Disaster Preparedness for Florida Businesses
Business Disaster Resources: Before the Storm
Stay Informed:
- www.nhc.noaa.gov – Get the latest information on Hurricane Irma at the National Hurricane Center.
- 850-815-4925 – The Private Sector Hotline has been activated by the state for business inquiries about the storm, preparedness information, and post-impact information.
- 800-342-3557 – The Florida Emergency Information Line (FEIL) is a toll-free hotline activated at the time of an emergency to provide an additional resource for those in Florida to receive accurate and up-to-date information regarding an emergency or disaster situation impacting the State of Florida. FEIL line is currently activated and available 24 hours/7 days a week.
- www.FloridaDisaster.org – The state’s official source of general and specific information for individuals and businesses about Hurricane Irma from the Florida Division of Emergency Management.
Create a Plan:
- Get A Plan – Get a Plan assists businesses in developing a family and/or business plan utilizing the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s online templates. Utilize the preparedness app FDEM Google Play | iTunes
- Ready.gov/Business – Ready Business assists businesses in developing a preparedness program by providing tools to create a plan that addresses the impact of many hazards.
Prepare a Business Ready “Records-To-Go” Box:
Every business should have a Business Ready “Records-To-Go” box that includes important documents and supplies necessary for business to continue after a disaster. Make sure the box is fire- and
waterproof. Some suggested records include:
- Business Continuity, Emergency Preparedness, and Disaster Recovery Plan
- Emergency contact list of employees and key customers
- Insurance policies and agent information
- List of suppliers and vendors
- Back-up computer systems and data files
- Bank records
Additional Resources to Help Businesses Stay Informed and Prepare:
- Disaster Preparedness for Small Businesses Webinar – The Florida SBDC at Florida International University (FIU), a member of the Florida SBDC Network, has prepared a short 25-minute webinar with business preparedness tips.
- SBA Hurricane Preparedness Checklist – The U.S. Small Business Administration’s Hurricane Preparedness Checklist helps businesses prepare before, during, and after a hurricane. The checklist covers important steps such as protecting employees, safeguarding facilities and equipment, securing critical business records, reviewing insurance coverage, and planning for business continuity to help your business recover more quickly after a storm.
- Florida Virtual Business Emergency Operations Center (FLVBEOC) – The FLVBEOC has been activated to a Level 1, a full-scale, 24-hour activation, providing businesses with valuable preparedness information.
- 1-866-9-NO-SCAM – The 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226) number is the toll-free fraud and price-gouging hotline operated by the Florida Attorney General’s Office. You can use it to report scams, price gouging, and deceptive business practices directly to the state.
- Statewide Private Sector Re-Entry Program – Following a hurricane or other disaster, local officials determine when it is safe for businesses to re-enter impacted areas. To help facilitate re-entry, business owners and employees should be prepared to present:
- a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport)
- proof of employment or business affiliation (such as employer credentials or a letter on company letterhead)
- documentation demonstrating the need to enter the area, such as a work order, inventory list, or employer authorization.
