PodcastsSep 16, 2026
Episode 9: Remembering Cindy EdelsteinTwo special guests join the podcast to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the designer advocate, mentor, and author’s untimely passing.
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Have a Plan for Emergencies
Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere , and Jewelers of America has what you need to be prepared for it all.
Brought To You By Jewelers of America
Today’s business know all too well that disaster can strike anytime and anywhere. That is why Jewelers of America advises members to have emergency and crisis policies in place that will help protect your business, staff, and customers.
Jewelers of America’s Guide to Best Practices includes tips to help businesses prepare for unforeseen events, whether natural (such as floods, wildfires, hurricanes, or earthquakes), health-related (wide-spread illnesses), human-caused (accidents or acts of violence) or technology related (power or equipment failure).
While nobody has a crystal ball to predict every disaster ahead of time, there are effective steps your business can take to reduce risks.
Consider Your Risks
Look at where you are located and the type of weather events that are most common. For instance, if you are in a region that is more coastal or prone to flooding, you will want to have flood insurance. Questions you should consider when assessing risk include:
- Can I operate my business if I am unable to physically access it?
- Have you identified/prioritized what operations are most essential to recovery in the event of a disaster?
- Have you assigned an emergency coordinator or lead among your management/staff to do things like handle evacuations or emergency communications?
Communications are Key
A cornerstone of emergency preparedness is having a robust internal and external communications plan in place. This can include protocols and tools for contacting your employees, community, and business partners on vital details during an emergency. Be prepared to be able to communicate with all stakeholders from outside of the store/office.
- Texting employees directly with important updates
- Updating your community through email, your website, and social media channels on things like store hours, appointment options
- Share health and safety measures your business has in place both online and in store
Take Advantage of Local and Government Resources
Utilize resources in your community, such as your local police and fire departments. Visit Ready.gov for detailed information and ideas on developing readiness plans for both business and personal use. Also look to your associations, like Jewelers of America, which provide resources and aid in times of need.
While you cannot know everything that can happen ahead of time, having a plan in place can be the difference between a chaotic and slow response; versus an orderly and safe one.
Join Jewelers of America today to access the member-exclusive industry guidance, "Guide to Best Practices" — which covers everything from current risks, diamonds, colored gemstones, business regulations, policy statements and more.
While you cannot know everything that can happen ahead of time, having a plan in place can be the difference between a chaotic and slow response; versus an orderly and safe one.
Join Jewelers of America today to access the member-exclusive industry guidance, "Guide to Best Practices" — which covers everything from current risks, diamonds, colored gemstones, business regulations, policy statements and more.
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