1. Backup Generators to Prevent Power Outages

Does your building have sufficient backup generators to keep the power up and running during a storm? Ask your property manager if your office is equipped with back up servers and recovery systems, should a backup generator go out as well. This is especially important for financial companies in Jersey City and for insurance companies throughout NJ. 111 Town Square Place is an example of an office building in Jersey City that is equipped with several lines of defense against power outages and was able to stay lit during Hurricane Sandy.

2. Pick a Meeting Place and Stay In Touch

Designate a meeting spot where employees know to gather should there by an emergency evacuation during a storm.  

Develop and distribute an emergency phone tree with employees’ cell phone numbers and emergency contacts. By establishing a solid communication plan before hand, employees will know who to call if the office needs to stay closed and email is down.

3. Emergency Supplies

In some cases, your office building will be designated as the safest place to stay during a storm or emergency. For these situations, make sure your office has a stocked emergency supply kit.  You can even create these kits yourself. They should include cases of water bottles, canned and pre-packaged foods that won’t spoil, plenty of flash lights and spare batteries, and a basic First Aid kit. 

4. Contact Information

Keep a list of important contact information in a common area that all employees have access to.  These numbers should include your local law enforcement, hospitals, American Red Cross and designated off-site emergency contacts.  

5. Educate Employees

Make sure employees know where the emergency exits and stairwells are and how to use them in case the building loses power or the elevators stop running.

Host an emergency preparation session to discuss your emergency plan with all employees. Discussion points should include where to meet outside of the office, where the supply kits are and how to keep calm in an emergency.  Walking through a step-by-step plan is a helpful way to a company team feel safe and prepared.

For additional resources, you can consult the NJ’s Office of Emergency Management, here: http://www.state.nj.us/njoem/plan/hurricanes.html