If anyone thought hurricane season was long gone, it is letting us know this week it is not. With the impending storms ahead, businesses must prioritize the protection of their IT infrastructure to ensure minimal disruption during and after the storm. Hurricanes pose serious risks to physical assets and the continuity of business operations. Symmetric IT Group has years of experience guiding companies through natural disasters, and we’re here to share our comprehensive IT preparation checklist to help you safeguard your important devices and office setup. Read below for all the Hurricane Preparation for Business tips.

Preparing Your IT Infrastructure Days Before the Hurricane 

When a hurricane is forecasted in your area, taking early and deliberate action can save time and reduce the risk of damage. Here are the critical steps of hurricane preparation for business: 

1. Ensure Backups and Data Protection 

Your business data is one of your most valuable assets. At Symmetric IT Group, we routinely check backups and systems, but we encourage you to verify that your backups are working properly. Here’s how you can do that: 

  • Cloud Backups: Ensure all files, databases, and systems are being backed up to the cloud regularly. Double-check that these backups are current and complete. 
  • Offsite Backups: If you use physical backups, make sure those drives or tapes are stored in a secure, offsite location. In hurricane-prone areas, it’s best to avoid keeping backups on-site due to potential flooding or physical damage. 

If you’re unsure of the status of your backups or need help securing them, contact Symmetric IT Group, and we’ll make sure your data is safe. 

2. Power Down and Disconnect Your Devices 

Power surges and outages are common during hurricanes and can severely damage your office equipment. To avoid this, follow these steps: 

  • Shut Down Computers: Power down all computers on the last day your office will be open before the storm hits. This ensures that no sensitive data is lost or corrupted. 
  • Unplug Ethernet Cables: Remove the Ethernet cable from the back of each computer to protect against potential electrical surges through the network. 
  • Surge Protectors and UPS: If your computers are connected to a surge protector or Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), turn off the UPS and unplug it from the wall. If your equipment lacks surge protection, make sure to unplug it from the wall outlet to prevent damage from power fluctuations. 

If you don’t have a UPS, this is an ideal time to consider upgrading to one, as it can significantly reduce the risk of data loss during unexpected power outages. 

3. Label and Document Your Setup 

Before you start disconnecting cables and devices, take a moment to document how everything is set up: 

  • Take Photos: Use your phone to take clear pictures of the back of your computers, printers, and servers, showing all the connected cables and ports. 
  • Label Cables: Use cable tags or tape to label important connections, making it easier to reconnect devices after the storm. 

This simple step will save you time and confusion when you’re setting things back up post-storm. 

4. Prepare and Protect Other Devices 

Other office equipment such as printers, servers, and network devices also need protection: 

  • Printers: Turn off all printers, disconnect the Ethernet cables, and unplug them from the surge protector or wall outlet. 
  • Servers: Symmetric IT Group will monitor your servers remotely, but if the storm is projected to be a direct hit, we may shut them down ahead of time. If you prefer a proactive approach, we can coordinate with you to shut them down before the storm reaches your area. 

5. Safeguard Physical Equipment 

In addition to shutting down and unplugging devices, consider the physical protection of your equipment: 

  • Elevate Devices: Move computers, servers, and other devices off the floor, especially if you are in a flood-prone area. 
  • Cover Equipment: Use waterproof covers or bags to protect electronics from potential leaks or floods. 

During the Hurricane 

Once the storm is close, ensure you’ve taken the final steps to secure your office and equipment.

1. Double-Check Everything is Off 

Ensure that all devices are powered down and disconnected from the network and power sources. This includes: 

  • Computers: Verify that every computer is shut down and unplugged from the wall. 
  • UPS and Surge Protectors: Make sure these are fully turned off and disconnected from the wall outlet. 

2. Focus on Safety 

Your personal safety and the safety of your team are the top priorities during a hurricane. Ensure all preparations are complete and follow local emergency guidelines for evacuation or sheltering in place. Symmetric IT Group will be remotely monitoring systems but stay in touch for any urgent updates. 

By following these steps, your business will be better equipped to weather the storm and recover quickly once it passes. Continue following our blog for more Hurricane Preparation for Businesses.

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