National Safety Council Declares June 16 – 22 Emergency Preparedness Week
Each year, the National Safety Council (NSC) sponsors National Safety Month in June to educate people about behavior that can prevent injuries and death. The NSC has declared this week (June 16 – 22) Emergency Preparedness Week and is encouraging families and workplaces to think about how they would handle an emergency.
Whether workplace or home, every group should have a plan in case of emergency that they review and practice at least twice a year. Carefully consider the abilities of the coworkers, family and friends who will be working together to skillfully navigate the tricky waters that can arise when the unexpected happens. Give everyone specific responsibilities and have them rehearse carrying out their assigned duties so that when emergency strikes, everyone knows exactly what they’re supposed to do. Create an emergency kit (or several kits) that is easily accessible with items such as the following:
- One gallon of water per person, per day for at least three days
- Non-perishable food for three days, along with a can opener
- Battery powered radio
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Tool kit
- Sanitation materials such as moist towelettes, antibacterial gel and garbage bags
If you’d like to know more, you can find National Safety Month resources like posters, tip sheets, trivia games and crossword puzzles on the National Safety Council site for free download.
In addition, OSHA encourages that workplaces have plans in place specific to their industry and working environment. They provide resources on their website to assist in planning for emergencies that require evacuations, including an Emergency Evacuation Plans and Procedures eTool.