Christmas tree fires, electrical socket overloads, cooking disasters, and other such emergencies are incredibly rare this time of year, but the overall statistics provide very little comfort to families touched by these mishaps. As preparations for holiday parties enter their final phases, take a few moments to be ready for the unexpected. Make sure your prepping is complete for any urgent situation.
Following these tips should chase some of the few remaining shadows from your mind, giving you the extra peace of mind you need to truly enjoy the time with family and friends.
Keep a First Aid Kit
Any time of year, no home or business should be without a good emergency kit. There is no reason to settle for a bulky and poorly-organized kit that has little more than a few Band-Aids and some rubbing alcohol. The best sets are portable, well-organized, and well-stocked with several dozen items. Smaller kits are great for home or office use where help is close at hand; for hiking trips and other excursions, a slightly larger kit may be a good idea. Keep some other emergency supplies, like a flashlight, fire extinguisher, and some of the other things on this list, close to the first aid kit.
Learn Some Skills
Almost anyone can affix a Band-Aid or strike a match, but some of the other items in a preparedness kit require a little training. Watch a quick YouTube video on proper fire extinguisher usage and familiarize yourself with the one in your home, consider learning or refreshing basic CPR skills, and locate utility shut-off valves. At the office, appoint yourself as the emergency response person, because more than likely, no one else will accept that mantle.
Rehearse Evacuation Plans
This step is particularly important with regard to office parties because emergency evacuations are not that uncommon and many of the people at these events have absolutely no idea where the emergency doors, stairs, and other exits are located. Be especially mindful of children, seniors, and other individuals with special needs. If the group is especially large, appoint a few group leaders to point people in the right direction and assure them that someone is looking after them.
Have a Communication Plan
Assume that cell phone and Wi-Fi service will be unavailable in the wake of an emergency. Since it may be simpler to place long distance calls in these situations, designate an out-of-town contact person. After you take a headcount, make an
Speak Your Mind