Professional Organizer in NYC Office Preparedness Tips
Unfortunately, this Professional Organizer in NYC cannot predict the future. Since we have no way of knowing when disaster may strike, we need to have a plan in place which includes a disaster preparedness plan for the office. When you are in the middle of a disaster, whether it’s a hurricane, a fire, or some kind of other emergency, you don’t have time to think about what steps you need to take or what to remember. That’s why having a plan in place is so important – the plan will help you make those decisions and know what you need to do next.
First, create a written office disaster preparedness plan. Since a disaster can strike at any time, it’s a good idea to create a plan now while you have a clear head and can think through the implications. Trying to keep yourself and your staff safe while an emergency is happening can be tough, so a prepared plan will help you to remain in control. Your plan needs to include methods for leaving the office (such as fire escape routes) as well as a plan for where you should meet or where in the building to take cover. Share this plan with the entire office so that everyone is on the same page well before anything occurs. Another important piece is creating a disaster preparedness kit in case you are stuck in your office for a longer period of time. Items to keep on hand include water, a first aid kit, flashlights, and a radio so you can tune in to emergency updates (make sure it’s battery operated!).
Next, because a disaster could take place while you are at work and away from your loved ones, you need to create a plan with your family, too. It will be frightening to be stuck sheltering in place inside your office and wondering how your loved ones are doing. So create a family plan so that each person knows what to do while you are at work, allowing you to feel a bit calmer as you wait. Include two meeting places with your loved ones because, as we’ve learned in NYC, one part of town may be evacuated or blocked off. Include that second option as a backup. Encourage your employees and office staff to do the same thing with their loved ones. It will help you all to better weather the situation knowing that your families are following an agreed upon plan.
Finally, remind yourself of the reasons why having a plan is so important. It’s so easy to push these types of tasks aside. It can be uncomfortable to think about a disaster happening, and it’s easier to ignore it. However, this Professional Organizer in NYC encourages you to take the time, step out of your comfort zone, and get prepared. Facing a disaster can be overwhelming and frightening, but when you are organized and have a plan in place, you will know what to do and will be able to make better decisions.
Need more hands on help and office organizing strategies to create a disaster preparedness strategy for your office? Reach out to this Professional Organizer in NYC today!