Create an Office Disaster Supply Kit
This Professional Organizer in NYC is a strong supporter of being prepared, and that includes being prepared for a disaster. Disaster Preparedness Month is a great time to review your office organizing plans and strategies for a disaster and to make sure that your disaster supply kit is ready to go. What types of items should you have in your supply kit? Here are some ideas to get you started.
- Water and water purification tablets
- Food (non-perishable products)
- Battery powered radio and a NOAA Weather Radio for updates
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries for the above items
- First aid kit
- Multi-purpose tools
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust masks for you and staff (to filter contaminated air)
- Moist wipes
These are just the basics. Check out sites like Ready.gov and The Red Cross for more specific items that will fit your office’s unique needs.
Where should you store your office kit?
Store the items in clearly labeled containers so that they can be quickly accessed if needed. Make sure that the storage location is somewhere easily reached, and that your staff knows where it is so the designated staff person can grab it in case of an emergency.
Other items to consider: include maps to your city. With our reliance on technology, many of us quickly turn to Google Maps or Mapquest to figure out how to get to a specific location. If those devices aren’t working, having a map will be helpful. Also, make sure you have a list of phone numbers and emergency contact information for your staff. You’ll want to make sure everyone is okay, and if there are issues, you can contact the appropriate people. Include on that list local emergency numbers such as police, fire, and EMS. Also, have a couple universal cell phone chargers on hand. If you still have electricity, it will be helpful to keep your cells charged.
Remember to review your kit in June and December – at the same time review your office safety plan with the team. Make sure nothing is missing, check the batteries, food, and first aid items for any expiration or leaking. Review your lists of contact information to make sure they are still accurate.
As always, we hope to never have to use this supply kit, but as always when it comes to office organizing, it’s best to be prepared. If you need more hands on help with disaster preparedness for your office or office organizing strategies, reach out to this Professional Organizer in NYC.