3 minute read
As a small business owner, you should be on the lookout for certain risks that could create emergency situations. Dealing with an emergency situation is probably not something on the top of your wish list. But when an emergency does arise, you need to be able to handle it in a quick and orderly fashion. Knowing who you need to contact can help you effectively manage a stressful scenario. Because of this, we’ve created an emergency contact list template for your business for when you need to tackle these unexpected situations.
Essential contact information to include
What should you include on this list? To help you take immediate action, we’ve put together an emergency contact list template that you can download, print, and fill out. Here are seven recommended items that you may want to include on your emergency contact list.
1. Your business information
In times of crisis or emergency, it can be very easy to panic, freeze, and forget even the most basic information about your business. That’s why having your business’ name, address, location, and phone number at the very top of your list is crucial. When contacting emergency services, you should be ready to provide them with this information at the drop of a dime.
2. Your facility manager
Why is having your facility manager’s information important? Well, nobody knows your building better. Your facility manager, building owner, or landlord can come in handy when you need to handle a problem that’s specific to your building. They’ll know the ins-and-outs of the property and may be able to reverse an urgent situation.
3. Your employees
When an emergency occurs, you need to protect your employees. Knowing how to contact your employees can help you take the appropriate next steps in the event of an emergency. If you have more than 10 employees, there may be a specific order that you want to contact your employees in. Having emergency contacts identified for each of your employees, such as relatives or guardians, is also helpful if the emergency directly involves one of your employees. Be sure to include any medical information that can help you take care of an employee.
4. Your insurance company
Knowing your insurer’s contact information can help you jump-start the claims process and get your business up-and-running quickly after an emergency. Remember to include your insurance information on your list, including your insurance company’s name, their claims hotline phone number, and your policy number.
5. Emergency services
We all know that 911 is your go-to number for fire, police, and ambulance services, but there are other service numbers that you should have readily available as well. Some of these may include poison control, animal control, and your alarm company.
6. Utility companies
Knowing how to get in touch with your gas, electricity, and water service providers can help you minimize damages in scenarios such as gas leaks, circuit issues, and pipe bursts.
7. Other numbers
When filling out this contact list template, consider what additional numbers you may want to have ready to help you deal with emergency situations. Need help getting your employees home? Call your local taxi company. Need locks replaced? Call a trusted locksmith. Is your delivery van stuck in a ditch? Call roadside assistance. Are you having computer problems? Call technical support. Are you experiencing an internet outage? Call your internet provider. Having all of this information readily available on a form can help you effectively deal with emergency situations that occur at your business.
Maintenance and regular updates
Maintaining the accuracy of your emergency contact list is an essential aspect of business preparedness. Regular updates are essential, as outdated information can lead to delays or miscommunication during critical situations.
Make sure your small business is protected
Having an emergency contact list prepared will help ensure you can handle any emergencies that arise in an efficient and orderly fashion. Having the right insurance coverage can also help.
At TruShield Insurance, we’re here to assist you during emergencies that your business may face. Our policies are designed to protect Canadian startups, entrepreneurs, and small businesses from both minor hiccups and major emergencies. Get started by visiting our business insurance page today.
This blog is provided for information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information and will not be responsible for any loss arising out of reliance on the information. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply to coverage. See policy for details.