In the event of an emergency would you know what to do?
Over the past year, staff in the Office of Emergency Preparedness at York University have been working on a guide for just that purpose. The publication, which is being distributed to all faculty and staff over the next few weeks, offers plenty of information on how to be prepared in the event that an emergency situation should arise.
The spiral bound guide book provides comprehensive response procedures encompassing a number of emergency situations that can affect York University campuses, including fire, severe weather situations, gas leaks, lock downs, bomb threats and hazardous material spills. The guide was developed in consultation with key departments on campus responsible for safety and security and incorporates best practices followed by other public institutions.
“Everyone is encouraged to review the guide and keep it in a spot where you can find it in the event of an emergency,” says Katherine Branton, manager of the Emergency Preparedness Office. “The guide will also be posted on the Emergency Preparedness Program website in the near future.”
The Emergency Preparedness Guide comes at a time when many departments have been working on and finalizing their emergency sub plans. It augments other public preparedness initiatives available at the University, which include personal preparedness videos, Safety Awareness Day and Emergency Response Warden Program.
In addition to releasing the guide, the Office of Emergency Preparedness is also seeking staff interested in participating in the Emergency Response Warden Program and is asking that existing Emergency Response Wardens refresh their training. To register for an upcoming session, visit the Emergency Preparedness Program website.
For more information contact Randy Diceman, emergency management coordinator, at 416-736-5634.