Hurricane Irene disrupted the lives of communities and businesses from North Carolina to New Hampshire last weekend. Business owners were hit particularly hard, as power outages forced many to close for several days.
The first 72 hours following business interruption is crucial. Preparation can make a difference, and protect you from having to shut down for good. To kick off National Preparedness Month, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Agility Recovery Solutions will host the first in a series of free disaster preparedness webinars during the month of September.
R. David Paulison, former administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, will present tips on how to be self-sufficient in the days following a natural disaster or other emergency during the webinar on Wednesday, September 7, at 2 p.m. ET.
SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies for entrepreneurs via their “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to access previous webinars and additional preparedness tips. Webinars on business and community preparedness, as well as a discussion on best practices hosted by business owners who recovered from recent disasters will be held on consecutive Wednesdays during the month.
The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.
WHO: R. David Paulison, Former Administrator, FEMA
WHAT: “Culture of Preparedness—The 72 Hour Rule” will be presented by Paulison. A question and answer session will follow.
WHEN: Wednesday, September 7, 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EDT
HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/582741824