The most effective way to weather winter woes is to be prepared in advance. The West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WVSBDC) reminds business owners that preparation before a potential disaster is an effective first step toward recovery afterward.
Lack of a disaster plan puts the business and the livelihood of its employees at risk. An estimated 25 percent of businesses do not reopen following a major disaster, according to the Institute for Business and Home Safety.
“Be proactive,” says Sam Payne, WVSBDC Business Coach/Disaster Preparedness Specialist. “Develop a plan of action now so your business and your staff will be ready in case of a severe winter storm interruption. The West Virginia Small Business Development Center has a statewide network of business coaches that help companies prepare strategically for growth and success. That includes planning for the unexpected. Disaster preparation is a critical element in that strategy.”
The West Virginia Small Business Development Center recommends that businesses take basic steps such as:
- Review your insurance. Check your policy to verify what your insurance covers – and for how much — in case of damaging winter hazards.
- Determine the greatest potential risks. Is your business property likely to be affected by loss of access due to icy conditions, water damage from burst pipes or other hazards? What would be the cost to your business if it had to be closed for several days – or weeks? What upgrades or maintenance could prevent or reduce potential damage?
- Identify who is responsible for what. Is the business owner or the landlord responsible for snow and ice removal? Who is in charge of ensuring equipment is properly insulated, lubricated and in good working condition for cold weather operation?
- Establish procedures. Outline instructions for restoring electrical services on an item-by-item basis. Develop a system for relocating salvageable and undamaged supplies. Set up protocols for emergency communications so employees, customers and vendors know what is going on. Make sure employees know their roles in putting the plan into action.
- Make backup copies of important business data and information. Regularly backup the data on all computers. Critical data includes word processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial files, human resources files and accounts receivable/payable files. Backup data automatically if possible, or at least weekly and store the copies either off-site or in the cloud.
- Keep essential contacts handy. Compile a list of the names and phone numbers of employees, insurance agents, vendors and emergency services. Keep the list in a place and a form that you’ll be able to access it at need.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides disaster planning checklists and similar resources on the website http://www.preparemybusiness.org/.
The SBA offers disaster assistance through capital, counseling and contracting services. The SBA Disaster Loan Program helps fund the recovery of private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes.
For more information on disaster readiness, contact Sam Payne at 304-553-2805. For WVSBDC services and locations, visit WVSBDC.org or call the Business Ask Me! Line at 888-982-7232.
The WVSBDC is part of the West Virginia Development Office and creates economic impact through offering entrepreneurs and small businesses cost-effective business coaching and technical assistance. The West Virginia SBDC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. The WVSBDC is an Accredited Member of America’s SBDC network.
