Office Survival: Do You Have What It Takes?
I would first like to apologize to the many readers who will assume this article is about how to eliminate your enemies and engage in a war of paper clips and rubber bands. While I acknowledge that topic is probably more interesting than what I have to say, I am more concerned with your safety in an emergency. And since you are already reading, please take a minute to finish what you started!
Did you know the average American adult spends over 30% of his or her time at work? My first thought was, “I wish I could only work 6 hours a day!” But seriously, whether you are a full-time hero or a part-time student, emergencies have a good chance of striking while you are away from your primary emergency supply — assuming you have a primary emergency supply.
An emergency kit is not just about giant monsters wreaking havoc through the city or floods reaching your 4th story window, they are about everyday incidents ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to a lightning storm that knocks out the power for 45 minutes. Make sure you don’t end up being the only one without a poncho in that torrential downpour or finding your way through the pitch dark halls of your building without a flashlight by taking the following steps toward emergency preparedness:
Store emergency contact information in your workspace. If something happens to you at work, your co-workers will need to know who to call. Make sure your emergency contact information is clearly written and easy to find. Keep this list in your phone as well. Many companies have an ICE (in case of emergency) section built into their phones. If your phone doesn’t have this function, create your own ICE contact.
Keep a duffel bag or backpack full of emergency supplies in your office. Don’t get caught off guard in a less-than-stellar situation. Make sure your backpack or duffel bag has plenty of water, a flashlight with extra batteries, a pocket knife, a first aid kit, and a radio. These items will keep you safer and provide you with a sense of security.
Keep an auto emergency kit. This will not only ensure your safety on the road, it will also provide a backup to your home or office emergency supplies.
Get acquainted with your company’s first aid kit and emergency supply area. Every company should have a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher. Make sure you know where these items are located and how to use them.
Research your company’s evacuation plan. Although most businesses do not hold emergency drills, every company should have an evacuation plan. Acquaint yourself with the details of this plan and discuss emergency preparedness with your supervisor and co-workers.
