As we near the height of hurricane season, all Floridians should have emergency plans that we review and discuss with our families. We also need to double check our emergency supply kits. The general rule is that we should have a minimum of three days (preferably five) of non-perishable food, water, and prescription drugs for all of our family members (including pets). And don't forget to safeguard your valuables and place your important documents in a waterproof container with copies in a safe place. Planning ahead and being prepared is the best way to weather the storm (pardon the pun). Visit http://www.ready.gov for more information.

Now that you have taken the necessary precautions for your family, what about your business? According to Florida's State Emergency Response Team (SERT) almost 40% of small businesses never reopen after a disaster. Think about New Orleans and the Gulf Coast post-Katrina. Don't let your business become another sad statistic.

Yes we all know about backing up data, but that's not all there is. In the event of a disaster (not just hurricanes, consider fire, flood, and tornadoes) you need to have a business continuity plan. Some questions you need to answer and your plan should address:

• What is the minimum amount of space and equipment you need if your current location is not available to you?
• Who are your critical employees?
• Do all of your employees know what to do in the event of a disaster?
• Is your business plan viable in the recovery stage of an emergency?
• How will your clients/customers and vendors/suppliers know how to find you?

A true business continuity plan enables you to not only reopen your business, but to open as quickly as possible after the disaster occurs. It will help you restore your livelihood and that of your employees, and will also enable our community to recover faster.

Contact the business continuity plan experts on the Treasure Coast for more information: ntb group at 772.538.1921 or paula@ntb-group.com.