Peach Tree Times

Hurricane Helene is on track to intensify into a major hurricane before reaching Florida's Big Bend on Thursday. The National Hurricane Center issued warnings on Wednesday, indicating the storm could cause tornadoes and heavy rainfall in southern Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina.

Businesses are advised to review their disaster plans or create one if none exists. Understanding potential risks is crucial, especially for businesses located in flood-prone areas or regions susceptible to tornadoes, hail storms, earthquakes, or other natural hazards.

Ensuring adequate insurance coverage is essential. Business owners should have enough insurance to rebuild both home and business structures. Policies should be reviewed for coverage details, including consideration of business interruption insurance and flood insurance.

Business assets should be documented through photographs and videos stored online or in waterproof and fireproof containers kept securely offsite.

An emergency response plan should include evacuation routes and meeting places with emergency contacts readily available. A communications plan designating a contact person outside the affected area can help maintain connections with employees, customers, and vendors when local phone lines may be down.

Backing up business records is critical; vital documents should be stored securely in a second location. Electronic records need to be backed up to the cloud while paper documents should reside in a fireproof safety deposit box.

A disaster kit containing essentials like a flashlight, portable radio, fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, non-perishable food, bottled water, basic tools, plastic sheeting, and garbage bags should be assembled for emergencies. Employees are encouraged to prepare similar kits for themselves and their families.