FORGET Y2K! JUST PLAN FOR A STORM

ALL-WEATHER PLANNING

Storm Preparation is Advisable Almost Anytime

Forget Y2K. If you are prepared for a bad storm, you will probably be prepared for anything Y2K throws your way. Here are some prudent and practical suggestions.

General Home & Business Risk Management Checklist

Objective: to be able to provide for yourself, your family and your business for at least one week. The following would provide adequately in event of severe snowstorms, hurricanes, tornadoes or anything else that could interrupt power and services for up to a week or more. Check off each when ready.

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• Cash: Have cash available in case banks and banking machines are closed.
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• Food & Water: Buy extra water and non-perishable food, including pet food (if applicable). If you know when the storm will hit, fill your bathtub(s) with water.
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• Keep your car's gas tank filled. Keep some extra gas in safe containers in your garage.
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• Firewood: If you have a fireplace, make sure you have a good supply of firewood and cooking equipment that can be used on an open fire.
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• Kerosene or propane heaters or generators if they would be absolutely crucial to health or business.
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• Grill: Also keep a portable grill handy with adequate fuel -- i.e. charcoal or propane
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• Emergency Lighting: Candles, flashlights (with extra batteries), lanterns (oil or propane)
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• Health Care Supplies: This is especially important if you or any members of your family or business have special health care needs. Medications, equipment, first aid kits. Places to go if necessary, i.e. where there are generators if someone needs power for medical equipment.
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• Blankets and warm clothes.
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• Basic tool kit. Have enough tools to be able to effect basic repairs and adjust mechanical devices.
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• Office - keep some similar supplies at the office in case you need to sleep overnight.
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• Alternate work sites. Assuming you have had your computers checked for Y2K compliance, designate alternative work sites if your current site should lose power. Be able to pack up and move the essential hardware and information needed to keep your business running. Inform your employees as to your contingency plan.

Financial Risk Management

Objective: To be able to keep your financial affairs running as smoothly as possible in the event of emergencies, disability or death.

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• List of Assets and Liabilities: Have a written inventory of your financial situation, including account/policy numbers, locations and telephone numbers.
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• Names and phone numbers of key advisors
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• Location of important documents, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, passports, lines of credit, etc.
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• Letter of Instructions: In case you are not able to communicate, write a letter for your family detailing your wishes regarding your affairs. Let them know where this letter is located.
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• Insurance: Make sure you have the right types of policies and that the premiums have been paid.
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• Records: Keep good records of all transactions.

Of course, this list does not cover all possible problem areas. It does address some of the most common. You should examine your specific situation and add or subtract from this list as appropriate.