FRANKLIN COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT (FCEM)

PREPAREDNESS MEASURES FOR SCHOOLS

AND CHILD CARE CENTERS

Schools, colleges and child care facilities need to prepare for a major disaster. In such an event, administrators and teachers will have to be self-sufficient--relying on their own resources to care for students and others until outside help is available days later. Schools, child care facilities, children and parents all need more information and education on preparedness measures. Here are a few things you may want to consider.

Things To Do:

• Conduct a "hazard hunt" to find non-structural hazards in classrooms and offices.

• Secure and anchor equipment and furniture-- including bookshelves, cabinets, computers, typewriters, water heaters, other gas appliances and lab equipment that may present a threat during an earthquake.

• Encourage all staff and students to participate in the planning process and to prepare a disaster plan for their families.

• Send information home to parents on the facility's emergency policies and procedures.

• Update information on "emergency notification cards."

• Conduct in-service training workshops on first aid, shelter management, damage assessment and other related topics for the staff.

• Dedicate a special class or assembly to address the effects of disasters and the importance of proper preparation.

• Display preparedness information in high traffic areas.

• Assemble preparedness kits which include important safety information and first aid supplies.

• Know the safest place in each room. Identify the locations of all exits, utility shut-off valves/switches, and storage sites for emergency supplies and equipment.

• Know how, where and when to evacuate.

• Conduct drills to test emergency plans and procedures. Make sure you test communications systems, evacuation plans, search and rescue activities and first aid techniques.

• Conduct fund-raising activities to raise money for preparedness supplies and equipment.

Special Considerations:

• Infants will not understand or respond to emergency instructions. Therefore, you should place special emphasis on ensuring their environment is as safe as possible. For example, cribs should be placed away from untreated windows and tall unsecured bookcases and shelves that may slide or topple. At a minimum, store a three day supply of water, juices, formula, diapers, food, and clothing, Use strollers, wagons, and cribs with wheels to transport infants if evacuation is necessary.

• Toddlers may be able to understand simple emergency instructions. Some staff instruct younger children to take the drop, cover and hold position by using the command, "kiss your knees." Besides the supplies mentioned for infants, it is also a good idea to have plenty of toys available and activities planned to occupy their attention. Maintain an extra supply of diapers even though your toddlers may be potty trained.

• Children with special needs require all of the above, plus additional assistance. Include provisions in your plan for extra staff, parents and older children to help.