Preparedness Etiquette

October 27th is etiquette maven Emily Post's birthday (b. 1873). Etiquette can be defined as the code of conduct established for a particular community or occasion. Proper preparedness etiquette dictates that guests should be welcomed with a short explanation of your safety measures, and how they should respond in case of emergencies while visiting. For example, point out the emergency exits and the locations of first aid kits and fire extinguishers.

Work out your simple, gracious safety welcome, and share it with your staff and/or volunteers. Remind them of this preparedness etiquette rule, and lead by example. Making this a habit will protect (and impress) your guests and help ensure that safety remains part of your organizational culture.