Workplace Preparedness

As National Preparedness Month comes to an end, let’s focus on workplace safety preparedness. You should have an escape plan, locate emergency tools, know where the safe area is located, and know how to handle urgent medical emergencies.

An escape plan prepares you to calmly exit the building in case of a fire or other emergency that threatens the safety of your building. Practice evacuating by walking the exit route and knowing where you are supposed to go once outside of the building.

Locate the closest emergency tools to your work area. Know where the fire alarm, fire extinguisher, first aid kit and automated external defibrillator (AED) are located.

Locate the designated safe area in case of a natural disaster, such as a tornado. Be familiar with lockdown procedures to secure your work environment from other threats.

You should know how to handle urgent medical emergencies or know who in your workplace is trained. The American Red Cross offers a variety of training courses to prepare you. Contact your Dallas Area Chapter coordinator Andria Butler at 214-678-4320 to arrange on-site training for your company.