our increasing reliance on cloud storage places us at risk of data interruption in the event of a disaster. Consider storing data physically and remotely to maximize the chances of accessibility.
Create a Recovery Plan
Take an objective look at your business and identify the vital aspects you need to continue in the event of a disaster. Identify the roles your staff will play, and where the business would temporarily move to if your location is damaged or unusable. The Province of BC has created this handy template for your recovery plan.
Emergency Contacts
Keeping the lines of communication open during an extreme event is vital for the welfare of you and your staff members. Ensure up to date contact lists are distributed to each employee. Try to include alternate numbers for each person if possible. Include vendors, suppliers and local utility providers.
Create a Kit
Whether you assemble it yourself, or purchase a pre-assembled kit from a retailer, a survival kit should be considered a must. The Red Cross advises the inclusion of the following items:
- Water (Four litres per person, per day)
- Non-perishable food (three-day supply)
- Flashlight
- Battery or crank operated radio
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Any medications you (or your staff) take
- Multi-purpose tool
- Emergency blanket
- Map of the area
Prepare Your Evacuation Plan
Ensure all staff are aware of your evacuation plan. Consider how you will get staff members from your place of business to a safe location. Do you have any employees with disabilities or medical conditions? Their needs must be considered.
Learn Emergency Skills
Even if you aren’t planning for an emergency, taking a CPR course is always a good idea. On this same point, learn how to safely turn off the utilities at your place of business. Leaking gas can make rescue attempts extremely dangerous.
Purchase Safety Equipment
Equipment like fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, first-aid kits and a defibrillator isn’t just handy in a disaster, it’s common-sense to keep them close at hand during day-to-day business activities.
Practice
Each October, millions of people around the world practice how to drop, cover and hold on during the Great ShakeOut. Exercises like this are invaluable for training your staff how to handle emergency situations. Analyse the biggest threats you may face, and drill your team on how to proceed.
Small Business BC is Here to Help
SBBC is a non-profit resource centre for BC-based small businesses. Whatever your idea of success is, we’re here to provide holistic support and resources at every step of the journey. Check out our range of business webinars, on-demand E-Learning Education, our Talk to an Expert Advisories, or browse our business articles.
