Preparedness

Are you prepared?

This question brings different responses to mind for every person. Preparedness

depends on the task you’re involved with, or about to pursue, or the environment you’re in at the time of the question. But all preparedness includes a plan and supplies to prevent an unwanted circumstance, ideal response to an event, or the ability to help rescue or recover from a situation.

Most people have a preparedness train of thought each day even before leaving to go to work. What’s the weather like? How should I dress? Do I need to stop for gas? Should I pack a lunch, or will I buy something to eat?

These are all things that may run through your mind. Giving thought beforehand to what you would do (a plan) or what you need (supplies) in certain situations before they occur is key to being prepared. This allows you the extra time to make plans and gather supplies ahead of the situation.

Are you prepared for each day at work?

1. The first priority in preparation is prevention of an unwanted situation. Understand the hazards that are involved with your job and know how to minimize your risk around these hazards. o Do you perform job task without taking unnecessary risk?

• Is your vehicle & equipment in good condition & routinely maintenance?
• Is your work environment orderly?
• Do you have the needed tools and PPE to perform your job safely?

2. Prepare to respond ideally should an unwanted situation occur.

• Do you know exactly what to do & where to go specifically in the event of a fire, tornado, or other likely emergency event?
• Do you know who (supervisor, 1st responders) and how (radio frequencies, cell phone numbers) to call for help?
• If there are unique hazards in your area, are first responders already informed so they can be prepared too?
• Do you know where emergency equipment & supplies are located in your work area?

3. Be able to rescue or recover from an unwanted situation.

• Do you have needed skills & training to respond appropriately to possible situations?
• Can you relay your location to emergency responders?
• If working alone, or even groups in remote locations, do others know your locations? Is there a plan about expected return or check-in times?
• Can you quickly access rescue & recovery supplies? (These may also be needed in areas such as vehicle, backpack, UTV)

If you answered NO to any of the questions above, then you should work towards becoming more prepared so you can honestly answer YES. Don’t be shy, please ask your supervisor and safety staff for help in any areas that you have questions about.