(no subject)
I started by updating my workplace preparedness kit, using the Red Cross workplace preparedness list as my guide.
I'm told my employer has an emergency plan to meet some basic needs, such as water and cots, should we ever not be able to leave the building. Check what emergency preparedness plan your employer has. If there isn't one, can you help implement one?
I also share a "family-sized" pre-made preparedness kit with 3 of my coworkers. This covers needs such as flashlights, first aid kit, mylar blanket, battery-powered radio, dust masks, whistles and glow sticks (for emergency parties!). I double-checked to ensure nothing needs to be replaced due to pilfering or expiration.
Any kit needs to be personalized to meet your specific needs. Many of these supplies also come in handy day-to-day, so I took the time this week to restock. Here's how I personalize my kit:
* Change of clothes - I have something appropriate for cold and warm weather. These are things that I won't miss at home (i.e. sweat pants, skirt I seldom wear, t-shirt, etc). This supply has proven valuable in daily emergencies such as getting caught in the rain.
* Comfortable pair of shoes - I keep a pair of old sneakers at work. If I ever needed to walk home (or if I injured myself), I have the footwear I need.
* Toiletries and personal supplies - toothbrush, floss, washrag, soap. You never know when you'll need to freshen up, particularly if you're locked in the building. I love my multi-purpose Dr. Bronner's soap - great for dishes or as shampoo.
* Vitamins/meds - I keep a variety of pain meds (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) and a small supply of vitamins. A little pill travel container works great for this. Seasonally, I also keep some cold-remedy meds (zinc products), allergy meds and cough drops.
* Non-perishable foods (at least 1 day supply or 3 meals) - I keep a variety of stuff that may or may not need water. High protein foods are great. I have soups, peanut butter, instant oatmeal, crackers, trail mix (meat versions might include beef jerky or tuna). These also serve as snacks and lunch alternatives, so I have to be careful to keep re-stocked.
Other ideas - can opener (!), plate/utensils, extra umbrella, emergency money, maps. I also kept a bottle of wine for a long time. I might need to restock that. What else would you add?
As the evacuation coordinator for my department, I must also stress the importance of knowing how to evacuate and what you should bring with you. Practice grabbing your keys, identification, money for public transit, mobile phone, or coat as appropriate. You'll be grateful for the habit during the stress of a real evacuation.
I'm told my employer has an emergency plan to meet some basic needs, such as water and cots, should we ever not be able to leave the building. Check what emergency preparedness plan your employer has. If there isn't one, can you help implement one?
I also share a "family-sized" pre-made preparedness kit with 3 of my coworkers. This covers needs such as flashlights, first aid kit, mylar blanket, battery-powered radio, dust masks, whistles and glow sticks (for emergency parties!). I double-checked to ensure nothing needs to be replaced due to pilfering or expiration.
Any kit needs to be personalized to meet your specific needs. Many of these supplies also come in handy day-to-day, so I took the time this week to restock. Here's how I personalize my kit:
* Change of clothes - I have something appropriate for cold and warm weather. These are things that I won't miss at home (i.e. sweat pants, skirt I seldom wear, t-shirt, etc). This supply has proven valuable in daily emergencies such as getting caught in the rain.
* Comfortable pair of shoes - I keep a pair of old sneakers at work. If I ever needed to walk home (or if I injured myself), I have the footwear I need.
* Toiletries and personal supplies - toothbrush, floss, washrag, soap. You never know when you'll need to freshen up, particularly if you're locked in the building. I love my multi-purpose Dr. Bronner's soap - great for dishes or as shampoo.
* Vitamins/meds - I keep a variety of pain meds (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) and a small supply of vitamins. A little pill travel container works great for this. Seasonally, I also keep some cold-remedy meds (zinc products), allergy meds and cough drops.
* Non-perishable foods (at least 1 day supply or 3 meals) - I keep a variety of stuff that may or may not need water. High protein foods are great. I have soups, peanut butter, instant oatmeal, crackers, trail mix (meat versions might include beef jerky or tuna). These also serve as snacks and lunch alternatives, so I have to be careful to keep re-stocked.
Other ideas - can opener (!), plate/utensils, extra umbrella, emergency money, maps. I also kept a bottle of wine for a long time. I might need to restock that. What else would you add?
As the evacuation coordinator for my department, I must also stress the importance of knowing how to evacuate and what you should bring with you. Practice grabbing your keys, identification, money for public transit, mobile phone, or coat as appropriate. You'll be grateful for the habit during the stress of a real evacuation.