If your business was shut down today due to a disaster, what would you do?
The City of Poway and Poway Chamber of Commerce are partnering to give local businesses the tools needed to get prepared, stay informed and keep functioning when disaster strikes. Registration is now open for “Preparing Your Business for Emergencies,” a special workshop from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 31 at the Poway Council Chambers, 13325 Civic Center Drive.
Following both natural and human-caused disasters, it’s estimated that 40 percent of businesses affected fail. This workshop was developed in the aftermath of a law enforcement investigation that prompted the closure of Poway Road. Several Poway businesses were unable to open that day, creating a hardship for owners, employees and customers alike.
The focus of this workshop goes beyond typical disasters, such as fires, floods and earthquakes. It looks at preparedness tips that will help a business in the event of just about any scenario, including power outages, active shooters and cyberattack. Poway’s Disaster Preparedness Coordinator, Susy Turnbull, will take participants through the steps of how to build a company action plan and share resources for making the planning process easier.
Turnbull actively works in building community preparedness through the city’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and in partnership with the Poway Neighborhood Emergency Corps (PNEC). She came to Poway after a 20-year career with the Red Cross, where she provided disaster support across the country and lead San Diego’s efforts to aid the thousands of families relocating here in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
Turnbull will be joined by Poway’s Community Outreach Coordinator, Rene Carmichael, who will discuss tips for staying informed during a crisis, which is a critical concern during any incident. Representatives from the Poway Sheriff’s station will be there as well to talk about their communications plan and be available for questions. Pre-registration through the Chamber’s website is required; light breakfast will be provided.