Keeping a cool head: How we kept the business running despite the heat and power cuts
The morning of 11th July began with an exciting adventure that had become all too familiar in Houston at the time: repairing our air conditioning system. The previous storm had caused the unit in our facility to break down. Thankfully, I was able to quickly resolve the issue with the help of a dedicated air conditioning company. While the technicians were at work, it became clear that additional efforts might be needed to optimise ventilation across the entire facility. For now, only the office system was back up and running, but we also managed to get the one in our warehouse functioning – a double success!
At that time, many people in Houston were grappling with similar issues. The energy grid was under immense strain, and hundreds of thousands of households were without air conditioning and electricity. This created a strong sense of community and mutual support. Our friends at Houston Cares Animal Rescue were a shining example. They transported dogs and cats from homes without air conditioning to places where power and cooling systems were back online. Others took turns driving the animals in air-conditioned cars. Many of these volunteers had five or more pets of their own and didn’t want to leave them behind. To support this challenging situation, a cooling centre was set up by North America for the organisation, welcoming both humans and animals to cool down.
While the city worked tirelessly to clear debris, significant attention was also given to ensuring the safety of trees. Each one was carefully inspected to confirm its stability. At the same time, electricity lines were being repaired, which led to additional power outages for some. Crews pumped water from underground garages, and in our neighbourhood, a sinkhole had formed that urgently needed assessment to prevent further damage to the road.
As of this morning, our entire team was fully operational again. Despite all the challenges, we managed to hold a virtual meeting – even without internet access in our office. Thanks to unlimited data on my company phone, I was able to set up a hotspot. These kinds of improvised solutions are crucial for maintaining operations during crises.
Tips for Businesses Planning to Set Up in the US
- Unlimited Data Plans:
Ensure your company phones have unlimited data plans. This allows you to create hotspots for laptops or hold virtual meetings in emergencies. Providers like T-Mobile offer excellent plans with unlimited data, and some even include free Wi-Fi on international flights. - Develop Contingency Plans:
Always have a Plan B. Know alternative work locations or backup options in case your office is inaccessible. Coffee shops, business partner offices, co-working spaces, and even residential complexes often have conference rooms with internet access. - Leverage Local Networks:
Build relationships with local service providers and companies that can offer fast, reliable assistance during crises. - Secure Communication:
Ensure all employees have access to dependable communication tools to stay connected during emergencies. - Embrace Technology:
Invest in technologies that support flexible working. Cloud services and mobile workstations can help keep operations running during power outages or natural disasters.
I am incredibly proud of how we navigated these challenging circumstances. Our team stayed united, found creative solutions, and remained operational. This experience has once again demonstrated our resilience and what we can achieve together.
Here’s to more successful days – and hopefully cooler ones!
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