E. coli cases dropping in North Bay, Ont.

This is why every organization needs a Crisis Communications Plan. Over time, an investigation will determine the root cause(s) of this outbreak. But today, Harvey's has its logo on television and is mentioned over and over again in articles like this one.

So, if you are the owner of a local restaurant, hotel or grocery store, and despite your best intentions something like this happens, what do you do? Who will speak to the media? What will say when the throng of reporters arrives on your doorstep (and they will show up)? Reacting the wrong way or failing to respond can permanently damage your reputation.

A Crisis Communications Plan is developed by a communications professional with these situations in mind. What does your plan look like?