PROACTIVE DISASTER PLANNING: LESSONS FROM INDUSTRY EXPERTS

Recently, the Northumberland Manufacturers' Association hosted an invaluable Disaster and Recovery Panel with  Adrian Khan of Surge Arrest Canada and Ian McCutcheon of Walton Restoration. The discussion offered crucial insights into preparedness, recovery, and resilience in times of crisis. Below, we’ve compiled some of the most impactful tips and takeaways from the event.

Start Now—Don’t Wait for a Crisis

Disaster planning doesn’t have to be complex from the get-go. Begin with a simple yet effective foundation:

• Create a list of key contacts who should be reached in an emergency.
• Designate a Decision Maker who can make quick, informed choices and serve as a primary contact for emergency response teams.

Communication Is Everything

In moments of crisis, clarity and speed matter. Make sure your team has a reliable communication method to send out updates immediately—whether it’s a messaging app, email alert system, or automated notifications. Being able to swiftly inform staff of evolving situations can be critical. 

Establish Multiple Communication Channels

Don’t rely on just one method. Use a mix of:

• Emergency notification apps (like mass texting or alert systems)
• Email updates
• Social media announcements
• Two-way radios for onsite teams
• Landline phones as backup

Create a Clear Chain of Command

Assign specific individuals the responsibility of disseminating information. Having designated Communication Leads prevents misinformation and ensures that accurate updates reach the right people promptly.

Use Technology to Automate Alerts

Automated emergency messaging systems can notify teams instantly. Look into alert apps or group messaging platforms that allow mass updates to be sent in seconds. Voip systems also have this capability.

Keep Contact Lists Updated

Ensure that employee emergency contacts, vendors, and local emergency services are documented and regularly updated. Outdated phone numbers can slow down response efforts. You can integrate technology to assist with updating documentation regularly.

Accessible Emergency Resources

Having a go-to document or binder that contains essential protocols and response plans ensures that everyone can easily reference the necessary steps when an emergency arises. Accessibility fosters efficiency and confidence in the face of uncertainty. Your team may have an updated binder but that might not be accessible for everyone on the team. Can this information be accessed on a mobile device and hot spot if the office can not be accessed? 

Equipment Maintenance: Prevention Over Reaction

Conducting regular audits on equipment allows businesses to detect potential issues early. Routine inspections and timely repairs help prevent situations from escalating into emergencies, saving time, resources, and operational continuity. If hardware is not being maintained regularly your insurance may not cover any incidents

Strengthen Relationships with Local Authorities

Municipalities are key allies in disaster recovery. Establishing a relationship with local governments can open avenues for partnerships and additional support during an emergency. These collaborations can be the difference between a swift resolution and prolonged recovery efforts. 

Taking proactive steps now will ensure that when disaster strikes, businesses can respond efficiently and recover effectively. These expert recommendations highlight the importance of preparation, communication, and collaboration.

For additional resources and guidance, reach out to Attitude IT at 416-900-6047—they’re equipped to help businesses build stronger, more resilient disaster plans.