I love living on the East Coast, but hurricane season keeps us on our toes 1 June through 30 November. Prepare your small business before the angst and uncertainty of an approaching storm become completely engulfing.

Before the storm: Developing Standard Operating Procedures specifically for storm preparation, level(s) of functioning during the storm, and post-storm recovery are paramount. Written plans will help you focus on the necessary steps to protect and preserve your livelihood when you are otherwise preoccupied watching the weather reports and readying your household. Incorporate a communications plan, checklists for: evacuation protocols, securing property and paperwork, and post-storm assessment. The Associated Press article by Joyce M. Rosenberg, 5 things for businesses to know about disaster recovery offers tips and resources.