MayDay 2008: Do you have a disaster plan?

I couldn’t let MayDay 2008 pass without pointing everyone to the amazing annotated list of MayDay resources that the Society of American Archivists (SAA) has made available.

Does your institution have a disaster plan?
If not, the list of resources include a detailed set of Free Disaster Plan Templates. Today is the perfect day to download one and start planning.

A full disaster plan too overwhelming? SAA also provides a tidy list of easy MayDay activity ideas including:

Create or Update Your Contact Lists
One of the most important elements of disaster response is knowing how to contact critical people – emergency responders, staff, and vendors. Make sure your staff members have an up-to-date list that includes as much contact information as possible: work and home phone numbers (including direct lines at work), mobile phone numbers, work and home email addresses, and any other relevant addresses. Staff at many institutions hit by hurricanes in 2005 discovered that they couldn’t use work email or phone numbers because work systems were completely out of commission; those who had an alternative phone number or email address often could connect.

Make Sure Boxes Are Off the Floor
Any number of causes – a broken pipe, a clogged toilet, fire sprinklers – may result in water in your storage areas. If shelf space is limited, use pallets for clearance. Make sure nothing is on the floor where it can be soaked.

Don’t have precious cultural heritage materials under your care? Okay then, how about you? Do you have a Family Disaster Plan and a Disaster Supplies Kit ready?

Image Credit: Society of American Archivists MayDay 2008 Logo.