By Naseerah Nanabhai
30:06:2021

A crisis refers to a time of difficulty or danger and often occurs due to an unforeseen event. In controlling for such instances, many individuals, families and businesses may develop known crisis management procedures. This includes strategies that are applied to assist the home or business cope with a sudden negative occurrence.

Some characteristics of crisis management include prior recognition of hazards and threats, with focused efforts to prevent these from occurring. It also consists of real-time active analysis, situational awareness and effective communication. Most importantly, crisis management is characterised by implementing appropriate strategies to curb the negative impact or losses caused by the crisis itself.

Whether at home or work, crises are inevitable; therefore, effective management is a crucial tool to have and build on. Some tips for crisis management include avoiding panicking and focusing on the situation at hand, acting promptly but thinking about every action you take, managing your expectations in restoring the problem, and being flexible enough to change what may not have worked the first time.

In preparing for crisis management, one may choose to draw up a crisis management plan. This serves as a reference tool that can be used during the time of emergency. It would typically include items such as the contact information of key people or organisations, reminders of what can be done in certain instances and other helpful information unique to the home or business.

After everything has settled and the crisis adequately managed, it is good to reflect on the situation and prepare for and control similar occurrences in the future. Know that crises are bound to happen, but how we respond to them and treat them is what matters.