Download Our Comprehensive Emergecy Response Plan.

The following plan is implemented in our centers. Each center has the standard plan in place with
specific details regarding evacuation plans for each facilty.
Basic Emergency Plan Part I
1. PURPOSE
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To provide for the protection of children and staff in the event of a natural, technological, or
human imposed emergency or disaster.
To assure coordination and cooperation with municipal and county government and emergency
services.
2. SITUATION AND ASSUMPTIONS
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The facility, Today’s Child Learning Center, is located at____________ and normally has
children and staff. Normal operating hours for the facility are Monday through Friday and
closed on weekends. The facility assumes responsibility for the health and safety of the children
attending the facility.
The facility is located in Aston Borough, PA whose emergency management agency will be the
primary source of governmental assistance during an emergency.
Assistance during emergencies will be dispatched through the Delaware County 9-1-1 and be
coordinated by the Delaware County Emergency Management Agency.
The facility may be subject to the following natural disasters and emergencies:
* Natural Disasters
Flooding, high winds, tropical storms, hurricanes, lightening strikes
icing, blizzards
* Technological Disaster
Power outage, gas leak, HAZMAT Spill, water main break, oil leak
* Security Emergencies or Disasters
Domestic violence, intruder, suspicious person, criminal escape
3. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS
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General:
* Direction and Control - The facility director will assume responsibility for
emergency actions until the arrival of emergency service personnel.
* The facility director will gather and record information necessary to determine
appropriate emergency actions.
* Regular drills on emergency plans, procedures and duties will be conducted to:
* Provide training for staff, including substitutes;
* Orient children on emergency procedures and responsibilities; and
* Develop skills needed for a real emergency.
* Accountability
* Children will only be released to adult(s) designated by the parent;
* In case of an evacuation, attendance will be taken at the assembly area,
upon boarding and exiting the emergency transport vehicle(s) and upon
the arrival at the relocation facility.
4. ORGANIZATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
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Day-care facility Director will:
* Be familiar with emergency plans for the municipality (Borough, City,
Township and County).
* Ensure Agreements of Assistance are current with Relocation Facilities and
transportation providers(if applicable).
* Determine a course of action to be taken during an emergency.
* Maintain this plan in a current and usable state.
* Notify parents to tune to a designated local media for information during the
emergency.
* Ensure that parents are contacted as soon as reasonably possible when an
emergency situation arises, so that they are aware of what is happening to their
children.
* Keep the staff aware of the status of the emergency.
* Determine the number and types of transportation needed if evacuation or
relocation is required.
* Take children’s emergency records to the evacuation/relocation site.
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Staff will:
* Review and assist in keeping the plan and checklists current.
* Maintain supervision of children until they are released to parents or guardians.
* Perform special assignments as specified in the plan checklists (Part II).
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Parents are requested to:
* Be familiar with the plans and procedures for ensuring safety of the children.
* Provide the daycare facility with means to contact them in an emergency.
* Tune to designated local media for information and instructions during an emergency.
5. AUTHORITY AND REFERENCES
In accordance with the Office of Children, Youth and Families Bulletin Number 3001-03-01 issued
December 27, 2003 the scope of which covered all Child Day Care Centers, Group Child Day Care
Homes, Family Child Day Care Homes and other interested parties an Emergency Operations Plan is
to be developed.
The Department of Public Welfare interprets 55 Pa. Code §3270.21, §3280.20, and §3290.18,
relating to general health and safety, to require that each child day care center, group child day care
home and family child day care home must have an emergency plan. The Department of Public
Welfare recognizes that an emergency plan in child day care facilities is vital to ensure the health
and safety of children enrolled in child day care facilities. In order to respond to a variety of
emergency events, each child day care center, group child day care home and family child day care
home operator must develop an emergency plan that addresses the facility’s specific needs.
6. PLAN DEVELOPMENT, MAINTENANCE
AND DISTRIBUTION
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The legal entity/ owner/ operator of the day care center is responsible for:
* The development, execution and maintenance of the emergency plan.
* Annual review and update of the plan.
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Copies of this plan have been given to the Delaware County Emergency Management Agency in
addition to other related organizations listed in section 7.
7. CONCURRENCE WITH OUTSIDE RESOURCES
Date
Organization
Philadelphia Office of Emergency
Management
General E-mail: [email protected]
General Fax: 215-686-1117
American Red Cross
23rd and Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 299-4000
Disaster Services
(215) 299-4889 (24 hours per day)
Today’s Child Learning Centers, Inc.
Corporate Office
1016 Maple Avenue
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
Signature
Date Plan
Received
Copy
Number
8. RECORD OF CHANGES
Date of
Change
Summary of Change
Signature of Person Making
Change
This plan supercedes all previously developed emergency plans.
Date Change
Distributed
Part II
Direction and Control Operations, Protective Actions and
Procedures,
Checklist
INTRODUCTION
The intent of this plan is to assist the childcare Director and staff in responding to emergency situations,
provide information that can be used with family members concerning emergency planning, and provide
a basis for restoration of services. The Director and staff of each center are considered responsible for
the safety of children and will coordinate actions and/or requirements with community/public safety
officials, Sponsor or Landlord’s security and facilities, and families/guardians.
Note: If local licensing regulations require more than this Emergency Response Plan, the licensing
requirements will prevail. In addition, Sponsor Emergency plans take the place of this plan where
applicable.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE ORGANIZATION
Where applicable, the Center’s Emergency Response Plan is integrated into the Landlord’s Emergency
Response Plan, Emergency instructions and directions will be taken from the Landlord’s and/or the local
emergency agency at event scenes at or near the Center. In the event of an emergency, the Director will
oversee the situation at the Center. In the Director’s absence, the emergency management
responsibilities are delegated to the next in charge.
The Emergency Response Plan shall be reviewed periodically for modifications to the procedures,
change of key personnel or other resources, and additions of new emergency management information.
The Emergency Response Plan shall be controlled by the Center Director to ensure appropriate updates,
changes and reviews are incorporated in all distributed copies of this plan. A copy of this plan shall be
maintained by the following:
 Center Director
 Center Office
 Landlord
The following situations will be covered by this plan:
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Evacuation Procedures and Process
Sheltering/ Sheltering in Place
Medical Emergencies
Natural Disaster, Hurricane, Tornado, Severe Storms
Utility Disruption
Fire/Smoke Emergencies
Bomb Threat
Suspicious Articles
Potentially Violent Situations
Random Acts of Violence
Disgruntled/Impaired Parents/Guardians
Hostage Situations
Missing Child
OVERALL OPERATIONAL CRISIS/EMERGENCY ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
In the event of an emergency situation, the Center Director shall declare an emergency situation and
institute the appropriate response actions. In the event that the Director is not available, the next
person in authority shall assume the responsibilities of the Director.
Center Director:
Alternate:
Work with Landlord and local emergency agencies to arrange for evacuation locations and
transportation away from the Center.
1. Familiarize all staff with the crisis/emergency response plan and ensure effective
implementation.
2. Ensure that the Center’s practice drill program is implemented and documented.
3. Ensure supplies and equipment are present and checked at least monthly.
4. Review each crisis/emergency situation to ensure proper reports are completed and appropriate
action is taken to prevent repetition of any ineffective efforts.
5. Act as a team leader in crisis/emergency situation. Identify the emergency situation and
determine course of action.
6. Activate contact with local authorities to inform Center of potential crisis/emergency situation.
Next in Charge:
Alternate:
The responsibilities of the person Next in Charge are to assist the Director during an emergency, and
in the absence of the Director, assume all responsibilities.
1. Become familiar with the Crisis/Emergency Response Plan.
2. Provide complete crisis/emergency response training to employees on a regular basis and
updates as necessary.
3. Take the lead in planning, implementing and tracking all training to update and check the
accuracy of current crisis/emergency response procedures.
4. Work with the Center Director to investigate and evaluate each crisis/emergency situation
to prevent repetition of ineffective efforts.
5. See that all injuries and issues are attended to immediately and referred to the Center
Director to determine if contact with other authorities is necessary.
6. Coordinate a regular plan of inspection of work areas to detect unsafe conditions and work
practices.
7. Act as a team leader in crisis/emergency situation. Identify the emergency situation and
determine the course of action.
Employee Responsibilities:
1. Notify the Director of emergency situations as they become aware of them.
2. Follow emergency procedures as outlined and directed by the person in charge.
3. Safety and well being of the children in their care.
Landlord
Where applicable the landlord is responsible for the safety of the building and grounds. The health and
safety, security and facilities procedures established by the Landlord shall be followed by the Center in
conjunction with center policies and licensing regulations. For emergencies, the Director shall
immediately notify the Landlord after calling 911 for medical, fire or security emergencies. They will
notify the appropriate Landlord response personnel as necessary.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS, SYSTEMS, AND LOCATIONS
Use Emergency Numbers list (see attachment A); post by all phones and attach copy to this plan.
All classroom and common areas have a floor plan outlining the evacuation routes from the location as
well as denoting the location the location of all fire extinguishers. The attachments included in this plan
note the location of utility shut-offs, shelter in place locations, locked shelter locations and evacuation
meeting place. Also included is a map to the off-site evacuation location.
The telephone number of a facility that agrees to serve as short-term host facility until children are
picked up).
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Transportation arrangements:
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Shelter (in place): See Map
In the event of an emergency requiring an evacuation away from Center premises, the Center shall
coordinate necessary provisions for the transportation and continued care of children until
parent/guardian or an authorized individual picks up the child.
EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN
In the event of an emergency situation that requires an evacuation of the Center, one of the following
plans shall be implemented. In all situations, the caregiver in charge shall:
1. Take an accurate attendee list
2. Account for all children and staff as they board/depart vehicles and at all new locations
3. Bring any necessary medications/supplies and emergency records
4. Take a cellular phone to be used for emergency notifications
If the emergency environment is confined to the immediate area of the child care facility, e.g. fire or
toxic fumes and the children cannot stay on the premises the children will be brought to ___________by
Emergency Personnel or walking where they will remain accompanied by caregivers while
family/guardian/emergency contacts are notified of the situation and arrangements are made for either
pick up or care for the remainder of the day. The place of safety should be close by and within walking
distance if appropriate.
In the event of exposure to toxic materials or gases and a physical examination is recommended,
children will be transported by ambulance to _____________________________ where they will be
examined and family/guardian/emergency contacts will be notified.
If the emergency is more widespread and encompasses a larger area such as a neighborhood or several
homes, due to a non confined environmental threat, e.g. toxic fumes from a spill, flood waters, brush
fires, etc. and the children cannot remain in the area, the children will be brought to the designated
evacuation area as instructed by the local emergency management coordinators by bus where they will
remain accompanied by caregivers while family/guardian/emergency contacts are notified and
arrangements for pick up or continuation of care are made.
In the event of a major environmental hazard that necessitates a larger area evacuation such as several
neighborhoods, a city/town or geographical area, due to a large non confined hazard. e.g. nuclear
incident, earthquakes, hurricanes, etc., children will be transported to a Red Cross designated mass
shelter by bus where they will remain accompanied by caregivers while family/guardian/emergency
contacts are notified and arrangements for pick up or continuation of care are made.
Staff will remain with and care for the children at all times during an event.
Attendance will be checked whenever children are moved.
Staff will bring any necessary medications, supplies and emergency records.
CENTER EVACUATION PROCEDURES
The following measures should be taken during an evacuation:
1. Check attendance and compile an accurate attendance list. Use list during evacuation and take it
along during transport to host facility.
2. Account for all children, staff, and visitors during evacuation process.
3. Transport all necessary medications, supplies, records, emergency numbers and cell phones.
4. Coordinate all actions with community public safety and/or emergency management officials.
5. Confirm required transportation resources and arrival times.
6. Determine host facility based on situation.
7. Pre-determine assembly area nearby requiring short walk or transportation.
o Transportation to host facility some distance away.
o Contact host facility with estimated arrival time.
8. Notify families of evacuation and host facility information, if possible.
9. Make arrangements for support of children at host facility until reunited with families or return
to facility.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities for Evacuation or Drills
Definitions of people responsible during an evacuation:
1. Emergency Assembly Area - An area outside the Center that is designated for assembly of
the building occupants in the event of an emergency.
2. Evacuation Chief (Director) - The person responsible for the evacuation of the Center and its
occupants.
3. Searcher (Director or Assistant Director) - The person(s) responsible for checking that all
occupants have evacuated the building.
The Director and any other Center employees not counted in ratio will assist in all duties and
responsibilities as designated by the Director.
The Center Director (Evacuation Chief) is responsible for notifying all building occupants to initiate
evacuation of the building, ensuring the building has been safely evacuated, and for ensuring
accountability of all occupants.
Pre -evacuation Duties:
1. To assure evacuation assembly areas and routes are posted in all areas.
2. Ensure that all assigned employees are knowledgeable of how, when and where to evacuate
when necessary.
Evacuation Duties:
1. Initiate evacuation procedures by either pulling the fire alarm and/or notifying the building
occupants through the intercom system or use of air horn.
2. Notify landlord of evacuation initiation.
3. Report to designated assembly area.
4. Ensure searchers carry out their assignments.
5. Ensure accountability of building occupants through the reports of the coordinators.
6. Determine if evacuation area provides adequate safety of children. Initiate further evacuation to
another facility if necessary.
7. Coordinate with the local emergency response personnel as needed.
Assistant Director/2nd in Charge primary responsibility is to ensure that all Center occupants assigned
to their area are evacuated when necessary and accountability is reported to the Director.
Pre-evacuation Duties:
1.
2.
3.
4.
To be knowledgeable of the duties of the Director and searchers.
To have access to a list of all occupants in their area for accountability purposes.
To ensure all exits are marked, unobstructed and sign are lit.
To check that all evacuation signs are posted and are accurate.
Evacuation Duties:
1. Maintain order during the evacuation.
2. Ensure searchers perform their duties as assigned.
3. Provide accountability for all occupants in their assigned areas and report results to the
Director.
4. Stay with the evacuated group until notified by emergency response personnel.
Any center employees other than the Director and Assistant Director who are not counted in ration at
the time are assigned as searchers and are responsible for ensuring that all occupants of their assigned
area are evacuated safely and properly to their designated assembly areas.
Pre-evacuation Duties:
1. Pre plan all areas that require searching in the event of an emergency; i.e., restrooms, closets,
structures on playground areas, etc.
2. Be knowledgeable of the responsibilities of a searcher.
Evacuation Duties:
1. Upon notification of an evacuation, all employees should be assisting with the orderly
evacuation of the occupants.
2. A staff member from each classroom should conduct al thorough search of assigned areas when
occupants have evacuated, reporting findings to the Director.
3. Assist the Director and Assistant Director as necessary.
Evacuation Process
The decision to evacuate the Center will be made by the Director or their designee.
When the decision is made to evacuate the building, the Director will make the announcement in the
most expeditious way possible that all persons are to evacuate to their assigned assembly areas and
await further instructions and/or activate the building fire alarm. The Director will notify the appropriate
emergency personnel.
Center staff will evacuate the children as follows:
Students and staff will be evacuated by the alarm to designated area outside of auditorium. Everyone
must leave the building. Teachers are to take first aid kits and class attendance sheets. The Director is
responsible for taking the daily attendance log, the emergency contacts and the emergency operations
plan. Director will ensure that everyone has evacuated the building. At designated area teachers will do
a count of the children to be sure all are accounted for and check count against attendance sheets.
Director will then recount all children and check count against class attendance sheets and attendance
log. After attendance is reported it will be decided the best course of action according to what the
emergency entails. Depending upon emergency further instructions will be given on evacuation to
Community Center, remaining in place, or returning to the building. Parents will be contacted to pick up
the children when deemed necessary.
Center searchers will assist the staff with the evacuation and then proceed to perform their assigned
duties.
Note: Under no circumstances are staff to stop for any of their own or the children’s personal
belongings, including jackets, shoes, pocketbooks, etc.
Center Accountability Process
In the event of an evacuation the Center Director will take a printout of the children and employees
logged into the Center and a list of all visitors in the building. The list will be taken to the designated
assembly areas and attendance will be taken.
The Director will notify the appropriate authorities of the results and report any missing children, staff,
or visitors, providing information as to possible locations.
EVACUATION AWAY FROM THE CENTER
Procedures at Evacuation Location Site
There are 5 essential jobs during a Center evacuation
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
1.
Evacuation Chief - Director
First Aid
Communications
Play Space Operations
Child Pick Up Point
Evacuation Chief:
o
o
o
o
o
2.
Make sure all children are accounted for.
Determine the safest location for continued operations until children can be picked up
and the safest path for all staff/children to get there.
Activate the parent /guardian pick up point assignment. This should be the best location
away from the play space areas and first aid station.
Activate the communications assignment and provide specific phrases for the caller and
information about the parent/guardian pick up point - when possible be the one to
make contact with those families whose children have been injured as a result of the
event.
Inform the Regional director and landlord as soon as you are able.
First Aid Assignment:
o
Administer first aid as necessary
Key materials: Complete first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, cell phone and
radio.
o
o
o
3.
Maintain necessary supplies of first aid supplies, make sure batteries and cell phones
are in working order.
Report to Director any injuries and/or potentially hazardous conditions.
Maintain a log of actions taken and children and staff treated.
Communications Assignment:
o
o
Check with Director about exact information to give to families when calling (emphasis
should be placed on the child’s condition and the pick up location)
Locate nearest phone and collect the emergency information from the Director with
family phone numbers.
o
o
o
o
4.
Play Space Assignment:
o
o
o
o
o
5.
Discuss with the Director, the exact wording to offer families whose children have been
injured in some way by the event.
Report back to Director with updates, needs and problems during rounds.
Maintain an accurate list of those who have been contacted and those who still need to
be contacted.
Inform the parents when the emergency situation has ended via the contact list.
Determine where to set up different groups of children.
Use blankets, tables and chairs to define areas.
Determine nearest, safest bathroom and arrange for supervision.
Report back to Director with updates, needs and problems.
Key materials: Prepared Emergency Evacuation Kit, play materials.
Pick Up Assignment:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Establish an area away from the primary play area and first aid areas to control access.
Collect all the sign in sheets to monitor family pick ups.
Select a staff member to collect children and bring them to the pick up area.
Report back to Director with updates, needs and problems.
Maintain an accurate record of who has/has not been picked up.
Maintain a count by class if possible.
Key materials: Sign in sheets, markers/pens.
SHELTERING IN PLACE
Sheltering is conducted in response to tornadoes and severe storms. Sheltering in place is defined as
moving people into the building and isolating the building environment from the outside, Emergency
response personnel will shut down air handling (HVAC), water, and electrical systems, as required,
however, many air handling systems will shut down automatically. Sheltering in place is conducted in
response to hazardous materials incidents.
Sheltering: Any sheltering area should be identified on the center plan/map.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Identify shelter areas that provide the most structural resistance from collapse.
Shelter areas within the facility should be appropriately marked.
Shelter areas will be free of items that may fall.
Shelter areas will have a flashlight or emergency light available.
Shelter areas will have blankets available.
A primary and alternate staff member will be assigned to shut off systems as directed.
These members will be trained by the Center or landlord maintenance and utility
personnel in the proper procedures.
Sheltering in Place: Shelter in place involves keeping all windows and doors closed and covering all air
intake vents to provide protection from airborne hazardous materials.
o
o
o
Ensure all Center staff and children are in the building.
If necessary, emergency response personnel will shut off all HVAC systems to isolate the
outside are from the building.
Remain in the building until notified by the emergency response authorities that the
situation has been resolved or that an evacuation has been ordered.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
Guidelines on Handling Medical Emergencies
The following information is provided as a quick reference to help make decisions in a stressful
emergency situation. This information is by no means intended to substitute for adequate first aid
training. Staff involved in the direct care of children should maintain current certification in First Aid and
CPR for infants and children.
By applying standard principles of action in every medical situation, staff can prevent further harm and
avoid overlooking certain factors that may affect a child. It is important for staff to recognize signs and
symptoms requiring immediate action and ambulance transport to the nearest hospital emergency
department, as opposed to those that are not emergencies and can be treated at the Center and/or
while waiting for the child to be picked up. The teacher who is with the child should provide first aid
according to the principles of emergency action.
Medical Emergency Conditions
Listed below are some examples of conditions that are considered serious medical emergencies
requiring immediate medical care by a health professional. Call an ambulance and then notify the child’s
parent/guardian immediately for any of the following:
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Semi consciousness ( able to arouse but extremely lethargic) or unusual confusion
Breathing difficulties including:
-rapid, noisy breathing - barking, gurgling, crowing sounds, severe wheezing
-labored breathing - takes so much effort that the child can not talk, cry, eat, drink or play
 severe bleeding - large multiple wounds that can not be controlled with direct
pressure
 unequal pupils - black centers in the eyes
 first time seizures or seizures lasting more than 15 minutes an a child with a
known seizure disorder
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injury that causes loss of consciousness
neck or back injury
continuous clear drainage from the nose or ears following a blow to the head
non injury related sever headache, stiff neck or neck pain when head is moved
hives that appear quickly, especially if hives involve the face, lips, tongue and/or neck
very sick looking or sick acting child who seems to be getting worse quickly
repeated forceful vomiting after eating in an infant under 4 months of age
severe abdominal pain that causes the child to double over and scream
abdominal pain without vomiting or diarrhea following a recent blow to the abdomen or a hard
fall
possible broken bones, especially if the child shows symptoms of shock or body parts can not
be adequately splinted or otherwise immobilized for transport by parent/guardian
Life threatening medical emergencies: The patient requires immediate medical intervention to stabilize
and prevent the medical condition from deteriorating. Examples of life threatening medical
emergencies are: compound fractures, severe lacerations, internal bleeding, severe burns, difficulty
in breathing, heart problems, shock , severe allergic reaction, poisonous plant contact, animal bites,
ingesting of poisons/chemicals and unconsciousness.
Procedure for Life Threatening Emergencies
Person finding injures or ill person shall:
1. Remain calm, render first aid and call for help. Do not move the injured or sick person unless
his/her safety and health are at risk.
2. Call 911 for emergency medical services and report the incident or request someone else to call.
Stay on the line with the dispatcher and provide information as requested.
Center Director or Designee shall:
1. Report the incident to the Regional Director, or call 911 if not already in action.
2. Assign an individual to meet the emergency medical personnel to guide them to the location
3. Pull the emergency medical release form of the injured child and provide it to the emergency
medical personnel upon arrival
4. Assign a staff member to accompany the patient to the hospital
5. Make notification to applicable emergency contacts of the injured
6. Contact the following to report the incident:
 DPW Regional Office
7. Maintain communications with the staff member assigned to stay with the injured
for progress reports
The teacher should apply appropriate first aid measures for all medical emergencies and minor illnesses
or injuries as outlined in the American Red Cross Pediatric First Aid. Keep a copy of this section with the
first aid kit.
Notifying a Parent/Guardian
The parent /guardian of a sick or injured child should be contacted by telephone as soon as possible. The
Center Director or staff member should continue to try and reach the parent/guardian or emergency
contact. However, whether or not the contact is made, the child should still be taken to the hospital
whenever a medical emergency arises.
SNOW AND ICE STORMS
Monitor winter storm watch, warnings, blizzard warnings and travel advisories. Check the status of
battery powered radios, flashlights, back up lighting, power, heat and cell phones.
Consider pre-storm closing (night before) or early closing depending on conditions - secure Regional
Director’s approval. Release non-essential staff in accordance with the center closing procedures.
Arrange for snow and ice removal as well as possible debris removal such as fallen trees and utility lines.
TORNADO
A tornado watch means that a tornado is likely over a large area. A tornado warning means that a
tornado has been sighted or is indicated on weather radio in a specific area. Monitor tornado watch,
warnings, or severe thunderstorm watch/warning.
Tornado Cover - Administrative Procedures
Take cover announcements are issued by the Center Director when one or more of the following
conditions exist:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
A tornado is sighted
A tornado siren is heard
A tornado warning is issued that effects the Center
High winds at or exceeding 60 mph
Golf ball size hail or larger
Rapidly dropping pressure, dark greenish clouds
Watch Conditions - issued by the National Weather Service for the area
1.
2.
3.
4.
Tornado spotters are alerted
Radios should be monitored in the Center office
All teachers should be notified of the watch
Tornado shelters should be checked to ensure that they are clear
When the announcement to take cover is given, the Director and other management take the
emergency information (children and staff emergency contacts) and assist in the cover procedures in
rooms with infants and non ambulatory children first. If more than one administrative staff is present,
divide the building into sections and move to assist. Director and other management need to check all
areas for “hidden” children. Ensure that all children in each room are accounted for.
When the all clear sign is given, check with the teachers from each room to assess damage and count
children. If there is any question about damage to the Center, do not re-enter the building until
emergency personnel have surveyed the building. Inform all teachers of any facility hazards. Determine
if any areas of the building must be closed
from access. If it is unsafe to remain at the Center, assess whether Alternate Site is a safe back up and
evacuate the children.
Classroom Tornado Procedures
Each classroom teacher are assigned the following responsibilities
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Take the attendance and first aid kit
begin evacuating children to designated tornado shelter area
Avoid windows and glass doorways
Close doors to outside rooms
Protect the heads of staff and children with blankets
6. Last check for children in hidden areas
7. Evacuate any remaining children and close the door
8. Remain in the shelter area until given further instruction
HURRICANE
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Monitor hurricane watch and warnings
Secure outside equipment
Check status of battery powered radio and alternate light sources
Remain indoors until storm passage is confirmed
Prepare to evacuate. If necessary, evacuate children and staff to a more secure facility
depending on road and safety conditions. Provide information on where the facility plans to
evacuate for families.
FLOODING
1. Monitor announcements of Flood Watch/Warnings
2. Close or evacuate facility if needed. Heed evacuation orders from public safety officials.
UTILITY DISRUPTION (water, heat, electricity, water)
If utilities are disrupted in the Center, the Center will make every effort to remain open. The decision to
close the Center or delay its opening will be based on the following factors:
1.
2.
3.
4.
The amount of natural light in the Center
The temperature in the Center
The ability and necessity of heating food and formula
The risk to the health and well being of children and staff
Note: Check State Licensing Regulations concerning the procedure for utility disruption
The staff will begin calling parents/guardians to inform them of the situation after 1 hour or disrupted
service. Infant families will be called first and may need to be called sooner depending n how much
disruption has occurred to basic caregiver routines. This time period will allow the Center to assess the
situation and provide families with as much accurate information as possible.
Notify the Regional Director of the situation
The Center may close or delay opening (confirm with Regional Director) if the following conditions are
present:
1. The temperature of the Center thermostats register 64°or below, or 85°or higher for one hour,
unless otherwise noted by the state licensing agency, with no expectation of heat/air
conditioning restoration within the next one to two hours, and/or the room conditions prevent
adequate ventilation and breathing.
2. The natural light in the Center is diminished to the point that the children and staff are at risk.
3. The main phone line in the Center is inoperable for more than one hour, and no auxiliary cellular
phones are available.
4. The nutritional needs of the children can not be met.
5. Live wires will require the immediate closing of the Center and the transfer of the children.
6. Loss of water that disrupts appropriate diapering, hand washing and toileting with clean running
water for more than 1 hour.
Reporting facility System Emergencies
In the event that any of the critical systems for the Center become inoperable, the Director shall
immediately notify the Regional Director and the landlord of the facility. The Facility person will assess
the situation and provide the necessary resources to correct the problem. Facilities will arrange for
temporary services, i.e. electrical power, portable toilets, drinkable water, etc. if possible, if the problem
cannot be corrected in a timely manner. If support is not available to the Center, the Director shall make
contact with the appropriate repair personnel and arrange for the necessary resources to correct the
problem.
The Center Director shall communicate with the Regional Director and landlord to estimate the duration
of the event. If the duration of the event is likely to pose a sanitary or safety threat, or if the disruption
would make the facility environment untenable, the Center may need to close early at the direction of
the Center Director and Regional Director.
In the event of a major incident involving a critical system, i.e., explosion, building collapse, electrical
sparking, etc. call 911 and order an evacuation of the center.
FIRE
Fire Procedures
Each facility has a fire emergency plan including an evacuation procedure, marked exits, fire/smoke
detectors, fire extinguishers, safe storage and use of flammable materials and fire safety training and
fire drills. The fire plan specifies when and how to evacuate in case of fire and under what conditions
staff should attempt to control a fire using extinguishers.
Check with fire officials to remain current on fire safety such as regular inspections and use of fire
extinguishers, detectors and alternate heating sources. Fire safety training is update on a yearly basis.
Conduct regular fire drills in accordance with state licensing regulations.
FIRE EMERGENCIES
All Center staff are to familiarize themselves with the fire emergency procedures and maintain their
areas free from the accumulation of combustible materials. Staff are responsible for ensuring that all fire
extinguishers, alarm boxes, exits and paths to exits are unobstructed at all times.
Response to Fires
1. If a fire or smoke is detected, immediately activate the nearest pull station/call 911 and, if
applicable, activate the duress button to report the fire and begin evacuation per the evacuation
procedure.
2. If the fire is small (waste paper basket size) extinguish the fire by using water, blanket, fire
extinguisher, etc. DO NOT TAKE RISKS. Personal safety and that of the children come first.
3. If the fire is larger, or if the smoke makes it difficult to determine the fire location, evacuate the
area and report to the evacuation area.
4. When possible the Center Director shall notify the Regional Director and facility landlord of the
situation.
Procedures for Conducting a Fire Drill
1. Inform the staff in advance - the Center Director informs the staff that there will be a fire drill
later in the day/week.
2. Staff members talk to the children about the drill - Teachers talk to the children in their
classroom about the bell/alarm, rules for exiting and where to go.
3. Evacuate the building - When the alarm goes off:
Teachers count their children and take attendance sheets and first aid kits with them. No one can stop
for coats or any other personal items.

Evacuating All Other Children: Teachers count their children and leave the building in groups,
taking attendance sheets and first aid kits. No one can stop for coats or any other personal
item. Everyone should go outside to the designated area. Once outside recount children to
confirm that al are present.
4. The Center Director: Checks bathrooms, closets, and “hiding places” for lost children and for
possible sources of smoke or fire during a real alarm. Retrieves files of parent/guardian names
and phone numbers and daily attendance log.
5. Time the Drill: The Center Director times the drill to determine how long it takes to vacate the
building.
6. Verify Accurate Recount: The Center Director checks with each group to verify an accurate
recount of all persons.
7. Return to Building: The Center Director gives the approval to return to the building. The Center
Director and other staff help with the infants/toddlers.
8. Document Fire Drill: The Center Director completes written documentation of the fire drill in
the Fire Drill Log that contains the specifics of the drill: time, date, amount of time to vacate
building, location of fire, number of children and number of staff present at time of drill.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Hazardous materials are substances that are flammable, combustible, explosive, toxic, noxious,
corrosive, oxidizable, an irritant or radioactive.
If a hazardous materials accident occurs within close proximity of the Center, notify the fire department
and follow safety directions. Be prepared to evacuate or shelter in place.
BOMB THREATS, THREATENING PHONE CALL, OR MESSAGE
Calls of a threatening nature should be recorded as accurately as possible and reported to police.
Depending on the nature of the call, appropriate action should be taken to protect the lives and
property, including evacuation. If possible, record the threatening message carefully with attention to
details. If caller ID is operational, record the telephone number. Notify police immediately. Get advice
from the local police to help determine how to handle the situation. See attachment: Bomb Threat
Report Form
SUSPICIOUS ARTICLE
Evidence of a suspicious article, package or letter should be reported to the Center Director
immediately. Communication to police is advised. Do not touch or attempt to move the article unless
instructed to do so by police. Follow advice of police to determine appropriate procedures to take within
the Center. Relocate children to an area a safe distance away from the suspicious article or item.
POTENTIALLY VIOLENT SITUATIONS
A potentially violent situation, i.e. hostage situation, disgruntled person, unstable custody may be cause
for a selective evacuation procedure. The premise behind a selective evacuation is that it enables large
numbers of children and staff to move out of harms way when an individual is on site who is potentially
violent.
If a potentially violent person gains access to the facility and then leaves:
1. Immediately call 911
2. Indicate to the Center Director that you may have a condition for a selective evacuation (this
may be within the building if the person does not leave the area). If you have any reason to
believe the individual has a weapon, order a selective evacuation from non affected areas (this
may be another room within the facility)
3. If the individual cannot be isolated and chooses to leave the premises, allow them the freedom
to exit making sure to note the car make and model, license plate and the direction of travel.
Communicate this immediately to 911.
Note: If the individual is leaving and taking a child or staff member, it is still often better to let the
individual leave rather than prompt a confrontation that would increase the risk of injury.
If a potentially violent individual gains access to the facility and remains:
1. Immediately call 911 and seek advice on how to handle the situation.
2. Indicate to the Center Director that you may have a condition for selective evacuation. If you
have any reason to believe the individual has a weapon, order a selective evacuation, if possible.
3. Try to isolate the potential aggressor, from as may adults and children as possible. Seek to draw
the individual to the office, break room, conference, or other less populated space. If the
individual has entered a classroom, seek to draw him to the least utilized portion of the room.
4. If comfortable doing so, engage the potential aggressor in agreeable conversation to de-escalate
the situation.
5. Remain calm and be polite.
6. Do not physically restrain or block their movements.
7. While you are engaging the person, other available persons should direct unaffected classrooms
to move to another location within the facility that are farthest away from the incident point
and at best lockable. This selective evacuation should proceed from room to room and as
orderly and quietly as possible, being careful to use routes not visible to the incident point.
8. The other administrative personnel should make sure no other individuals, other than
emergency personnel, enter the space where you have isolated the violent individual.
9. Once the police arrive they will take over the situation, negotiate and dictate further
movements.
10. If a decision is made to relocate to the alternate site while negotiations are ongoing, follow the
appropriate evacuation procedures.
RANDOM ACTS OF VIOLENCE
If the Center is affected by random acts of violence (drive by shooting) implement the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Remain calm
Notify Director and activate the duress signal and/or immediately call 911
Staff members will alert other staff members of the problem
Alerted staff members will close the doors of their areas of responsibility and have the children
lay on the floor
5. Brief the police of the situation when they arrive
6. Notify the Regional Director and landlord of the incident
DISGRUNTLED EMPLOYEES, PARENTS/GUARDIANS, OR OTHERS
In the event of having to deal with employees, parents/guardians or others, implement the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Remain calm.
Remain polite.
Activate the duress signal and/or immediately call 911.
Staff members who observe the problem will immediately go to the nearest phone and call 911.
Staff will alert the Center Director and other staff members of the problem.
Alerted staff members will close the doors to their areas of responsibility.
If the disgruntled individual’s child is immediately known move the child to another room, out of
sight.
8. Turn the child over to parent/guardian or authorized person in accordance to Center policy.
9. Report the incident to the Regional Director.
IMPAIRED EMPLOYEES, PARENTS/GUARDIANS, OR OTHERS
If you have reasonable cause to suspect that any person picking up a child is under the influence of
alcohol or drugs, or is physically or emotionally impaired in any way and may endanger a child, you may
have cause to refuse to release the child. If so request that another adult be called to pick up the child or
call the phone numbers listed on the emergency contact.
In the event of having to deal with employees, parents/guardians or others, implement the following:
1. Remain calm.
2. Remain polite.
3. If the person becomes agitated and/or confrontational, activate the duress signal and/or
immediately call 911.
4. Staff members who observe the problem will immediately go to the nearest phone and call 911.
5. Staff will alert the Center Director and other staff members of the problem.
6. Alerted staff members will close the doors to their areas of responsibility.
7. If the individual’s child is immediately known move the child to another room, out of sight.
8. Turn the child over to the other parent/guardian or authorized person in accordance to Center
policy.
9. Report the incident to the Regional Director.
HOSTAGE SITUATIONS
Although considered improbable, the Center may be subject to hostage situations either from
disgruntled employees, parents/guardians or others. In the event of a hostage situation:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Remain calm.
Follow the hostage takers instructions.
Do not resist.
ANY available staff member will activate the duress signal and immediately call 911.
Staff members will alert the Director and other staff members of the problem if time permits.
DO NOT PUT YOURSELF IN DANGER.
6. Alerted staff members will close the doors to their areas of responsibility.
7. If staff members believe it is safe, evacuate the children from the Center, moving in the opposite
direction from the incident. Report the incident to the Regional Director immediately.
PERIMETER ISSUES
Administrative Procedures for Playground Clearance, i.e. protest/riot, toxic spill, sniper, suspicious
parked vehicles, loiters
1. Call local authorities to investigate the situation and consult with them to determine the level of
potential crisis.
2. If the situation is of marginal concern or greater, require that the Center remain inside.
Immediately require any groups to come inside.
3. Lower blinds to further obscure visibility and consider bringing those classrooms in the direct
line of sight into the “core” of the building or another classroom/area until the situation is
resolved.
4. Be prepared to fully evacuate the building should emergency services make this request.
Consider whether existing evacuation routes will suffice or if an alternate route must be taken
due to the location of the incident. Make staff aware is an alternate route is necessary.
5. Coordinate your actions with the local authorities and any other support services based on the
nature of the incident.
MISSING CHILD
1. Immediately notify the police by calling 911 once an initial search of the building has been made
and rapid attempts have been made to confirm whether or not a family member may have
picked up the child.
2. Conduct a search of all areas of the facility, including closets, cabinets, etc. and the immediate
surrounding area.
3. Make all other required notifications, Regional Director, Parent/guardians, emergency contacts.
4. Continue searching while waiting for the police.
5. The Director is to remain at the Center as the point person and to gather
information/description of the child to share with authorities.
Conclusion of Emergency Situations
Parents will be notified through telephone contact and by announcements posted at the site, online
and on local television stations of the status of the emergency situation. Upon conclusion of the
emergency, parents/guardians will be instructed on where and how to pick-up their child by means of
an announcement through local television stations, a telephone call from designated staff or a posting
on the building indicating where parents/guardians should retrieve their child.
Part III
Supporting Documents
NOTIFICATION PHONE LIST
NAME/CENTER/OFFICE/AGENCY
Facility Director
TELEPHONE #
Regional Director
Staff Roster
See Attached
School
County Emergency Services
911
Municipal Emergency Services
911
Day Care Center Relocation Facility
Today’s Child Learning Centers
Corporate Office
1016 Maple Avenue
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
Facility Transportation Providers
(610) 583-2273
Today’s Child Transportation Department
American Red Cross
(215) 299-4000
23rd and Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Disaster Services
Parent/ Guardian Roster
(215) 299-4889
See Attached
If it becomes necessary to relocate the children to a safer location, the following transportation will
be used.
Number of children/staff who will need to be moved
Amount of supplies/records that will need to be moved: A FEW BOXES
Transportation Provide
FACILITY LAYOUT AND ASSEMBLY AREA
Please see attached floor plans for the facility located at
EVACUATION PLAN MAP TO RELOCATION CENTER
DRAWING OF EVACUATION ROUTE FROM
To all Today’s Child Parents and Guardians:
This letter is to inform you of our concern for the safety and welfare of children attending Today’s Child
Learning Center at Aston Elementary School. Our emergency plan provides for response to all types of
emergencies. Depending on the circumstance of the emergency, we will use one of the following
protective actions:
Immediate Evacuation – Students are evacuated to an area that is a safe distance from the building
In-place Sheltering – Sudden occurrences, weather or hazardous material related, may dictate that
taking cover inside the building is the best immediate response.
Evacuation – Total evacuation of the facility may become necessary if there is danger in the area. In this
case, children will be taken to a relocation facility at __________________________________________.
Modified Operation – May include cancellation/postponement or rescheduling of normal activities.
These actions are normally taken in case of a winter storm or building problems (such as utility
disruptions) that make it unsafe for children but may be necessary in a variety of situations.
Please listen to KYW News Radio 1060 for announcements related to any of the emergency actions
above or visit our website at www.todayschild.us for up to the minute announcements.
We ask that you not call during an emergency. This will keep the main telephone line free to make
emergency calls and relay information.
The form designating persons to whom your child may be released will be used in situations such as
those noted above. Please ensure that only those persons you list on the form can pick up your child. I
specifically urge you not to make different arrangements during an emergency as it could create
confusion and divert staff from their assigned emergency duties.
In order to assure the safety of your children and our staff, I ask your understanding and cooperation. A
copy of our Emergency Plan is located in the Parent Information area of our classroom. Please feel free
to familiarize yourself with the document. Should you have any additional questions regarding our
emergency operations please speak with the Director at the center or call me at 610-583-2273 ext 126.
Sincerely,
Director
I, _________________________________, authorize Today’s Child Learning Center to release my
child(ren) to the person(s) designated. This is in consonance with the Today’s Child Learning Center
Emergency Operations Plan.
Student’s Name
Designated Custodian(s)
Name and Relationship
____________________________
______________________________
____________________________
______________________________
____________________________
______________________________
____________________________
______________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Your Signature
Relationship
Date
_________________________________________________________________________
Print Name
_________________________________________________________________________
Address
_________________________________________________________________________
Address
Home Phone __________________ Work__________________ Cell_________________
NOTE: Parents and Guardians should designate themselves as designated
Friends, neighbors and other relatives may also be designated.
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY
EMERGENCY KITS AND SUPPLIES
CENTER EMERGENCY KIT
o
COPIES OF ALL CONTACT LISTS
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
For families and staff, include the name, phone number, and e-mail as well as
information for someone preferably out-of-state, at least out of the immediate area.
Phone numbers and e-mails for your Sponsor liaison and /or immediate Supervisor.
FLASHLIGHTS WITH EXTRA BATTERIES
o
Long-life, emergency flashlights
BATTERY OPERATED RADIO AND EXTRA BATTERIES
o
AM/FM, Weather Band/TV Band
MANUAL CAN-OPENER
FIRST AID KIT
o
Add gloves and Kleenex
NOTEPAD AND PENS/PENCILS
SCISSORS
HAND SANITIZER AND CLEANING AGENT/DISINFECTANT
WHISTLE
DISPOSABLE CUPS
WET WIPES
IN THE CENTER IN GENERAL
o
o
CHARGED CELL PHONE
ONE GALLON OF WATER FOR EVERY FOUR CHILDREN AND STAFF
o
o
o
DISPOSABLE CUPS
NON-PERSIHABLE FOOD ITEMS i.e. soft granola bars, cereal, cheese and crackers, cans of fruit
and special infant items, etc – all nut free
EXTRA SUPPLIES OF CRITICAL MEDICATION i.e. insulin, epi-pens, for children and staff