Prepare your small business for bushfire season

As the summer months approach, the NSW Small Business Commissioner is encouraging small businesses to prepare for bushfire risks. 

“This summer is predicted to be warm, with firefighters having responded to more than 1,600 bush and grass fires across the state since 1 July,” said Small Business Commissioner Chris Lamont. “As we’ve seen on previous occasions, even if your business is not located in a high bushfire risk area it could be impacted by road closures or other supply challenges.”

Bushfires can affect businesses in various ways, including:

• Property damage: Physical damage to buildings and infrastructure can halt operations and lead to costly repairs.
• Operational disruptions: Brownouts, fallen trees on power lines or blocking roads, and loss of communication signals can impact a business’s ability to maintain normal operations.
• Supply chain disruptions: Fires can disrupt transportation routes and impact the availability of essential supplies, affecting production and service delivery.
• Employee safety: Smoke and fire hazards pose direct risks to employees’ health and safety, requiring businesses to have evacuation and safety protocols in place.
• Customer access: Fires can make areas inaccessible, reducing foot traffic and impacting sales, especially for local retailers and service providers.
• Insurance claims: Increased claims during a bushfire season can lead to longer processing times, affecting businesses' ability to recover financially.

Business owners should have an up-to-date business continuity plan, review their insurance policies, establish communication channels with employees and stay informed about fire alerts and weather conditions.

“It’s not just about survival; it’s about resilience and recovery — taking action now can help minimise the impact on your operations and get back to business sooner,” added Lamont.

For help creating a comprehensive business continuity plan unique to your business needs, view the Commission’s free guide here.

Stay up to date on fires in your area using the NSW Rural Fire Service website, the Hazards Near Me app, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.