Plan for Specific Disasters

It’s critical for you to protect your business by identifying potential risks from natural and manmade disasters. Be pessimistic – this is definitely a case of planning for the worst and hoping for the best.

Here are some suggestions, if you are at risk for the following disasters:

Wildfires
Maintain a 30-foot “combustible-free” zone around your facility. Remove any trees and combustible material, such as brush. Keep grass mowed and irrigated
Consider the use of flame-resistant building materials when building or renovating
Keep the roof and gutters clear of debris
Attach nonflammable, fine-gauge screening over all chimneys
Tornado
Assign one person to be responsible for monitoring weather alerts
Establish interior, preferably basement, locations for employees to gather. Bathrooms, corners and short hallways are safest
Remember, a “watch” means a tornado could happen and a “warning” means you should take immediate cover
Keep surplus blankets in a shelter area
Hurricane
Have a method of notifying employees concerning work status before and after the storm hits
Protect windows with storm shutters or install plywood over them. Put masking tape over windows to reduce the risk of flying glass
Consider evacuating vehicles in advance of the storm
Put them in a garage or keep them outside, away from trees or other potential falling objects
Bring outside signage, furniture, and decorations inside
Remove damaged or diseased limbs from nearby trees
Unplug all equipment and turn off the gas, electricity and water
Flooding
Most standard insurance policies do not cover flood damage and the resulting loss of income. Check with your insurance agent on how to ensure adequate protection
Reduce damage and ease clean up by building with flood-resistant materials
Check with local authorities to find out the 100-year flood level of your structure
Consider working with a licensed contractor to raise electrical and HVAC system above the 100-year flood level mark
Keep computers, electronics, and important files raised off the floor
Consider working with a licensed plumber to install a backflow valve to prevent sewage backup
Be prepared to move critical items above flood level during a flood watch.
 Earthquake 
Refer to your local building officials to ensure that your facility is up to code
Use natural gas lines with flexible connections and automatic shut-off valves
Use flexible water lines and/or couplings to toilets, sinks and in sprinkler systems
Secure equipment, including computers, to the floor or walls to prevent tipping
Make sure anything with a drawer or door, such as filing cabinets, has latches with a manual release
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