Disaster Recovery News

Image from FEMA

September is National Preparedness Month and 2010 marks the seventh anniversary of this campaign. This year the Ready Campaign and the Ad Council, the companies that produce PSAs (public service announcements), are focusing on FEMA’s second step to being prepared, “Make a Plan.” The thought is that if families and businesses make an emergency preparedness plan, they will then take the steps to prepare an emergency disaster kit.

Events during September’s National Preparedness Month include a webinar on its Private Sector Preparedness Certification Program. The webinar will encourage businesses to make a preparedness plan that promotes business continuity so they can help the private sector get back in business quickly after a disaster. FEMA is also encouraging public and private sector organizations to become a NPM Coalition member and individuals to join the Citizen Corps.

While it is important to be prepared for a disaster, it is also important to remember to be prepared to recover. When making an emergency disaster plan for your home or business, include the steps you need to take to get back on your feet.

Learn more about disaster recovery.

Graphic from the RMHC website

The Ronald McDonald House in Columbia, Missouri has had to shut its doors temporarily while water damage in the center’s basement is remediated. The Ronald McDonald House Charities provide support to families who need a home away from home while their children receive treatment at nearby hospitals.

When Water Damage Hurts More than Just the Business

The water damage occurred at the Columbia Ronald McDonald house after flooding due to heavy rains caused the sump pump in the basement to overflow. “The Columbia Daily Tribune” reports the basement served as a common area where visiting families would congregate, have access to computers and do their laundry. Offices and storage areas are also located in the basement of the facility. This particular Ronald McDonald House can house up to 14 families.

Hospital social workers are working with the families who do not have the means to pay for a hotel, but need accommodations. In the meantime, restoration crews and community volunteers are working hard to repair the water damage quickly so the Ronald McDonald House can continue to support families attending to the needs of their hospitalized children.

Keep Business Continuity in Mind

It is imperative that businesses create an emergency preparedness plan that includes steps that detail what to do in the event of water damage. Not only is this important for business continuity, but also for those a business may support.

Learn more about developing a plan for your business.