First and foremost, be safe. Take the appropriate steps to ensure that you are ready for the impending storm and any crises that may arise as a consequence of the damage. Once you're sure you're ready, follow our advice to make the most of a remote workday.
While we cannot control the weather, technology has enabled us to work from anywhere in many circumstances, allowing business activities to continue from the comfort and safety of our homes.
Have a strategy
As hurricane season approaches, consider any new job factors that may be impacted. Then devise a strategy to achieve those requirements. For example, backup power sources, internet connection, and other necessities are frequently included. If you rely on grid electricity, for example, make sure you have a backup generator or alternative power source. Also, make sure that all of your laptop and phone batteries are regularly charged and ready to use.
File Backups
Prior to the storm, it is excellent practice to back up any electronic papers or critical information to the cloud or an internal corporate server. This guarantees that other members of the team may continue working on tasks that you are unable to complete, and it also safeguards essential data if anything happens to your computer.
Along the same lines, if you must evacuate, make sure you take your work laptop with you or secure any critical data, rather than leaving it unprotected while you're away.
Batteries, a flashlight, and a portable radio
The first item most people seek for during a power outage is a flashlight, so have one in an easily accessible location and a fresh supply of batteries on hand. If you use rechargeable batteries, charge them ahead of time.
Having a portable radio on hand for weather updates is also useful during a power outage. If you want to buy a portable radio, search for one that can be powered manually with a hand crank - many even have USB connectors for charging phones.
Money and medication for an emergency
It's critical to have cash on hand during a hurricane, especially if electricity is off. While you might be able to make it to your neighborhood deli for supplies, they might not be able to handle credit cards, so stop by an ATM on your way home.
If you take prescriptions, make sure you have a few days' worth on hand, and check your first aid kit to make sure it's packed with common items - and that what you have hasn't expired.
Keep up to date
Anyone who has lived through a storm will tell you that staying up to speed on the latest weather information is the most critical thing you can do. Official sources, such as the National Hurricane Center, are your best chance for reliable and fast storm information. With that information, you may notify your teammates when you will be unavailable and when they can anticipate you to return online.
Communicate with colleagues and family members
Maintain communication with work throughout and immediately after the storm, if feasible. If you have mobile coverage but are having trouble maintaining your internet connection, consider utilizing an app or email on your phone. Make sure you're conveying reasonable expectations about what you can and cannot do within this period.
There's no need to go into great detail, but just alerting your employer and team to the connectivity issues you're experiencing will help you all work together to fulfill deadlines and maintain your productivity.
Be adaptable
The days and weeks following a hurricane may be as chaotic as the storm itself. There are downed trees and power wires, and the roadways are filled with debris. In the midst of all this craziness, it's critical to remain flexible with your work schedule and prioritize your most pressing duties.
You may need to take time off work to clean up or make repairs, and you may not be able to complete all of your tasks owing to slower connectivity. However, by being adaptable and prioritizing correctly, you will be able to navigate the hurricane and its aftermath with less job stress.
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