We can never be too prepared — that’s not an exaggeration either. Reports show that the majority of families are not equipped for emergencies. While at work, accidents due to carelessness or poor policies are on the rise, and you can’t be mission essential both at home and at work.
We can’t stress enough how essential it is to be prepared. Being prepared isn’t just having items around for emergencies, although that’s certainly part of it — preparedness is also a state of mind. Combined, these two improve resilience drastically.
We adore our families and respect our co-workers. It’s no secret that we are social creatures and maintaining the safety of our community is one of our top concerns. So why wouldn’t we want to have plans set in motion that facilitate safety at home and at the workplace. It’s logical. And it’s the best way to ensure that we keep each other as free from harm as possible. CCS will help you make a checklist of essential items and even go into a personalized product list that will serve you and your needs best.
Here are 10 of our must-have emergency items, both at home and at work:
1. Power outage essentials
In the event that the power goes out, having a set of supplies will keep everyone out of the dark. Candles and flashlights are at the top of the list. As are extra batteries, matches and lighters. Depending on the situation, a generator can come in handy.
2. Batteries or solar powered items
Having back-up packs of batteries will guarantee usage. Remember that any item that requires batteries works with slightly different voltages and size. Having an array of batteries is wise. For those who prefer to avoid batteries altogether, solar powered or manually powered items should be kept in stock.
3. Fire extinguisher + carbon-monoxide and smoke detectors
Sure, it seems logical enough to have a smoke and carbon-monoxide detector in our homes and offices, but with a bit of investigation, it’s surprising to learn that many places lack one or more. They don’t just assist in alerting us to danger, but they save lives. Fire extinguishers are handy for indoor fires that happen more often than we realize.
4. Tagged shut-off valves
In any emergency, whether from an accident or natural disaster, knowing how to shut off the water or gas in a home or building can prevent major damage. Clip plastic or metal tags on valves to indicate which ones have the ability to interrupt flow. Be sure that everyone who inhabits or visits the space understands these tags and knows how to turn them off in an emergency.
5. Up to date first-aid kit
Here’s another no-brainer — the standard first-aid kit. Unfortunately, it feels like the first-aid kit is becoming an obsolete concept. Less and less homes are carrying them while in the workplace, updating or refilling first-aid kits goes unnoticed. This is the essential item for minor accidents. If we can’t deal with the small stuff, how do we expect to handle the big stuff?
6. Emergency phone numbers
Posting a list of emergency phone numbers matters. Poison control, fire fighters and physicians should be on the list as well as loved ones, neighbors and even the police department. It’s not just for those who spend time in these spaces, but for newcomers who might not be familiar with the area or safety policies.
7. Water + non-perishable food
The rule of thumb is one gallon of water per person for three days. Water is not just for drinking, but for cleaning, too. In critical situations, water is literally, life. Also, canned food and a manual can opener will be appreciated when there is a shortage of food supplies.
8. Toolkit
Having access to tools comes in handy. In some cases, it won’t just be about repair, but rather about creating a make-shift item from nearby or found materials. Tools like hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches and Swiss army knives provide sustainability, at least until the situation changes.
9. Blankets and tarps
Whether to protect from the cold weather or block from the sun, both blankets and tarps are key to weather management. They also shelter from the elements in the case of extreme snow or rain.
10. Emergency plan evacuation routes + marked emergency exits
Evacuation routes must be planned and rehearsed by all who share the space. The plan itself should be printed, laminated and stored in a visible location that’s easy to remember and access. Clearly marked emergency exits that remain unblocked will facilitate evacuation. Don’t underestimate the power of training and testing the plan and routes several times over the course of a year.
