As you may know, Hurricane Danny is currently a Category 1 storm in the Atlantic. While its current location places it well away from our state, the projected track warrants attention to several early preparation steps. This checklist is basic but will give you a good idea of things to consider.

  1. Backups and Disaster Recovery. One of the most important is to ensure that you have solid backups stored off-site. Backups that are stored off-site can often take days or weeks to complete when initiated. If you currently have our backup service, our team is reviewing backups to ensure they are complete and current. Additionally, if your servers are destroyed or will be inaccessible period of time, do you have the data you need to continue working or service your clients? Do you know what you need to do in order to set up a temporary office? Computers? Servers?
  2. Phones. If your business is needs to continue to provide services during or after a storm, do you have a way to receive or make phone calls? If you have VoIP services, your provider should confirm that they are able to route calls to your cell phone or an alternative location in case of an emergency or if your office should become inaccessible.
  3. Documents. Insurance policies, emergency contact information, titles, deeds, certificates, banking and investment information and many other documents should be kept in an accessible place. If the need arises to evacuate, this will make the preparation go quicker.

If it appears that the storm will be affecting our area, these additional steps may help minimize damage to your office and equipment.

  1. Ensure there are no electronics on the floor or close to windows and doors.
  2. Unplug computers and other electronic devices. To avoid losing cables, place them in plastic zipper bags and tape them to the device they belong to. Be sure to label all computers.
  3. If you need assistance with moving or storing your server, please contact us and we'll be glad to help - but please plan ahead as much as possible!

To keep on top of the latest hurricane track and information, visit NOAA's site for Hurricane Danny at http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_at4+shtml/203240.shtml?5-daynl.