Verify backups away from the office
Confirm critical files and applications have current backups stored outside the building and outside the same likely impact area where practical. Test a restore and make sure authorized staff can reach recovery instructions if office systems are unavailable. Keep recovery access secure; do not distribute passwords in an emergency contact sheet.
Plan for power loss and safe shutdown
Review battery-backup health and decide which systems should shut down safely during an extended outage. A battery backup normally provides a limited window, not days of operation. Follow equipment guidance and qualified electrical advice for generators and surge protection. Never enter unsafe areas or touch wet electrical equipment to retrieve devices.
Make remote work usable before a storm
Test secure remote access, multifactor authentication, business phones and access to essential applications from outside the office. Identify alternate internet options and the people who need laptops or other equipment. Confirm that remote access does not depend entirely on an office server that may be offline.
Write down who does what and how to restart
Keep an accessible list of staff contacts, IT providers, internet providers and key vendors. Assign shutdown and recovery decisions, document the order for restoring essential systems, and agree on how staff will receive updates. After the storm, assess building and electrical safety before powering equipment back on. Revisit the plan before each season and after major changes.
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