There’s another reality being overlooked as we endure this pandemic: disasters and dynamic disruptions don’t wait in line for their turn. Since the United States declared the coronavirus pandemic a national emergency on March 13, 2020, a number of non-related parallel disasters have occurred:

  • March 18, 2020: Magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck Salt Lake City, Utah.
  • April 10-12, 2020: Devastating tornadoes killed dozens across the Southern U.S.
  • April 11, 2020: Cyber-attack targeting San Francisco International Airport
  • April 13, 2020: Widespread power outage impacts 100,000+ homes in Massachusetts

Though it is hard not to be consumed with all things COVID-19, organizations have no choice but to press forward thinking about all-risk, all-hazard preparedness and response planning. COVID-19 is not only unique in its overall impact but also the multi-level outpouring of governmental and non-governmental support. Most significant business disruptions occur with little fanfare and even less immediate aid even though the impact can be just as devastating to a smaller community of stakeholders.

If your organization is fortunate enough to return to full operation after the nation’s period of social distancing concludes, will you rest on your laurels or remember that wildland fire, hurricane, and tornado seasons are just around the corner? Is there a chance employees who were laid off and not offered an opportunity to return, new hires who are unaccustomed to your organization’s norms, or returning customers who are still struggling with personal loss and grief could strike a fatal blow to an organization that survived the economic shutdown? Are you prepared to monitor and provide mental health assistance to employees who will still be struggling with the aftermath of their months-long lived reality? 

There is far more to resuming or improving the health of your organization in a post-pandemic America. Part of your organizational reboot should include looking at your overall readiness to respond to… Do you even know your risks and regional hazards?

On Scene looks forward to working with you as we collectively crossover into an uncharted path of world history.