Emergencies — such as extreme weather, fires or accidents — can happen at any time. Such disasters can not only endanger your staff but can also lead to costly business disruption and property damage. To ensure safety and business continuity, it’s important to be prepared. Take these steps to make sure you’re ready for the next emergency.
Develop a plan
Develop an emergency response plan. Start with a risk assessment of potential hazards. Evaluate the resources you’ll need to respond to emergencies. Identify emergency procedures to protect your business. Share your plan with staff and local first responders.
Gather emergency supplies
Prepare an emergency kit. Include non-perishable foods, bottled water, flashlights, a battery-powered radio and extra batteries. Designate safe areas for staff during a storm. Check and update emergency supplies regularly.
Identify the essentials
Identify all equipment, data and documentation essential to operating your business. Develop procedures for repairing or replacing critical equipment and backing up vital data. Store extra supplies and equipment for use in an emergency.
Secure your site
Install fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in appropriate places. Make sure emergency exit routes are clearly marked. Install automatic sprinklers, alarm systems and other security systems as needed.
Assess your alternatives
Create an alternate plan in case an emergency renders your building inaccessible. Determine whether your business can be run from a different location. Plan for appropriate staff members to work remotely as needed.
Get outage alerts
Power outages can happen in an emergency. Sign up now and, if an emergency occurs, you'll be informed about an outage status and estimated time of restoration. We will send you updates in the method you prefer — text, phone call, email or push notification.
If you use backup power, such as a generator, follow all testing, maintenance and safety recommendations.
With these measures, you’ll be better prepared to keep your staff safe and get your business back in operation quickly. For more information and resources about emergency preparedness, see Ready Business from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.