Tips for Surviving Hurricane Season 2006 -- Only Online USGlass June 2006

Only Online - USGlass June 2006

Tips for Surviving Hurricane Season 2006

The 2006 hurricane season is freshly upon us, and while forecasters say we aren't as likely to see the same destruction as last year, planning and preparing for the season is still a good idea for those living and working in hurricane-prone areas. The South Florida Regional Planning Council offers some tips and advice, specifically geared toward small businesses, for making it through the season.

Plan Ahead
Use this checklist in preparing your business emergency disaster and recovery plan:

Review property insurance with your insurance agent;
Establish written hurricane procedures for protecting business property and its contents and specify a timeline for when the procedures will be implemented;
Designate an individual and an alternate who will coordinate the implementation of the hurricane procedures;
Establish an employee alert roster that will be used to notify employees that your hurricane plan has been activated. The alert roster will also be used to check on the status of employees during and after the hurricane;
Establish plans for protecting computers and files (i.e. make multiple backup files and store data in alternate safe locations);
If necessary, develop a system for identification of employees (i.e. emergency vests with company name and logo, ID cards, vehicle permits or badges);
Establish an emergency communication line to be used by employees and their families to obtain status reports and information pertaining to available assistance; and
Determine what emergency equipment and supplies are necessary (see list below).

Stock up on Supplies
Here are some items to be sure and stock up on at the start of hurricane season.

Paper cups, plates and plastic utensils;
Disinfectant;
Plastic garbage bags and ties;
Soap and liquid detergent;
Battery-operated radio and extra batteries;
Flashlights and extra batteries;
Cash or traveler's checks;
Matches in waterproof container or lighter;
Sterno (several cans);
Candles;
Non-electric can opener and bottle opener;
Gas/charcoal/wood grill and fuel (for outdoor use only);
Utility knife;
Cellular phone, extra batteries, charger and automobile adapter;
Heavy plastic sheeting;
Duct tape;
Masking tape;
Sandbags;
Emergency generator;
Storm shutters;
Chain saw;
Large pieces of plywood;
Hand tools;
First-Aid kit.

Also Keep on Hand …
At least a three-day supply of bottled water consisting of one gallon per person per day. In addition, store at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food. If you select food that must be heated select foods that can easily be heated with a can of Sterno.