Go figure! During February, there were a series of natural events and disasters. Earthquake hits Chile. Tsunami warnings were sounded along the Pacific seaboard and in Hawaii. Blizzards paralyzed the east coast. Throughout history, I’m sure multiple instances have happened before. But, these instances warrant an opportunity for leaders to make sure they are prepared, right?
You would think we witnessed the wild world of natural disasters rather than the wide world of sports at the Olympic coverage. Fortunately, Chile was apparently a country prepared with emergency teams ready to step into action given high seismic activity in the region. Likewise, sand trucks lined freeways in New England ready to treat roads hampered by severe weather conditions.
These circumstances beg the question for leaders to regularly promote proactive planning and emergency procedures. It’s not a matter of just waiting for an emergency situation to strike but rather for each of us to serve as leaders in our homes, neighborhoods, and municipalities. What can we do to better document procedures, reinforce emergency drills, and properly post an emergency plan? It’s not time for hysteria about if, when, and where the next natural disaster will happen. On the contrary, it’s time to follow tips to better position ourselves in case of any natural disaster.
Emergency Preparation and Preventative Strategies Checklist
- List primary and emergency contact information for your organization’s leaders (i.e., home and cell phone numbers, address, electronic mail, etc.)
- Review accurate safety, security, and emergency plans
- Post and distribute emergency procedures and contingency plans, if you or other leaders are incapacitated
- Develop and update regularly emergency awareness programs
- Complete in-service or training classes about how to handle a crisis
- Designate organizational spokesperson to discuss with media, constituents, and other interested stakeholders
- Review organizational protocols to allow for emergency meetings
- Compile a list of emergency service telephone contact information
