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Disaster Planning Resources
In today’s rapidly changing world, businesses face unforeseen challenges and disasters that can disrupt operations, threaten livelihoods, and even jeopardize survival. Whether it’s a natural disaster, a technological failure, or an unforeseen crisis, being prepared is the key to safeguarding your business and ensuring its continuity during challenging times.
Proactive planning and preparedness can help mitigate the impact of disasters and lead to faster recovery. This disaster planning page outlines local, state and federal/national resources designed to equip existing York County businesses with the knowledge, tools and resources they need to face uncertainty head-on.
Remember that disaster preparedness is crucial for the survival and continuity of any business. Taking the time to develop a comprehensive plan and utilizing these resources can help small businesses better cope with and recover from emergencies and disasters.
Check out the below links for a wealth of valuable information and actionable steps to develop your own comprehensive disaster preparedness strategy before tragedy strikes!
LOCAL RESOURCES
Chambers of Commerce
Check with the area’s local chambers of commerce. They often have disaster planning resources tailored to the specific needs of businesses in our region.
Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
The SBDC has resources, webinars, and workshops related to disaster preparedness for small businesses in Hampton Roads.
Contact the Hampton Roads SBDC for assistance.
Jolie Spiers, Executive Director
(757) 373-7102 Mobile or jspiers@hrchamber.com
101 W. Main Street, Suite 800, Norfolk, VA 23510
Insurance Company Resources
Many insurance providers offer disaster planning resources and advice to their policyholders. Check with your insurance company for specific information tailored to your business needs.
York County Emergency Management
This office is responsible for planning a comprehensive, whole community, threat, hazard and risk-based emergency management program.
STATE RESOURCES
ENDEAVOR-VA
ENDEAVOR-VA is a structured, safe, integrated planning model to formalize partnerships between emergency management at all government levels and private sector partners to reduce the impacts of hazards in the Commonwealth.
State Corporation Commission
Prepare for storms and natural disasters by making sure your home, business, or automobile is properly insured and know how to file an insurance claim in the event of property damage.
Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM)
The VDEM website has valuable resources, guidelines, and information on disaster preparedness for businesses in the state of Virginia.
Contact the VDEM for assistance.
Jennifer E. Sharpe, Director Operational Coordination Division
Jennifer.Sharpe@vdem.virginia.gov
9711 Farrar Ct. Suite 200, Richmond, VA 23236
Virginia’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
The SBDC has resources, webinars, and workshops related to disaster preparedness for small businesses in the state and across the country.
The below button links are resources to learn more about disaster planning.
Contact the SBDC for assistance.
Marc Wilson, Retail Industry Consultant
marc@virginiasbdc.org
(703) 443-1382 Office, (703) 999-3048 Mobile
FEDERAL/NATIONAL RESOURCES
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross offers resources and training for businesses to prepare for emergencies and natural disasters.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
CDC's website provides information on emergency preparedness for businesses, including guidance for dealing with public health emergencies.
Etsy Emergency Relief Fund
Sellers will be eligible for a grant if they experienced a federally declared natural disaster within the past year, have been an active seller on Etsy for at least one year, and their Etsy account is in good standing.
FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
FEMA provides various resources for disaster preparedness and recovery. Their website offers information on continuity planning and how to protect yourself and your business from different types of disasters.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
NFPA offers codes and standards for fire safety planning in businesses.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
OSHA provides guidelines and resources for workplace safety, including emergency action plans.
Ready.gov
This is a comprehensive resource provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It offers guidance on creating emergency plans, understanding different types of disasters, and preparedness tips for businesses.
Ready Rating
This is a program provided by the American Red Cross that helps businesses and organizations assess their preparedness and offers tools to improve their readiness.
Score.org
Resources are provided to empower you to make the best decisions for your company through disasters, economic downturns, and catastrophic events.
Small Business Administration (SBA)
This agency is dedicated to small business owners and entrepreneurs by providing counseling, capital, expertise and resources. SBA offers disaster assistance for businesses affected by disasters.
USA.gov
Locate and understand government benefits, programs, services and information.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation has a number of business-led solutions to help small businesses prepare and recover from disasters, and build stronger, more resilient communities in the U.S. and around the world.