Mother Nature often exudes a peaceful aurora of joy and happiness but it is wise never to dismiss the potential of wrath and scorn she is capable of unleashing. Last year marked the first time in U.S. history that two consecutive hurricane seasons used all 21 storm names, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. From flooding to fires to mudslides and landslides to tornadoes to severe storms to straight-line winds to avalanches to earthquakes to tsunamis to water shortages to blizzards and snowstorms and so much more the unpredictability and devastating effects of nature are very real. While it is smart to expect the unexpected when it comes to dealing with the erratic environmental factors of the outdoors, how can you protect important business records in case of an emergency? One problem with totally relying on paper copies of vital company documents is the fact that they are susceptible to the whims and moods of Mother Nature.

Estimated insured property losses from United States natural catastrophes in 2021 were $92 billion. A catastrophe is classified as a natural event that causes $25 million or more in insured property losses, 10 deaths; 50 people injured, or 2,000 filed claims or homes and structures damaged. In 2021 there 97 unique events were declared catastrophes with Hurricane Ida being the most devastating. At a time when there are various environmental concerns across the country, it is now more important than ever before to protect your personal and professional paper assets. Regardless if it is tax documents, financial records, business license and permits, client data, scheduling data, patient information, certificates and awards, banking, investments, legal papers, insurance filings, or whatever other key paper possessions you have you must keep them safe in case of natural disaster and going paperless can be a perfect backup plan for when Mother Nature does rear here uglier side. Here are just a few tips on how going paperless to provide a safety net for your business is a must in the modern era of Mother Nature’s current state.

Going Paperless Natural Disaster Protection Tip #1: Utilize Paperless Recordkeeping

Always scan all essential paper documents and save backup electronic copies as well. Also consider keeping duplicate backup copies on an external storage device, like a flash drive or hard drive, and working with a going paperless company to assure safekeeping by a reliable and trustworthy third party location. Storing other sets of these duplicates in a safe place, like a waterproof and fireproof safe at a trusted relative’s home or in a safe deposit box can be a good idea too.

Going Paperless Natural Disaster Protection Tip #2: Store Documents In Multiple Locations

If a disaster strikes your home or business, it will likely affect the surrounding area. Storing passwords and information needed to access your records in a safe place, like a secure password manager or going paperless company. By keeping your digital records management over multiple storage locations you can avoid mishaps and tragedies to your valuable paper belongings.

Going Paperless Natural Disaster Protection Tip #3: Keep An Updated Contingency Plan

How fast you can recover from a disaster depends on how well in advance you plan for one. To keep an updated contingency plan make sure to have access to the latest information about hazards and emergencies in your area. Be sure to study the various courses of action required for specific natural hazards. Learn where to seek shelter and be sure to back up your computer and data systems regularly. Decide how you will speak with employees, customers and the community in case lines of communication go down. Practice and maintain your plan and be sure to contact a going paperless company to help you prepare the best system possible.

Going Paperless Natural Disaster Protection Tip #4: Keep Visual Records Of Your Property

Taking extensive photos and videos of your paper resources is a great idea to keep digital documentation of your valuables. Partnering with a records management company can help facilitate the transition from hard copies of your archives to a safer environment both online and off.

The best time to prepare for an emergency is before an emergency occurs. If you live and work in an area and community that is exposed to the trials and tribulations of Mother Nature you will want to start thinking about your business going paperless sooner than later. Have you ever lost a key paper document to an unexpected natural occurrence or event?