Emergency Preparedness: Deliveries

Many disasters can create the emergency of not being able to have food and supplies delivered as scheduled.

A very simple procedure that can eliminate this during short-term emergencies is to use skip days. For example, if the delivery normally comes in on Wednesday, skip Thursday, and don’t start using the delivery until Friday. Frequently, if the delivery cannot be delivered on the normal delivery day, it can be delivered the next day. This simple procedure prevents an emergency from even occurring.

Other things to do include identifying the food normally available and how these items can be used in the menu or in a simplified menu. There is also the emergency menu that can be used when needed. Most states have regulations related to needing a three-day supply on hand.

It is also good to have contracts with back-up vendors. Perhaps a delivery cannot be made because of an emergency between your facility and the warehouse. A more local vendor may not have any difficulties. It may also be possible to obtain food and supplies from alternative sources and establishments in the community. It is necessary to have contracts in advance of an emergency, however.

What contracts do you have in place?