Pelican State News

Tropical Storm Francine is anticipated to escalate into a hurricane as it approaches the Louisiana coast by Wednesday evening. Businesses are urged to take precautionary measures to safeguard against potential disasters.

One key step is to reexamine and update existing disaster plans. Businesses without such plans are encouraged to create them promptly.

It is essential to understand the risks faced by businesses, including potential threats like flooding, tornadoes, hailstorms, and earthquakes. Business owners should ensure they have sufficient insurance coverage to rebuild homes and businesses after a disaster. Policies should be reviewed to determine coverage and consider the addition of business interruption and flood insurance.

Photographing and videotaping assets is advised, with the media stored online or in secure, waterproof and fireproof locations. These items can be stored at a relative’s or friend’s place in another state.

An emergency response plan, including evacuation routes and meeting places, should be in place, along with a list of emergency contact numbers. Communication plans need to be developed, identifying a contact person for employees, customers, and vendors. In the event of local communication failures, it's wise to appoint someone out-of-state as a post-disaster contact point.

Backing up business records, both electronically and physically, is recommended, with stored copies kept in a secure location and electronic data saved to the cloud.

Businesses are advised to assemble disaster kits containing essentials such as flashlights, radios, batteries, first-aid supplies, non-perishable foods, bottled water, basic tools, plastic sheeting, and garbage bags. Employees should also be encouraged to prepare their own disaster kits for personal use.