Courtesy of iii.org No business is totally immune from disaster. Every year, businesses temporarily shut downor close foreverbecause of a disaster such as a flood, fire or hurricane. Forty percent of businesses do not reopen after a disaster and another 25 percent fail within one year, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Fortunately, you can take proactive steps to mitigate the impact of a disaster on your business. In addition, carrying adequate insurance coverage can help your business get back on its feet quickly. Disaster preparation Householdsespecially in areas prone to hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakesoften prepare for disasters by storing extra supplies, having an evacuation plan, and learning about emergency resources. Businesses similarly want to prepare, with a focus on restoring your operations as soon as possible and minimizing your losses. To prepare adequately for a disaster, take the following steps: Develop a formal written …
Hurricanes
Outlook for 2018 Atlantic Hurricanes
Courtesy of iii.org Colorado State University (CSU) released its updated outlook for the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season today, and they are now calling for a below-normal season with a total of 11 named storms (including Alberto which formed in May), four hurricanes and one major hurricane (maximum sustained winds of 111 miles per hour or greater; Category 3-5 on the Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale) (Figure 1). This prediction is a considerable reduction from their June outlook which called for 14 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes. Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) and Net Tropical Cyclone (NTC) activity are integrated metrics that take into account the frequency, intensity and duration of storms. Figure 1: July 2, 2018 outlook for the forthcoming Atlantic hurricane season. CSU employs a statistical model as one of its primary outlook tools. The statistical model uses historical oceanic and atmospheric data to find predictors that worked well at forecasting …
Tornado Tips
Courtesy of iii.org Warnings/watches Remember that a watch means that weather conditions are favorable for tornadoes and a warning means one has been spotted in your area. Learn the warning signals used in your community. If a siren sounds, that means stay inside and take cover. Consider setting up a neighborhood information program through a club, church group or community group. Hold briefings on safety procedures as tornado season approaches. Set up a system to make sure senior citizens and shut-ins are alerted if there is a tornado warning. Seeking shelter Do not try to outrun a tornado. Instead, stay calm and seek shelter. At home or work, seek shelter in the central part of the building, away from windows. Basements are the best havens. If this is not an option, take cover in the bathroom, closet, interior hallway or under a heavy piece of furniture. If you are in your car, abandon your vehicle and seek shelter in the nearest ditch if no other facility is …