Ensure that your backup systems are working properly, and take at least 1 recent copy of your servers offsite. If you need to rebuild from scratch, this will save you DAYS of work, even if they are a few days old. Ideally, make a backup before you shut down for the last day before the storm hits, and take it with you.

Ensure that you have access to the CD-ROMs and other media required to install your core data processing apps from scratch. These, plus your backups should help to get your core systems operational in the event of a total loss.

Take network maps, device layouts, and other basic system documents offsite. This will help networking personnel get "up to speed" on a network, particularly if they are unfamiliar with it.

Place off-site backups, system documents, and other media in a Ziploc bag, and secure in a physically secure location. A small safe or other strong box, plus a Ziploc should provide structural protection as well as protection against water damage.

Prepare a list of emergency contact numbers. This should include your data processing vendors, IT support personnel, credit union with reciprocal processing agreements, etc. Include multiple numbers wherever possible (i.e. cellular, land lines, home numbers, etc.) to increase the likelihood of getting through.

Consider the likelihood of flooding in your area. Storm surge can approach 10-15 feet which could mean flooding significantly inland, particularly if you are near ocean connected waterways. Raising all computers and networking equipment above ground level may help reduce the risk of ruining the workstations. Placing equipment on chairs or desks may be a good idea.

Turn off everything you can to avoid water damage in the event of flooding or loss of structural integrity. Electronics that are off and/or unplugged can probably survive getting wet, so long as they are completely dry before being turned back on, and don't have an opportunity corrode (from sitting in standing water).

Expect power surges if power lines are knocked down. Thus, unplugging equipment may be prudent. Also, when power comes back on, surges may initially occur.

Place plastic over equipment to protect it if structural damage occurs. Simple garbage bags and some packing tape can help prevent water damage if the roof rips off, windows blow in, or other structural damage occurs. Of course, be sure that the equipment is off and unplugged before covering with plastic, to avoid overheating.

Place all paper documents within file cabinets, desk drawers, etc. In the event of a roof being torn off, this may help prevent water damage.

Think about reciprocal processing opportunities. Credit unions typically use a small number of data processing vendors. Thus, you can probably find other CUs in the state at vendor meetings and other events. Getting to know them may be useful in the event that a storm destroys your location. It may be possible to reconfigure one or more workstations, allowing your CU to open up at their location.

If the worst should happen, let us know ASAP. We can probably leverage our resources to get replacement equipment quickly, and use your backups to get you operational as quickly as possible. We will do everything we can to get you up and running, ASAP.

Get the word out regarding your situation.

	The Florida CU League was actively gathering information regarding the status of CUs across the state when Charley, to find ways to help each other. Let them know if you need help. You may find that another CU can help.
	If you sustain significant damage, let your members know. We can post a message on your website if we host it for you. Also, the local phone company may be able to setup messaging services to provide information to members who call.
	Your phone company may be able to forward calls to a cell phone or other location. Ask about this capability ahead of time so you know what to do and who to call if it does happen.

Stay safe. Above all, the above ideas will help you rebuild should the worst happen. However, it is critical that you do your best to keep yourself safe.

Once you reopen, be sure that you have adequate security. Police forces may be in short supply due to other problems, and people may be in dire need of cash. Consider coordinating off-duty security ahead of time.

Consider ways you can help your members recover. If you have been impacted, they probably have been as well. Your out-of-town credit union friends may help "import" needed items for you and your members.

If you were not impacted, consider getting up a group to help those that are. One cannot begin to understand the value of a simple ice-cold drink to someone who has been cleaning up for days without any electricity or air conditioning.