In times of emergency seconds count and knowing what to do and where to find help can make all the difference.

Being marked May1-7, Emergency Preparedness Week is aimed at highlighting the importance of emergency planning and response at the workplace and at home.

At Queen’s there is an array of resources being employed to ensure a safe, healthy environment for students, staff and faculty, such as the Emergency Notification System.

However, knowledge is key and David Patterson, Director of Campus Security and Emergency Services, suggests members of the Queen’s community review the Queen’s University Emergency Response Procedures.

“Emergencies can happen and while for Queen’s these are rare events, they are not unforeseeable,” he says. “By taking the time to review now it can assist you in remembering what to do in a serious, unexpected situation.”

The best way to make use of this resource, Mr. Patterson points out, is to print a copy of the procedures for your desk or workplace for reference before and during any emergency event.

For access to emergency information while on the go, download the SeQure mobile phone app or follow Campus Security and Emergency Services on Twitter and on Facebook.  

Individualized workplace emergency response plans for employees who have a disability that requires accommodation can be found on the university’s Environmental Health and Safety website, as well as a template to create lab-specific emergency response procedures.

“At Queen’s we have excellent resources and great people who are continually reviewing the emergency response process,” says Dan Langham, Director, Environmental Health and Safety. “However, all members of the Queen’s community play a role and that starts with educating yourself on what to do should an emergency arise.”

Safety starts at home and Emergency Preparedness Week is a good time to think about the best way to respond.

Information on how to prepare you and your family for an emergency is available at the following links:

• Emergency Management Ontario

• Get Prepared

• City of Kingston

• Canadian Red Cross

• St. John Ambulance