Continuity Planning is a hot topic in the business community but it doesn’t necessarily require a lot of time or money. All it means is that you think about what you will need to re-open your business quickly, should an emergency require you to shut down operations. Many small business owners do not have the time or money to hire professional continuity planners, but there are still steps they can take to prepare for emergencies.

Step 1: Assess the hazards
Step 2: Plan to stay in business
Step 3: Talk to your people
Step 4: Protect your investment
Step 5: Know how to respond