How can I look after my business during storm season?

With wet season well and truly upon us, this month’s Ask An Expert article with the Mackay and Whitsunday Life asks:  How can I look after my business during storm season?

Chamber members Kapow Interactive and Porters Mitre 10 Mackay and Whitsundays respond.

To effectively assist our customers in preparing for seasonal weather events and potential disasters, Porters Mitre 10 Mackay and Whitsundays offer expert advice and a wide range of essential products. From storm preparation kits and emergency supplies to tools and materials for home repairs, they’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether it’s securing your home, protecting your family, or ensuring your business is disaster-ready, trust Porters Mitre 10 for all your preparation needs.

Their advice to businesses includes:

• Create and maintain a disaster recovery plan for your business operations and facility and regularly assess risks.
• Ensure your business insurance covers weather-related damages.
• Set up backups for your power, payment systems, and data.
• Train staff on emergency and disaster recovery roles and procedures.
• Have a plan in place to protect your stock, equipment, assets, and staff.

Megan Taylor of digital marketing company Kapow Interactive suggests the following:

• Ensure key business data is backed up and offsite, and you have a way to access it if you are offsite, or if there is a power outage.
• Have emergency contact details handy including insurance, staff and suppliers.
• Decide how you will prepare your office, communicate internally, and accommodate staff needs.
• Consider what to tell customers and suppliers – cancel incoming orders and advise customers of potential delays.
• Update digital messages with Google Business and social media profiles, website and email marketing.
• Plan ahead so you have a procedure or checklist to follow which minimises disruption to your business.

We encourage everyone in the community to stay prepared and stay safe during storm season.