It is such a helpless feeling watching the news as the images and video footage continue to come out of Texas and Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. VHMA has approximately 236 members in those two states and our thoughts and prayers are with each one of them, their families and the other millions suffering through this natural disaster.
It is sad when it takes a tragedy such as this to remind us of the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. While the majority of us will hopefully never have to endure anything of this magnitude, we all have the potential to experience our own unexpected crisis. How have you planned for such times? Do you have a written emergency plan and have you held mock run throughs?
While it is near impossible to plan for a category four hurricane bringing greater than 47 inches of rain, we can make sure we are protected and have contingency plans in place for more common emergencies such as a facility fire, extended power outage, or even loss of a supply chain with blizzard like conditions.
It seems each week is busier than the one before and the thought of planning for an event that may or may not take place seems a bit daunting and a priority that can be easily put off. Unfortunately, an unexpected emergency can have lasting and dire consequences with effects that can ripple far more than one can imagine.
In your planning, take the time to review your insurance plans. Is there sufficient coverage? Review your options for communicating to your staff and your clients in the event you have an emergency and need to redirect. Create steps and contacts that will be put in motion in the event of the unforeseen. Do your due diligence. Take some time to price and evaluate back-up generators, back-up batteries, etc. Assure your computer files will be safe off site, as will a copy of your entire emergency preparedness plan complete with phone numbers and account numbers. Take the time to practice with your staff and communicate the importance of everyone being on the same page.
The last thing any of us want to be saying is “I should have” or “I wish I would have” or “I never thought.” While it will be impossible to plan for every little detail, having some broad strokes in place before hand will give an advantage to ensuring the safety and viability of your team and the clients you serve going forward.
Brian C. Conrad, CVPM
President