Chandler, crisis communication expert, suggests creating a crisis plan that addresses each of the 6 stages of a crisis: Warning, Risk Assessment, Response, Management, Resolution and Recovery.

FORBES: 5 Lessons From Hurricane Sandy For Emergency Preparedness

The letter also alleges the business failed to display any warning signs or carry out a risk assessment.

BBC: Norfolk police officer sues garage after trip on 999 call

Moody's assessment was the harshest of the three ratings firms, putting Countrywide at a notch above junk and warning things could deteriorate further.

FORBES: Magazine Article