Disaster preparedness in the hospitality industry

How to make the best plan for the worst situation

According to data from the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), 2023 was a record-breaking year for climate disasters. There were 28 weather and climate disasters in 2023, costing the U.S. economy $92.9 billion.

While you can’t control the weather or prevent unexpected emergencies, you can control your level of business preparedness. What can you do to best prepare your hospitality or foodservice-driven operation for the worst situations?

Here are some ideas to help you prepare for any type of emergency.

Create your business continuity plan

Your level of disaster preparedness in the hospitality industry can make or break your ability to get back up and running after an emergency. Entegra’s supply chain experts recommend taking proactive measure like:

• Creating a disaster menu that includes non-perishable foods
• Having an emergency food supply of shelf-stable ingredients
• Keeping a hard copy of your order guide for easy access

Do you have these emergency supplies stocked?

• A plan to communicate with your employees?
• Current list of critical phone numbers beyond 911? (Security, FEMA, American Red Cross)
• Containers for water and ice?
• Stocked emergency toolkit, first aid kit and weather radio?
• Manual can opener, an outside grill with charcoal and lighter fluid or a supply of sterno?
• Generators and gas?

Your specific needs will vary depending on the type of business you run, but having emergency supplies and procedures ready can protect your assets and ensure business continuity.

Download Entegra’s Disaster Preparedness Guide for more tips and handy checklists.

Ensure guest safety

During an emergency, clearly communicating safety procedures for evacuation or a shelter-in-place can save lives.

• Install emergency alert systems throughout your premises to provide immediate notifications to your guests. These systems include sirens, loudspeakers and digital displays that convey important instructions and updates.
• Train staff members on your emergency and business contingency plans.
• Designate safe shelter areas equipped with emergency supplies, such as food, water, first aid kits and blankets, to provide comfort and support until the situation is under control.

Disaster recovery solutions for the hospitality industry

When it comes to clean up and recovery, a timely response and the right partner can help you get back to business as quickly as possible. Entegra’s Local and Direct Program can connect you with suppliers like Belfor. Belfor is a restoration and general contracting company with locations throughout the U.S. They specialize in restoring damage from fire, water, storms and mold.

The unexpected can happen at any moment. Lessen the surprise and take steps today to ensure your operations and staff are ready for whatever comes your way.

Contact us to connect with an Entegra representative who can set your business up for success.

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https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/dyk/billions-calculations