Local businesses provide needed services for their community. They can be a source of comfort in the aftermath of a storm and make the transition process a little smoother. However, when businesses are slow to recoup and meet the needs of their consumers, that hardship is that much more prominent. When we cannot go to the grocery store to purchase water and food or the hardware store to purchase tools for rebuilding or the gas station to purchase gas anxiety increases and the community?s ability to cope is taxed.

Post Hurricane Charlie, many businesses have taken initiatives that will allow them to recover quicker in the aftermath of a disaster event. Some gas stations and major grocery stores have installed generators that will allow them to function even with the loss of power. Other businesses have looked at creating emergency plans so that their employees may have a level of security. Scroll down to view a list of local businesses that have taken the necessary steps to better their chances for post-disaster recover.

 If you are a local business and do not know where to start, these are some helpful links to jump start your emergency planning.

Links
Business Emergency Planning
CDC Emergency Planning
Ready.gov Business Preparedness
Ready.gov Business Continuity Planning
Ready.gov Samples Business Emergency Plan (.pdf / 466.51kb)
FEMA Business Emergency Planning
FEMA Emergency Management Guide for Businesses (.pdf / 348kb)

Local Retailers equipped with Generator Back-up
(Please note, if you are a business with a back-up generator that will increase your chances continuing to serve community members in the aftermath of a storm and would like to be added to this list, please contact us with your information.