Create a Thriving Business District

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Businesses are a vital part of our community. They can lessen the impacts of a disaster or emergency on themselves and their communities by being prepared and becoming involved.

Taking business preparedness steps before a disaster can significantly assist in the ability of your business to recover and resume operations after a disaster. The Seattle Office of Emergency Management’s goal is to “build a disaster resilient community.” Businesses are encouraged to become aware of the hazards in your area, take action of injuries in the workplace from an earthquake, develop a business recovery plan for a disaster, and get involved with other businesses in your area.

The Disaster Resistant Business (DRB) Program has been specifically designed for businesses. The DRB incorporates a broader perspective of emergency preparation, based on business experiences following disasters such as the Nisqually Earthquake and September 11 th tragedies in 2001. This program includes a number of resources for all sizes of business. An electronic DRB “Toolkit” will assist businesses in taking steps to survive a disaster and will be available in March 2007. Take steps to protect your livelihood and the safety of your workplace.

If you have questions and are looking for information on business preparedness, call 206-615-0288 or visit the Office of Emergency Management website at http://www.seattle.gov/emergency/community/businesses.htm.

Neighborhoods and businesses both may benefit from Seattle ’s neighborhood program, SNAP (Seattle Neighborhoods Actively Prepare). SNAP is a process by which individuals organize to be self-sufficient for a minimum of three days. Businesses can adapt the structure of SNAP as a way to mobilize their own employees immediately after a disaster. For more information, call 206-233-5076 or visit the website at: http://www.seattle.gov/emergency/programs/snap/.

Frequently asked questions:

How can I find out more about landslide or earthquake risks?

The Office of Emergency Management can help you find information about landslide and earthquake risks for your area or even your address in some cases. For more information, call 206-615-0288 or visit: http://www.seattle.gov/emergency/programs/projectimpact/hazardmapping.htm.

How do get involved in the SNAP program?

The Office of Emergency Management holds classes throughout the city on how to organize using SNAP on a regular basis. The schedule and all SNAP materials are posted on the website at http://www.seattle.gov/emergency/programs/snap/. For more information, you may also call 206-233-5076.