When we experienced the earthquake on July 29, 2008, I would say it scared me. I was at the grocery store buying lunch that day, away from home and work. If I were at work, I would have been more at ease, but at the Whole Foods store when the earthquake began to shake the ground, the lights began to swing and I can hear glass tingling and glass hitting the floor making a shattering noise.
At that moment, I was at the register ready to pay and when we realized it was an earthquake, the cashiers ran outside and left me, Leticia and all other customers standing at the register. We just stood there, not knowing what to do. At work, at least I know the plan and in case of evacuation, I’m familiar with the drill. That is because we practice emergency response processes in case of a major emergencies and we are provided with an emergency kit/bag upon our start date.
Having stood there at Whole Foods not knowing where the safest place was, I realized that not every employer provides training to its employees on emergency response. How can employees manage customers in the store in case of an emergency? Are they familiar with the emergency plan or do they know who the emergency manager of their store is to get instructions?
Therefore, I thought to share this information since September is National Preparedness Month!!!
Resources
The City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services Emergency Planning guides (Click here)
Business & Industry Guide (Click here)
The American Red Cross provides emergency kits (Click here)
Emergencies can strike at any time. Be prepared with an Emergency Preparedness Kit, Adult 1- or 3-day. These backpack-style kits contain either one or three days of supplies for an adult, including water, food, radio, a flashlight, batteries and more.
Personal Workplace
Disaster Supplies Kit
For the workplace, where you might be confined for several hours, or perhaps overnight, the following supplies are recommended. More information is available by clicking here.
Flashlight with extra batteries
Use the flashlight to find your way if the power is out. Do not use candles or any other open flame for emergency lighting.
Battery-powered radio
News about the emergency may change rapidly as events unfold. You also will be concerned about family and friends in the area. Radio reports will give information about the areas most affected.
Food
Enough non-perishable food to sustain you for at least one day (three meals), is suggested. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. The following items are suggested:
• Ready-to-eat canned meals, meats, fruits, and vegetables.
• Canned juices.
• High-energy foods (granola bars, energy bars, etc.).
Water
Keep at least one gallon of water available, or more if you are on medications that require water or that increase thirst. Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles.
Medications
Include usual non-prescription medications that you take, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, etc.
If you use prescription medications, keep at least three-day’s supply of these medications at your workplace. Consult with your physician or pharmacist how these medications should be stored, and your employer about storage concerns.
First Aid Supplies
If your employer does not provide first aid supplies, have the following essentials:
(20) adhesive bandages, various sizes.
(1) 5” x 9” sterile dressing.
(1) conforming roller gauze bandage.
(2) triangular bandages.
(2) 3 x 3 sterile gauze pads.
(2) 4 x 4 sterile gauze pads.
(1) roll 3” cohesive bandage.
(2) germicidal hand wipes or waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
(6) antiseptic wipes.
(2) pair large medical grade non-latex gloves
Adhesive tape, 2” width.
Anti-bacterial ointment.
Cold pack.
Scissors (small, personal).
Tweezers.
CPR breathing barrier, such as a face shield
Tools and Supplies
• Emergency “space” blanket (mylar).
• Paper plates and cups, plastic utensils
• Non-electric can opener.
• Personal hygiene items, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, brush, soap, contact lens supplies, and feminine supplies.
• Plastic garbage bags, ties (for personal sanitation uses) .
• Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear, including a long sleeved shirt and long pants, as well as closed-toed shoes or boots.
• If you wear glasses, keep an extra pair with your workplace disaster supplies.
General Information
• Your kit should be adjusted based on your own personal needs.
• Do not include candles, weapons, toxic chemicals, or controlled drugs unless prescribed by a physician.