Plan for the Best, Prepare for the Worst

From our Facebook Page.

Having a records management plan in place helps businesses not only stay organized, but allows for accurate business decisions. But accidents and disasters do happen and often occur when you least expect them. With the 2013 hurricane season underway, what can businesses do now to prepare for the worst?

• Create backups of key documents: This includes hard copy records and files as well as digital data. Consider keeping backups in multiple locations so if a fire broke out, another copy of your key records would still be safe.
• Find a secure offsite storage facility: Store information offsite in a location that’s been designed to withstand high sustained winds, is located in a non-flood zone, has a secure vault and is also secured with alarms, security cameras and pass codes.
• Have 24/7 access: Disaster can strike at any time, so you’ll want to be sure that no matter what time of day or what day of the week it is, you can access the information.
• Utilize a third party: For extra advice or even reassurance, look for a company that specializes in records management and storage. Find a firm that has multiple, secure records centers that has experience helping protect local companies from potential disasters.

With a plan in place and the above in mind, businesses can maintain day-to-day activities through hurricane season and beyond.