Every small business person already has plenty to think about, but the tragedy at Virginia Tech has renewed important debate about mental health, gun control and community safety.

It is also offers the truly sad yet nonetheless important reminder that chaos and threat can sometimes strike in the places we usually feel least vulnerable, like school, home and work.

Even though we’re all typically preoccupied with issues like our online presence, the new quarter and accounts receivable, there are some business fundamentals that everyone needs to take stock of.

Take a few minutes to consider: are you and your small business prepared for the worst? What have you done to gear up for emergencies? Do you have a disaster plan? Do your employees know how to respond under emergency situations?

Do you?

Every local fire and police department in the nation has community safety liaisons designed to help educate both residents and business owners to be safe in normal and not-so-normal situations. The services are free - our tax dollars at work.

And not only do they help you anticipate crisis situations, they help communicate to your workforce that you care about their health and well-being. Nothing boosts morale and culture like an understanding that we’re all in this together.

It’s never to late to prepare for the worst, and it’s never too early to get started.

Be a smart small businessperson: plan ahead to ensure that your best laid business plans can weather any storm.

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