Ice, Ice Baby

Panicked working moms rushing to their families, only to find themselves stranded – some for more than 24 hours.  This was the scene in Atlanta on Wednesday that poured into Thursday morning.

An illustration of what happens when we’re unprepared for natural disasters.

“Cindy never should’ve gone to work today,” one concerned husband wrote on Facebook. Was he right? Maybe.

But, that’s not always an option so we have to be prepared at all times. Though it may seem like a daunting task, Elora Chow, Communications Manager, ePACT Network, says it’s easier than you think. The Canada native offers two simple steps individuals and employers can take to help during times of emergency.

“Communicating with your loved ones and across your entire staff as an employer is always a challenge in a crisis,” Chow tells PINK, but it’s important. “Having several ways to connect and exchange information is critical.”

She recommends investing in a system that enables you to securely connect with employees and their emergency contacts, and exchange information via web or mobile anytime, anywhere.

Social media expert Danica Kombol adds, “Charge your phone!” This is where your digital addiction can be beneficial. “Having access to social media is critical in a storm,” says Kombol.

“My friend, who walked the last four miles home gave updates on Twitter, even reaching out to news outlets along the way asking, ‘Is the hill at Mount Paran Road passable?’”

Chow also insists keeping an emergency kit that includes food and water in your car or at work.

One young woman wrote desperately on the SnowedOutAtlanta Facebook page that her diabetic mother was stranded leaving work and without food.

“You should have enough to last 72 hours,” says Chow. And, be sure to include flashlights, blankets and a first aid kit, too.

Better to be safe than sorry when you’re up against Mother Nature.

Were you stranded on the road in Atlanta? Tell us!

BONUS PINK Link: On a warmer note, Peg Walsh spends her days selling St. Barth’s. Here’s how she turned her passion into a career.

By L. Nicole Williams

“A smooth sea never made a skillful sailor.” Unknown