Nobody likes to think about floods, cyberattacks, and other types of disasters. Taking a moment to consider how to best prepare for these risks, however, can go a long way towards avoiding a worst-case scenario.
September is National Preparedness Month, so there’s no better time for businesses and locals in Lincoln Square to finally sit down and address these issues proactively. For more than 20 years, National Preparedness month has helped Americans gain knowledge, make a plan, and build a kit in advance of all types of natural, medical, or security threats.
For businesses in Lincoln Square, it’s especially important to take these precautionary steps. Fortunately, the New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM)—the New York City government that coordinates the city’s response before, during, and after incidents—is here to help. The website privatesector.nyc has all the free, educational resources business owners and managers need to start building resilience.
This information applies to businesses of all sizes and covers everything from supply chain disruptions to damages to facility or storefront property. In addition, risk management experts from the NYCEM can facilitate a “tabletop exercise” for your business, in which the agency and members of your team come together to run through different scenarios. This practice can help to identify gaps and areas of the response plan that need to be strengthened.
NYCEM also encourages mid- and large-sized businesses in Lincoln Square to sign up for free email notifications from CorpNet. This service—from the agency’s Watch Command, which operates 24/7—provides businesses with current, accurate information about planned events and emergencies to enhance awareness and aid decision making.
For residents and visitors to Lincoln Square, the best first step is to sign up for free text message alerts through Notify NYC. By adding your ZIP code, locals can target the messages to receive information that’s targeted specially for your area.
As extreme weather events become more common, it’s especially vital to not delay making these preparations. The extra effort to have a plan, gather supplies, stay informed is worth the peace of mind.
Businesses and locals can contact the Lincoln Square BID at info@lincolnsqurebid.org if you need additional support getting in touch with NYCEM or have any other questions.
