Focus Groups of Local Businesses Speak on Preparedness
Links to Disaster Preparedness Advice
Expecting the Unexpected In Your Business:
A Matter of National Security—And Good Business Sense
Did you know that in a severe pandemic influenza outbreak, experts predict that more than 40 percent of your workforce may be unable to come? What happens if a disaster strikes? Is your business prepared? What about a terrorist attack, tornado, fire or flood? Even computer viruses can play havoc with your ability to do business. You may have insurance, but it takes more than that to get your organization back on its feet after a catastrophic event.
Your answers to these questions have repercussions beyond the success of your business, affecting the local economy and, potentially, even national security. America's businesses form the backbone of our economy. Small businesses alone account for more than 99 percent of all companies, employ 50 percent of all private sector workers and provide nearly 45 percent of the nation's payroll. Our nation depends on the ability of our businesses to provide timely products, services and jobs to our communities.
When you consider that the number of declared major disasters nearly doubled in the 1990's compared to the previous decade, preparedness becomes an even more critical issue. Though each situation is unique, any organization can be better prepared if it plans carefully, puts emergency procedures in place and practices for problems of all kinds. If businesses are ready to survive and recover any type of disaster, the nation and our economy are more secure.
A commitment to planning today will help support employees, customers, the community and even the country in event of catastrophe. Preparation also protects your business investment, giving your company a better chance for survival.
The following websites offer helpful tips to get you started on developing your business emergency preparedness plan:
American Red Cross (Prince William County Chapter)
Disaster Preparedness Information
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Information particular to preparing for a possible pandemic influenza outbreak
Virginia Department of Emergency Management
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Preparing makes good business sense. Get ready now.
Excerpts from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s preparedness site, www.ready.gov.
