Emergency Preparedness
At Work: Clear Desk Policy
In the event that a tropical storm or hurricane threatens your area, prior to being released from duty, all personnel will be directed to participate in office pre-evacuation procedures to try to minimize damage and limit business interruption. Please be assured that management takes each and every storm very seriously, and is going to take the necessary precautions to ready our building for the possible arrival of a storm. The following outlines steps to be taken by each employee to ensure the protection and security of documents, computer equipment and facilities. The most important thing you can do individually is to secure your individual office.
Effective immediately, before one leaves for an evacuation, please assure the completion of the following:
Securing Individual Offices
- Make sure all loose papers and items are secured.
- Box up any important files in your office and move to an internal room.
- If you have a laptop, take it with you.
- Make sure you UNPLUG all computer equipment and all electrical equipment in your office.
- Take any valuables or important personal items with you.
- Make sure your blinds are UP in your office to minimize any damage to them.
- Make sure your door is closed before you leave.
- Do not leave anything valuable on the floor.
IT Preparations
- Again, notebook computer users should take their devices with them.
- Desktop users should relocate devices to an interior office.
- Disconnect your Desktop PC and place a label with your name on it.
- All servers will be backed up and tapes stored offsite.
- Servers and phone switches will be powered off approximately 12 hours before landfall.
Personal Preparedness
We have also provided links to various State and Local governmental agencies websites on the various tabs on this page. Please take a look at those resources for assistance with preparing your households for an emergency or threatening storm.
Before a Hurricane Threatens
- Begin preparing now to protect you and your family
- Discuss the types of hazards that could affect your family and know your home's vulnerability
- Check your insurance coverage
- Determine your personal evacuation plan
- Have an out of state friend as a family contact
- Plan for your pets
When a Hurricane Threatens
- Fill your gas tanks
- Refill your prescriptions
- Buy emergency supplies
- Be prepared to turn off gas, water and electricity where it enters your home
- Secure your boat
- Secure other movable objects
- Put all important documents in a safe and portable container
- Board up your windows
If an Evacuation is Called
- Leave as soon as you can
- Take necessary supplies
- Disconnect major appliances
- Bring in outdoor objects
- Leave food and water for pets
- Shut water off at main valve
