Disaster Preparation Checklist for Businesses

Are your business finances disaster-proof? We want to help you make sure they are. Plan ahead for the unexpected by taking these steps to protect your business.

Prepare your finances

• Secure financial records such as accounts payable and receivable, payroll and banking information, customer databases or information, and employee records.
• Keep adequate cash reserves and credit lines. We recommend that businesses keep at least three months' worth of cash needs on hand. It is also a good idea to establish a credit line – before it's needed – so your business has something to fall back on in case of a financial crunch.
• Develop a vendor services list with key contact phone numbers.
• Arrange in advance with key vendors to provide support services to get you back in business.

Protect people and property

• Protect your equipment: Unplug electronic equipment, and relocate it if possible or elevate it. Cover equipment with plastic sheeting and plastic bags and duct tape.
• Create an emergency response plan for your company that includes an evacuation plan, emergency numbers and the locations of key shut-off valves, including water, electrical and gas, complete with pictures. Put a laminated version of this plan on a bulletin board for easy access and distribute digital copies as well.
• Involve employees from all levels in planning for an emergency. Set up phone call trees, run drills and share printed and electronic details about your company's disaster plan and procedures.
• Consider preemptive measures, such as having automatic backup generators in the case of a power outage, as well as proactive measures, such as alternate locations to conduct business if your facility is unusable.

We're ready to help

Regions' bankers are prepared to help you keep your business finances on track after a disaster. Contact us to discuss your unique circumstances and we will work with you to discover solutions.

You may be asked to provide additional information based on your unique business needs. Please have the following items available when you call for assistance:

• Existing Regions account information
• Two years financial information for both business and owners/guarantors