There are numerous steps for your business to be prepared for an emergency. The resources and tips below will help you be prepared.
Emergency Kits
An emergency kit can vary based on your business’s needs, but a kit is not the only way to be prepared. There are multiple options on how to prepare your business.
Supplies to Keep on Hand
- Battery operated radio
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
- First-Aid Kit
- Copies of important documents placed in a waterproof bag
FEMA has suggestions as well for emergency kits for businesses.
Prepare My Business
The U.S. Small Business Administration, in conjunction with a variety of other agencies, has put together a comprehensive guide, Prepare My Business, to provide support and recommendations for business preparation in advance of emergencies and following emergencies. Prepare My Business includes printable resources as well as information for specific emergencies. There is information on preparing for a disaster, assistance following a disaster and much more.
Contacting Your Employees
- Notify your employees when there may be a pending weather emergency such as a snowstorm or hurricane. Let them know how you will contact them to notify them that your business is closed. Tip: if you have a voicemail system in your office, designate one line that will play recorded emergency messages.
- Make sure that you maintain emergency contact information for all employees to include at least one family member or friend.
Set up and test an emergency contact plan or call tree for your organization.
James City County Police Department
The James City County Police Department offers several services that may be helpful for a business in preventing crime emergencies. You can contact the Community Services Unit by calling 757-259-5174 or emailing police@jamescitycountyva.gov.
Business Watch
The Business Watch program provides a method by which the business community and the Police Department can work together to prevent or solve problems in business parks, malls, shopping centers, individual businesses, etc. The program is predicated on the same concept as the very successful Neighborhood Watch Program where neighbors watch out for neighbors. Business Watch participation enhances involvement with neighboring businesses and offers many benefits to businesses, residents and the Police Department.
The Police Department also provides instruction on numerous topics to businesses, homeowner groups, civic groups, etc. in the prevention of robbery, shoplifting, bad checks, burglary, fraud, credit card fraud and employee theft. They also provide instruction or presentations on home safety/security, business security and personal safety. To enroll in the Business Watch program, please complete an online enrollment form.
Business Security Surveys
The James City County Police Department will conduct a free, on-scene security survey of a business. They will also provide suggestions and information on how to keep a business safe.
Lighting Surveys
Lighting surveys can be performed upon request for local businesses or residents. The proper use of lighting is one of the most important aspects in dealing with public safety and crime prevention.
James City County Emergency Communications
Submit Keyholder Information
Businesses can help the Emergency Communications Center facilitate the safety of emergency responders. Providing up-to-date information assists police, fire and medical personnel in their response and on any necessary follow up actions that need to be done.
Please submit a keyholder information form to let the Emergency Communications Center know who should be contacted in the event of an emergency at your business after hours, or to update a keyholder's contact information. A keyholder should be able to arrive quickly at your place of business to provide first responders with access to the building for the purpose of protecting property and safety. The Emergency Communications Center recommends designating more than one keyholder to ensure that someone will always be available to help emergency responders protect your business.
Media Contact:
Amy Jordan, Director of Economic Development
757-253-6607; amy.jordan@jamescitycountyva.gov