Preparation Is Key To Safety

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Take time to prepare and stay safe.

September is National Preparedness Month, and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security encourages Hoosier families and businesses to review your safety plans in the event of a disaster. 

Here in central Indiana, the most common occurrences are tornadoes, fire, flooding, and winter storms. Become aware of disasters that could occur in your area and learn what to do to stay safe. 

Disasters happen everywhere, take time to prepare.

Everywhere in the United States is at some risk for a natural disaster, whether it be from flooding, fire, or storms. It is essential that you understand the risk in your area and develop preparedness and mitigation plans, and take action. 

As a business owner or human resource coordinator, taking action will not only increase the safety of employees and customers, but it will help you remain in business after disasters.

Maintaining business continuity is crucial for you, and when you can continue operations after a disaster, you will improve your community's ability to recover as well. 

Employee  Awareness Campaign

Conduct an employee awareness campaign to educate staff on the safest response before, during, and after a disaster. These campaigns can include drills or exercises that can be incorporated into the program and evacuation routes. 

Address shelter-in-place procedures and emergency communications plans. Also, discuss how to evacuate and where to go to stay safe. Your training can be incorporated into established campaigns such as National Preparedness Month and should focus on disaster preparedness and safety. 

Hold a preparedness discussion with your staff. Discuss what you have done to prepare for disasters, review your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Program and your Business Continuity Plan, review your Crisis Communications Plan, and share awareness campaign key messages.  

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Include basic first aid and CPR training and situational awareness in the event of a disaster. Describe evacuation routes in the event you need to leave your building, and designate a safe place for people to go once they're out.

Having monthly or quarterly walk-through drills are essential for group safety. Conduct your evacuation drill, but before you begin, contact your local fire department and emergency manager for additional ideas and to offer them a way to participate.