U.S. Chamber: 10 Ways Communities, Businesses, and Families Can Improve Resilience

Weather-related catastrophes are increasing in frequency and severity, and billion-dollar disasters are now the norm. In 2022 alone, the cost of natural disasters exceeded $360 billion across the globe, including more than 40 weather events causing over $1 billion in damage each.

A new economic study by Allstate, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation found that every $1 spent on climate resilience and preparedness saves communities $13 in economic impact, damages, and cleanup costs.

The partnership builds on Allstate’s work to strengthen communities to empower people so they can thrive and the U.S. Chamber and U.S. Chamber Foundation’s disaster response and resiliency solutions, which include training and resources to help businesses and communities prepare for and recover from disasters.

Here are a few recommended actions for reducing risk.

For communities:

1.      Reduce underlying risk: Actions could include poverty alleviation, asset redistribution plans, and providing basic services such as education and health care.

2.      Create early warning systems: Make sure a system is in place to alert community members of impending disasters.

3.      Support mitigation planning: Adopt zoning, land-use practices, and building codes to prevent or reduce damage from hazards.

For businesses:

4.      Make building improvements: These include structural improvements, adjustments based on professional hazard audits, and accessibility updates.

5.      Plan for the worst-case scenario: Train employees in emergency response and have a business-disaster plan in place.

6.      Collaborate with community governments: Support the development and strengthening of national and local laws, regulations, policies, and programs.

7.      Seek out resources and information: Understand what resources are available before a disaster happens, like the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s Readiness for Resiliency program or federal disaster grants.

For families and households:

8.      Be aware and prepare: Understand the types of disasters that could occur in your area and learn how to stay safe.

9.      Make a plan: Create a family disaster plan that includes meeting places in case family members are separated.

10.      Consider home improvements that increase resiliency: This could include elevating electrical appliances, using flood-resistant materials, and roof maintenance/upgrades.