DISASTER RECOVERY PLAN

HERE'S STEPS TO TAKE TO PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS FROM ANY DISASTER:

Set up an emergency response plan and train employees how to carry it out.

Compile a list of important phone numbers and addresses.

Decide on a communication strategy to prevent loss of customers. Post notices outside your premises: contact clients by phone, e-mail or mail; place a notice in local newspapers.

Consider the things you may need initially during the emergency. Do you need a back-up source of power? Do you have a back-up communication system?

Consider the possible impact a disaster will have on your employees' ability to return to work and how customers can return to receive goods or services.

Even if your business escapes disaster, there is still a risk the business could suffer sufficient losses due to the inability of suppliers to deliver goods or services or a reduction in customers. Discuss disaster preparedness and recovery plans with suppliers and markets.

Back up computerized data files regularly and store them off-premises. Keep copies of important records and documents in a safe deposit box and make sure they are up to date.

Identify critical business activities and the resources needed to support them. If you cannot afford to shut down your operations, even temporarily, determine what you require to run the business at another location.

Find alternative facilities, equipment and supplies, and locate qualified contractors. Consider a reciprocity agreement with another business. Try to get an advance commitment from at least one contractor to respond to your needs.

Protect computer systems and data. Data storage firms offer offsite backups to computer data that can be updated regularly via high-speed modems or through the internet.
source: Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Hurricane Insurance Information Center.