SBA Offers Tips to Help Businesses and
Homeowners Prepare for Hurricane Season
The six-month Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 to November 30) can present
sudden dangers for businesses and household in many parts of the United states.
The U.S. Small Business Administration urges
homeowners and businesses to plan and prepare for the worst-case scenario by
taking steps in advance to minimize damage caused by these major storms.
The survival of a community can depend on the ability of businesses and
homeowners to minimize the risks--wind damage and flooding--that accompany
hurricanes.
Here are some hurricane preparedness tips for homes and businesses:
Have a disaster plan in place. Find escape routes from the home or
business and establish places to meet. Have on hand emergency phone numbers;
business owners should designate a contact person who will communicate with
other employees, customers and suppliers. Families should ask an out-of-state
relative or friend to serve as the "family contact."
Insurance. According to the National Flood Insurance Program, only
25 to 50 percent of U.S. homeowners in flood-prone areas have flood insurance.
Business owners an individuals should review their insurance policies before
the storm hits. Business interruption insurance--which replaces income lost
during down time caused by a covered peril--should be considered.
Disaster survival kit. It should include a flashlight and extra
batteries, portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, a first-aid
kit, non-perishable packaged and canned food, water (a weeks' worth), an
manual can opener, sturdy shoes, a basic tool kit, waterproof plastic bags,
and cash.
Important business records should be stored at an off-site location
at least 50 miles away. Computer data should be backed up, saved on diskettes
or CD Roms and stored off-site.
Windows. Install storm shutters over all exposed windows and other
glass surfaces in the home or business. Plywood shutters--1/2-inch marine
plywood is best--can also offer protection from flying debris.
The SBA makes low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters and non-farm
businesses of all sizes.
To learn more about US government disaster assistance programs as well as
steps you can take in advance to protect your business and family, visit
DisasterAssistance.gov .
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