Your Hurricane Preparedness Business Checklist

Hurricane preparedness is paramount for business owners on the Alabama Gulf Coast, particularly when considering the potential impact on IT infrastructure and support. Here’s a detailed checklist to effectively prepare your business and support team for a hurricane:

#1: Risk Assessment and Contingency Planning

• Identify potential risks and vulnerabilities of your IT infrastructure to hurricane-related damage.
• Develop a comprehensive contingency plan for IT systems, including data backup and recovery strategies.

#2: Hurricane Preparedness Team

• Appoint a team leader responsible for overseeing hurricane preparedness efforts.
• Assemble a cross-functional team with representatives from IT, management and other relevant departments.

#3: Communication Plan

• Establish a communication chain for emergency situations and designate backup contacts.
• Ensure all team members have updated contact information for each other.

#4: Data Backup and Offsite Storage

• Regularly back up critical data and ensure the backups are stored offsite, preferably in a different geographical location.

#5: Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

• Install UPS units for critical IT equipment to provide temporary power during power outages and prevent data loss or hardware damage.

#6: Protect Equipment and Cables

• Raise critical IT equipment off the ground to safeguard against flooding.
• Secure cables and wires to prevent tripping hazards and water damage.

#7: Backup Power Generator

• Consider investing in a backup power generator to sustain essential operations during prolonged power outages.

#8: Shut Down and Secure Systems

• Develop a procedure for safely shutting down IT systems before a hurricane makes landfall.
• Secure servers and sensitive equipment to prevent damage from strong winds.

#9: Remote Access and VPN

• Set up secure remote access and VPN capabilities to enable employees to work from home or alternative locations if the office is inaccessible.

#10: Communication Channels

• Establish alternative means of communication, such as email, messaging apps or VoIP services, to keep in touch with your team during and after the hurricane.

#11: Testing and Drills

• Regularly test the backup systems, data restoration procedures and disaster recovery plans.
• Conduct hurricane preparedness drills with your IT support team to ensure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.

#12: Review Insurance Coverage

• Review your insurance policy to ensure it adequately covers potential IT infrastructure and data losses due to hurricanes.

#13: Supplier and Vendor Communication

• Reach out to your IT equipment and service providers to understand their hurricane preparedness plans and how they can support you during a crisis.

#14: Stay Informed

• Monitor local weather updates and official announcements from emergency management agencies to stay informed about the hurricane’s trajectory and potential impact.

#15: Employee Safety First

• Emphasize the importance of employee safety above all else. Ensure that your team members are aware of evacuation procedures and follow them if necessary.

Remember to regularly review and update your plan to adapt to changing circumstances and technologies. By being proactive and well-prepared, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges posed by severe weather and ensure the safety and continuity of your business operations.