When I receive a request from a business owner, the first step I take is to find out what disaster preparedness has been put in place. As I learn more about the business, I point out what could happen, what supplies are needed (such as food, water, medical supplies), and in what quantity for the number of staff who work in the business.

I go through a checklist of "what ifs" and set up a training schedule for the disaster aspect of the location. I also introduce the health and safety training, which includes CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), AED (automated external defibrillator), and basic first aid for medical emergencies, ranging from paper cuts to falls, strokes, diabetic issues, heart attacks, and cardiac arrest.

Did you know heart attacks and cardiac arrest are two separate issues and are not interchangeable?

The next phase is to bring in other experts who can review the business's potential financial disasters, insurance disasters, technology disasters, and whatever else might be needed. These experts make suggestions and recommendations for the business and provide another free service to raise awareness of potential pitfalls for the owner.

Disaster preparedness includes so much more than how much food and water you have on hand.