Get Organized

To function more effectively, take time to get organized.

• Remember that the shock and stress of an emergency will reduce your normal mental capacity.
• DO NOT WORK ALONE—you need a “disaster comrade” to help you through decision-making and the physical demands of the clean-up and salvage process.

After a Minor Disaster (limited damage to your work/storage space)

FIRST STEPS:

1. Isolate/secure the affected area.
2. Locate the source of the problem and stop it if this safe to do (if you know how, turn off electricity/gas/water; otherwise, call your utility companies.)
3. Get rid of major hazards: contact emergency service workers to deal with structural, electrical and chemical or other threats to health and safety.
4. Assess health and safety risks; get protective gear
5. Conduct a damage assessment and notify your insurance agent, building owner, etc.

SECOND STEPS:

1. Identify needs for outside assistance, and notify, as necessary: Needs an Expert Financial Investment
   • Hazardous waste contractor
   • Service workers or providers
   • Volunteers
2. Prevent further damage
3. Make a triage plan:
   • What can stay in place (with or without protection)?
   • What is unsalvageable and should be disposed of?
   • What needs to be moved to a secure, dry area?
   • Where will your “triage area” be?
4. Assemble useful equipment and supplies.

After a Major Disaster (extensive damage to your work/storage space, building, and environs)

Depending on the nature of the disaster, the need for evacuation, and when you get clearance from emergency authorities to re-enter your building, you may have to address the First Steps below from an off-site location. While you wait, you can also prepare for the Second Steps.

FIRST STEPS:

1.  Alert your insurance agent Needs an Expert
2.  If it’s safe to do so AND you know how, turn off electricity/gas/water. Otherwise, call your utility company.
3.  Get rid of major hazards. Contact emergency service workers to deal with structural, electrical and chemical or other threats to health and safety.

SECOND STEPS:

1. Assess health and safety risks
2. Get protective gear and useful supplies and equipment
3. Identify needs for outside assistance, and notify, as necessary: Needs an Expert Financial Investment
   1. Hazardous waste contractor
   2. Service workers or providers
   3. Volunteers

THIRD STEPS:

1. Assess, document, and report damage
2. Prevent further damage
3. Make a triage plan:
   1. What can stay in place (with or without protection)?
   2. What is unsalvageable and should be disposed of?
   3. What needs to be moved to a secure, dry area?
   4. Where will your “triage area” be?
   5. Where should you locate a first aid station/rest area
4. Purchase more supplies as needed.