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Hurricane Resources

Hurricanes are part of life in Florida, and we want to ensure you and your business are prepared. Check here throughout the season for updated tips and resources.

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Prepare for the Storm

Tips to help you prepare your home and business before the storm.

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 Post Storm Resources

List of organizations and resources to support once the storm has passed.

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WBENC Q&A

Do you have questions regarding your WBENC application?

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How to Prepare

How to Prepare Your Home and Family for a Storm

Read through these tips from the federal government to be sure you and your loved ones are ready and to understand the differences between storm categories.

 

How to Prepare Your Business for a Storm

Here are 10 essential tips to help your business prepare for a hurricane:

  1. Develop a disaster plan. Establish a comprehensive emergency plan for your employees, outlining evacuation procedures, communication channels, and post-disaster recovery steps.
  2. Back up data. Regularly back up all critical data to an off-site location or cloud storage to ensure data integrity after the storm.
  3. Secure your property. Install storm shutters, secure doors and windows, and elevate important equipment and documents above flood-prone areas.
  4. Check insurance coverage. Review your business insurance policy to ensure coverage for property damage, flood and business interruption.
  5. Create a business continuity plan. Identify critical operations and create contingency plans to maintain essential functions during and after the hurricane.
  6. Set up emergency contacts. Compile a list of emergency contacts, including employees, vendors and insurance agents, ensuring everyone knows who to contact during and after the storm.
  7. Stock emergency supplies. Keep emergency supplies such as first aid kits, water, flashlights, batteries and other essentials on hand at your business premises.
  8. Prepare financial reserves. Set aside emergency funds to cover potential expenses like repairs, equipment replacement or temporary relocation.
  9. Communicate with customers. Inform your clients about potential disruptions in service and provide updates via email, social media or your website.
  10. Document and photograph assets. Take photos and videos of your inventory, equipment and property before the hurricane to have a detailed record for insurance claims.

 

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After the Storm

  1. FEMA Assistance: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers disaster recovery loans and grants. Visit their website to explore what’s available for businesses affected by the storm. FEMA.gov and FEMA Q&A
  2. Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans: The SBA provides low-interest disaster recovery loans for businesses. It’s worth checking out their programs tailored for your needs. Hurricane Helene Assistance and Hurricane Milton Assistance
  3. Local Resources: Many local government agencies and business organizations offer support, from financial assistance to temporary relocation options. Check with your City and County Government.  Local Chambers of Commerce or local business associations may also offer support.
  4. Insurance Claims: Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Make sure to document all damages with photos.
  5. Community Support: Don’t hesitate to tap into community-based support systems. Local networks and business groups can offer shared resources, temporary workspaces, or partnerships during the rebuilding phase.
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WBENC Q&A

Your certification is of utmost importance to you us. Please review the list below and reach out to our office if you have any questions.

  1. If you are pending any information on your application and need additional time, please contact Lisa Roblejo to request an extended deadline to send in any pending documents.
  2. If you are pending a site visit and need additional time, to please contact Gelcy Capote.
  3. If you are either coming up for recertification or have passed your certification you have up to 90 days after your certification expiration date to submit your recertification application. 

Please direct all other questions to Lisa Roblejo.

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