1. Kansas State University
  2. »Division of Communications and Marketing
  3. »K-State Today
  4. »Workplace preparedness

K-State Today

June 18, 2013

Workplace preparedness

Submitted by Lisa Linck

When you’re headed into the office for another day behind your desk, emergency preparedness is probably the last thing on your mind. Unfortunately, disasters can strike at any time, and you always need to be ready. View K-State’s emergency management plan here.

Other tips for emergency preparedness at work to make sure you're ready include:

Contact Lafene's health promotion department for information on CPR training and other Red Cross training courses. Complete the desired course online then go to Lafene for skills practice and testing. You can also contact the local Red Cross chapter for a wealth of options for different programs and training courses like the Red Cross ready rating program, which is free to businesses, schools and organizations.

Your other disaster supply kit. Everyone knows you should have one at home, but if you don’t have one for work, get one. It needs to be kept in a single container, and small enough that you can just grab it and go in case you need to evacuate the building. The kit should include three days worth of essential food, water, and emergency supplies like Band-Aids, pain relievers, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a blanket. It’s also not a bad idea to keep a supply kit in the car as well, which should also include flares, jumper cables, and any weather-related supplies you might need for the car.

The evacuation plan is your friend. See K-State’s emergency guide for evacuation procedures. Read it, learn it, know it. Take special note of the exit routes for your building and where fire extinguishers, first aid kits and stairways are located along the path.

Carry an emergency card at all times. This should include your name and list of important contact numbers in case of emergency. Let’s face it, with cell phones many of us don’t know more than a few phone numbers anymore, and we don’t know if cells will work in an emergency, so a written list has taken on even more importance.

Above all, be practical. Women who wear high-heeled shoes to work should keep a pair of comfortable flat shoes at their desk. Don’t let your water rations run low and expect that you’ll just be able to fill up at sinks and water fountains. Don’t prepare anything that’s even close to being perishable. And absolutely be mindful of the season and create your emergency kits and plans accordingly.

Additional resources: