Know Where to Get Resources
Following a disaster, when laptop batteries are low or Internet time is limited, it’s important to know where to go first for valuable information and resources.
The New Jersey Business Action Center shared a number of great websites that all business owners should bookmark in case of a disaster:
- The Business Action Center (BAC) (866-534-7789) – New Jersey’s “one-stop-shop” for businesses, the Business Action Center is a resource-rich website all year round, but following Sandy, it was a great place to get critical information such as contact information for county emergency management offices, business recovery checklists with steps business owners needed to take following the storm, locations to charge phones or use a computer or desk for free, as well as links to apply for low-interest loans and federal aid. And while these examples are Sandy-specific, this is the kind of information the BAC would be obligated to provide to you in the event of another disaster.
- New Jersey Small Business Development Center (NJSBDC) – The NJSBDC network is on call to help your business in the Sandy recovery and beyond. The NJSBDC provides technical assistance and consulting services at no cost to your business.
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) (800-621-3362) – With FEMA, business owners and homeowners can register for government aid and get the locations of Disaster Recovery Centers to meet one-on-one with experts.
- State of NJ Website – Official announcements from the office of the Governor, including temporary rule waivers, health advisories, rebuilding guidelines, school closings, open gas stations, as well as where to volunteer.
- NJBIA (609-393-7707) – And, of course, do not forget to visit your partner in business.
Preparedness Planning for Your Business –Ready Business
Ready Business will assist businesses in developing a preparedness program by providing tools to create a plan that addresses the impact of many hazards. This website and its tools utilize an “all hazards approach” and follow the program elements within National Fire Protection Association 1600, Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs. NFPA 1600 is an American National Standard and has been adopted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
