TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – With the peak of the 2019 Hurricane Season beginning in August, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis reminds Florida’s small business owners of the importance of preparing now to protect their businesses and recover quickly in the event of a disaster.

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “The peak of hurricane season is almost here, and now is the time to ensure homes and businesses are protected from a potential storm. I know the challenges small businesses face when preparing and recovering from a disaster and studies show that approximately 40 percent of small businesses won’t reopen after a natural disaster. I know, just like protecting your home, protecting your livelihood is one of your top priorities. Good planning now may speed up disaster recovery and help ensure your business is back up and running after disaster strikes.”

1. Build a business disaster preparedness plan. Because hurricane preparedness does not end at home, business owners should have a business disaster plan and practice emergency response plan procedures with their employees frequently.
2. Ensure your business is adequately covered. Make sure you have sufficient insurance coverage to offset disaster costs and business disruption losses. Business owners should know your coverage options and consider business income coverage for lost revenue and normal operating expenses. Always be sure you understand your policy deductibles and limits.
3. Maintain emergency contact information. In the event of a disaster, it is vital that you have access to contact information for individuals that are crucial to business operations, such as employees, banks, lawyers, accountants, and suppliers. Also, make sure your employees know their duties during a disaster and what measures to take to remain safe as your business works to reopen.
4. Protect important documents and information. An important part of disaster preparation is ensuring your businesses’ important documents and data are protected. Consider using a secure, offsite data backups systems that can be accessed online from any location. Keep original copies of important records, including insurance and financial documents, in a safe place that is easy to access in the event of a disaster.