After the storm: getting back online

Before you switch anything on

• The building is safe to enter, and power is stable (not flickering or on a shaky generator)
• Look for water on the floor, ceiling stains and wet equipment
• Never power on equipment that got wet. Leave it unplugged and call IT
• Take photos of any damage before you move anything, for insurance

Power up in this order

1. 1

   Battery backups

   Let them charge for a few minutes first.

2. 2

   Internet modem

   Wait until its lights settle, which can take 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Firewall, then network switches and Wi-Fi

   Wait a few minutes after each.

4. 4

   Servers and storage

   Call IT first if you have a server, so someone watches it come up.

5. 5

   Computers, printers and phones

   Last, once everything above is working.

Once you're running

• Everyone can reach email and files
• Undo phone forwarding, the out-of-office and the website notice
• Check that the first backup after reopening runs
• Watch for storm scams: fake aid, insurance and contractor emails