Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/142672
disaster-proof your business Emergency Planning Programs, Lynn University, Boca Raton, Florida. Some of these agencies include: • Local offices of emergency management. • The Small Business Administration. • Local police and fire services. • The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA). • Your insurance carriers and/or professional association. In addition to a variety of educational and training guides, Vendrell says, "FEMA also offers a number of disaster planning courses that are typically offered free of charge." "It's important, too, to maintain ongoing contact," Fairbrother says. "During a major disaster, there is always much confusion and you don't want your practice to be the one that falls between the cracks." Keep Your Clients Updated If you have protected the information on your clients as recommended above, you can send emails with updates, or you can put the information on your website. "Remember, too, that your suppliers have businesses of their own to run; they and your clients will appreciate knowing how and when you expect to be back in business," Fairbrother says. "In most cases, they will work with you in your time of need. However, don't lose sight of the fact that they have needs of their own and must continue to take care of those needs. Maintaining contact with your clients will increase the likelihood that they will stick with you, instead of straying off to a competitor." Invest in Your Safety Unless you are located in one of the hurricane- or flood-prone areas, preparation for a natural disaster may seem like an unnecessary demand on your time. But every year, thousands of unsuspecting business owners across the country find themselves the victims of a natural disaster of one form or another. That's why investing a little of your time in preparing a disaster preparation plan now will be a wise business investment. It is absolutely critical for you to have a disaster recovery plan for your practice. Disasters come in all sizes and shapes, not just hurricanes like Katrina, Irene, and Sandy. Earthquakes, fires, flood, ice storms, and tornadoes can all take their toll. All of the experts interviewed for this story agree with that opinion. The last thing you need if disaster should strike is to be caught unprepared. SPH William J. Lynott has an extensive background in management consulting, marketing, and finance. He's written more than 900 articles appearing in a wide range of consumer magazines, trade publications, and newspapers in 17 countries.