Natural Disasters Defined

What qualifies as a natural disaster?Many of you know what a disaster is. But, do you really know what qualifies as an actual disaster? Disasters include everything from terrorist attacks to traffic accidents, floods to fires. The key to navigating a disaster (with as little loss possible) is to be prepared. Being prepared means having a plan in place for your home, family, business (employment), and your pets.

I know this seems to be common sense, but in a time of crisis simple things can become overlooked.
For pets make sure you have proper identification and that the animal is actually wearing it! Invest in good transport kennels before a disaster hits. Keep a stock pile for extra food and gallons of clean water.

If your pets take medication, keep a spare prescription in an emergency kit. If you have a diabetic pet make sure to discuss a pre-disaster plan with your vet at the next appointment.

Never ever evacuate a home or business and leave a pet behind. If you are told to evacuate, leave early and take the animals with you, even if you think you'll be gone just a few hours. It is a good idea to Google in a list of hotels that take animals in your area and two hours outside of your area. Jot down the phone numbers and put them in your wallet. Even if you put the numbers in your phone, keep a copy in your wallet because the disaster could interrupt cell phone service.

Until tomorrow,
Twyla Garrett

Developing HR Policies

Business owners usually hate developing HR policies. Why? Well, the task can take them away from the core of their business and marketing duties. But, having strong and comprehensive HR policies in place will help you stay clear from potential liability issues!

Why policies are important!

1. They communicate values and expectations for how things are done at your organization
2. They keep the organization in compliance with legislation and provide protection against employment claims
3. They document and implement best practices appropriate to the organization
4. They support consistent treatment of staff, fairness and transparency
5. They help management to make decisions that are consistent, uniform and predictable
6. They protect individuals and the organization from the pressures of expediency

There are many ways to go about setting up HR policies that are legal, fair and keep company moral up. If you don't know much about HR then seek out information online, through professional HR groups, or you can ask me. The best advise is to have your legal team run a review on all the policies you are thinking about setting up before you implement them!

For a great HR resource, check out http://www.humanresources.org/website/c/

Twyla