Every business should have a “ready-to-go” box that includes important documents and supplies necessary to continue after a disaster. According to the Florida Small Business Development Center Network, 43 percent of small businesses that close because of a disaster never reopen.

To help your business survive after a disaster here are some suggested records to include in your “ready-to-go” box, which should be fire and water resistant.  

• Business continuity, emergency preparedness and disaster recovery plan to include documents required for disaster loans and/or other assistance available after a disaster
• Current profit and loss statement, and balance sheet with schedules
• Inventory list and photographs
• Current schedule of liability
• Tax returns for the last three years
• Emergency contact list of employees and key customers/clients
• Insurance policies and agent information
• List of suppliers and vendors
• Voicemail box number and remote password information
• Backup computer systems/data files
• General office supplies
• Photographs of business inside and out
• Camera to document damage
• Cash reserves
• Bank records including checking, savings, credit and debit cards, loans and letters of credit