Do you know what to do when an earthquake hits your city? You might think that it’s time for a disaster kit and some emergency food, but the truth is that there are many other steps you need to take. This article will go over six things every business owner should do before the next big quake hits.
Make Sure Your Business is Up to Code
One of the most important things you can make is sure your business is up to code. This means having a solid earthquake plan and ensuring all the employees know what to do in an emergency. You might also want to consider investing in seismic retrofitting, which can help keep your building safe during an earthquake. Make sure to check out Los Angeles seismic retrofit for more information.
Put Together an Emergency Kit for Employees and the Building
Another key step is putting together an emergency kit for both employees and the building. This kit should include water, food, medical supplies, and flashlights. It’s also a good idea to have a backup generator if the earthquake causes a power outage. It’s also a good idea to have backup power available in case of a power outage.
Conduct Periodic Earthquake Drills with All Employees
It’s also important to conduct periodic earthquake drills with all employees. This will help make sure everyone is prepared in case of an emergency. Drills can also help identify any potential problems with your earthquake plan. This will help them stay calm and know what to do in an emergency.
Identify Safe Spots in the Building, such as Bathrooms or Stairwells
If an earthquake does hit, it’s important to know where the safe spots are in your building. These might include bathrooms or stairwells, which are unlikely to be damaged during a quake. You should also identify any potential hazards, such as windows that could shatter or heavy objects that could fall over.
Review Insurance Policies to Make Sure They Cover Earthquakes
Before an earthquake hits, it’s important to review your insurance policies and make sure they cover earthquakes. Many policies do, but it’s always a good idea to be sure. If your business is located in an area prone to earthquakes, you may want to consider additional coverage, such as property protection. This way, you’ll be prepared for any damage that may occur.
Create a Plan of Action for After an Earthquake Strikes
After an earthquake strikes, it’s important to have a plan of action in place. It would be best to tell family members where you are and what’s happening, contact your insurance company to file a claim, and find ways to keep employees calm. Some things to consider are contacting family members, getting access to important documents if the building is damaged, and finding an open spot on the ground instead of under heavy objects.
What else can you do to prepare your business for an earthquake? Be sure that all employees know what they should be doing during and after a seismic event. Review the location of safe spots in the building, such as bathrooms or stairwells, so people know where to go when disaster strikes. Make sure any insurance policies cover earthquakes before something happens. And finally, create a plan of action with key staff members about how to proceed once the ground stops shaking. Contact a contractor today if you want help getting your business ready for an earthquake!