Every business faces risk—but not all risks are equal. In Northern Alberta, small businesses must contend with a mix of natural, technological, and human-caused threats.

Understanding which hazards are most likely—and most damaging—is the first step toward building true resiliency.

What Could Disrupt Your Business?

Rural businesses often operate with lean teams and limited backup systems. The risks are real and increasing.

🔥 Natural Hazards

  • Wildfires, flooding, and extreme weather events
  • Limited access to emergency infrastructure

⚙️Infrastructure & Operational Disruptions

  • Power outages and equipment failure
  • Supply chain breakdowns impacting inventory or delivery

🛡 Cybersecurity Threats

  • Ransomware, phishing attacks, and data loss
  • Reliance on outdated systems and single devices

👥 Human-Caused Risks

  • Theft, vandalism, or workplace absence
  • Key-person dependency with no coverage plan

How to Identify Your Top Threats

Every risk has two key dimensions: likelihood and impact. Use this simple four-step approach:

  1. List potential threats specific to your business and location
  2. Rate each one based on how likely it is and how much disruption it would cause
  3. Consult your team—employees often spot vulnerabilities owners miss
  4. Review your internal systems for single points of failure or outdated tools

TIP: Engaging staff and emergency contacts strengthens both accuracy and accountability.

Turn Insights Into Action

Risk identification reveals blind spots, not just worst-case scenarios. When mapped correctly, these insights lead to better preparedness, smarter investments, and faster recovery.

You can’t fix what you don’t see. Risk assessments turn uncertainty into action.

Use the Ready Rating™ Program to Get Started

The Red Cross Ready Rating™ Program offers an accessible, step-by-step approach to risk awareness and emergency planning.

✔ Self-guided risk evaluation
✔ Custom checklists and improvement plans
✔ Progress tracking based on expert guidance

Start with Ready Rating™ Today →

A clearer picture of risk is the first step toward long-term resiliency.