Mahwah, NJ (October 23, 2005). Dr. Annette S. Freund, Owner and Managing Director of Freund Associates Technical Communication, collaborated with a team of experts to present a workshop called “Disaster Preparedness for Your Business,” sponsored by the Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce. The workshop was held October 23 at the Homewood Suites by Hilton, 375 Corporate Drive in Mahwah.

The topic was timely in light of the recent Hurricane Katrina, the devastating floods in New Orleans, and the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Events such as these remind all of us how vulnerable our businesses and our livelihoods can be.

The workshop asked participants to consider the following key questions: When disaster strikes, can you ensure the continuous operation of your small business?  Do you have a disaster preparedness plan?

Most studies conclude that approximately 25% of businesses that are forced to shut down after a disaster, even for a supposedly short time, do not open. With the help of a good disaster preparedness plan, your business doesn’t have to be one of the casualties.

Dr. Freund’s portion of the workshop focused on how to develop an Emergency Redbook. “This is a small-business survival kit,” said Dr. Freund. “It should contain the policies, procedures, and plans that your business will follow in an emergency. Its purpose is to save and store your vital records and emergency plans if/when disaster strikes.” 

Dr. Freund recommended 12 specific sections for the manual and provided samples for how to write each section. Participants received a CD “starter kit” to help them develop their own Emergency Redbook. 

Annette holds a doctorate in English/Writing Specialist from the State University of New York at Albany and has 20 years of experience as a consultant, technical writer, editor, professional trainer, and project manager for her own company. As a writing consultant, Annette has provided training development programs for organizations seeking process improvements and efficiencies, including disaster preparedness.

For more information, visit www.freundassociates.com, or contact Annette Freund at 201-512-0022.