Disasters can happen anywhere. It’s estimated that about 6,800 natural disasters happen annually in the United States. These natural disasters can cost the country millions, if not billions, of dollars annually. Unfortunately, it can also cost hundreds of lives.
Disasters can happen anywhere. It can happen while you’re busy at work. So you should prepare your office for it when it happens. Here are five essential emergency devices you need to have in your office.
Emergency exit signs
Evacuations can be messy. It can cost your office precious time and even ruin lives if a stampede happens. However, most of the confusion during an evacuation is primarily from people panicking.
When people panic, they enter into what’s called the fight-or-flight response. It’s when people’s brains tell them to either confront the danger or run away from it.
The first reaction of most people might be to run towards the exits, but that’s the wrong thing to do. Instead, staying calm and following the indicated emergency exits is the best way to evacuate a building.
Emergency exits are designed explicitly for disasters. These exits are usually well-lit and wider than regular doors. They also have panic bars installed, which can easily be pushed by people, making it less likely for people to get trapped inside. However, emergency exits become useless if people don’t know how to get there. That’s why emergency exit signs are crucial.
You should install emergency exit signs in strategic locations. For example, they should be placed near every stairwell and elevator. In addition, you should consider placing them where people are most likely to congregate, such as near the break room or the restrooms. Finally, the signs should be prominent and visible enough so that people can see them even in the dark. This way, people can easily find their way to the nearest emergency exit.
Fire extinguishers
Fire is one of the most common disasters that happen in the country. It’s estimated that about a million fires occur annually, costing people billions of dollars. Not to mention the fact that it can also cause hundreds of deaths.
That’s why it’s crucial to have fire extinguishers in your office. Fire extinguishers are devices that are specifically designed to put out fires. They come in different types and sizes, but the ABC fire extinguisher is the most common.
The ABC fire extinguisher is the most versatile type of fire extinguisher. People can use it on all types of fires, including electrical fires. However, it’s important to note that not all fire extinguishers are created equal. Some fire extinguishers are only effective on certain types of fires. That’s why it’s essential to know which fire extinguisher to use on which type of fire.
Fire alarm
A fire alarm is a device that emits a loud sound when there’s a fire. It’s designed to notify people of a fire so they can evacuate the area immediately.
Fire alarms are connected to the electrical system of a building. However, there are also battery-operated fire alarms. These fire alarms are more reliable since they do not depend on the building’s power supply.
You should place fire alarms in strategic locations. For example, they should be placed near all the exits and areas where people are most likely to congregate. They should also be placed in areas where fires are most likely to start, such as the kitchen or the storage room.
First-aid kit
A first-aid kit is a collection of supplies used to treat minor injuries. It usually contains bandages, antiseptic wipes, and painkillers. First-aid kits are generally small and portable, so they can be easily carried around.
You should place first-aid kits in strategic locations. For example, restrooms and break rooms should always have first-aid kits. They should also be placed in areas where people are most likely to get injured, such as near the gym or the playground. These first-aid kits can be used outside of emergencies and are essential if an employee gets injured while on the job.
Flashlight
A flashlight is a portable device that emits a beam of light. It’s usually powered by batteries and provides light in dark places. Flashlights are essential during power outages or when there’s a fire.
Flashlights are essential during disasters because there’s a good chance that the power will be out. That’s why it’s crucial to have a flashlight in your office. You should place flashlights where your employees can easily retrieve them. It’s also good to ask your employees to store a personal flashlight on their desks.
Emergency devices are essential in any workplace. They can help keep your employees safe in a fire, power outage, or another disaster. In addition, having these devices in your office can prepare you for anything.
