The 2022 hurricane season has been relatively calm so far, but we have a way to go. The season peaks in mid-September and runs through the end of November. A lot can happen in that time, and not all are hurricane-related.
This year's heat waves, wildfires, violent storms, and extreme flooding prove that severe weather and natural disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, and with little warning.
National Preparedness Month is a great time to get ready for whatever may come your way. The Federal Trade Commission's website, Dealing with Weather Emergencies (or in Spanish at Emergencias Climáticas), has practical information to help you prepare for, deal with, and recover from a weather emergency.
Think about what it will take to board up windows and safeguard all your small business items. Be sure to have cash on hand to purchase supplies and potentially pay some of your employees just in case the electronic paying system goes down. Also, take a moment to look in your buildings surrounding area and make sure any hazards are either removed or relocated to minimize potential threats.
Have the tools, materials, and a plan to protect your business from damage.
- Invest in shutters or plywood to protect windows from projectiles and debris
- Regularly trim trees and hedges to remove anything that could cause structural damage
- Have your building inspected to make sure it can withstand a storm
- Be prepared to move valuable equipment to higher ground in case of flooding
There are some essential items you should keep at your business in the event that anyone gets stranded or your business becomes a shelter for those who had to evacuate. Gather these items and make sure the location of the items is known.
- Bottled water
- Battery-operated AM/FM radio
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- First Aid kit
- Non-Perishable food
- Cleaning supplies
- Tool kit
In addition to setting up this kit, develop a list of essential personal items for when and if you seek shelter in your place of business. These may include:
- Cash
- Coolers/Ice
- Gas
- Blankets
- Pillows
- Air mattresses
While we all hope for the best during hurricane season, it is important that you are as prepared for the worst as possible. Protecting your people and business assets is a must to stand any chance of a speedy recovery after a storm.
Since 2005, Quikstone Capital Solutions has helped thousands of businesses prepare for and respond to emergencies. If you need working capital for any business need, Quikstone can help. The process is fast and easy. There's a simple, one-page application, and no collateral is needed. If you accept credit cards, you could qualify for up to $250,000. You don't have to wait till disaster strikes, we offer a no-cost pre-qualification, so the funds will be there when you need them.
