Emergency Preparedness & Response
Purpose
Prepare for emergencies by developing written plans, maintaining emergency supplies, practicing emergency procedures, and responding confidently to situations that affect the health and safety of children in care.
Emergencies can occur without warning, making preparation one of the most important responsibilities of a Family Child Care provider. Developing emergency plans before they are needed helps reduce confusion, supports timely decision-making, and provides reassurance to both children and families during stressful situations.
Emergency preparedness is an ongoing process that includes maintaining current emergency information, reviewing procedures regularly, practicing emergency drills, and ensuring emergency supplies remain complete and accessible. Preparedness also includes communicating emergency procedures with enrolled families so everyone understands what to expect should an emergency occur.
While every emergency is different, thoughtful planning and routine practice help transform emergency procedures into familiar routines that support calm, organized responses when they are needed most.
Emergency Planning
Every Family Child Care business should maintain a written emergency plan that outlines procedures for responding to a variety of emergency situations.
Emergency plans should include procedures for:
- Fire
- Earthquakes
- Severe weather
- Power outages
- Utility failures
- Shelter-in-place
- Evacuation
- Medical emergencies
- Hazardous materials
- Family reunification
Review emergency plans annually and update them whenever there are changes to the home environment, emergency contacts, enrollment, or business operations.
Emergency Supplies Checklist
| Category | Recommended Supplies | Business Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| First Aid | First aid kit, gloves, emergency medications, emergency contact information, and basic medical supplies. | Inspect first aid supplies monthly and replace expired items immediately. |
| Food & Water | Bottled water and nonperishable food for children and adults. | Rotate emergency food and water supplies annually. |
| Communication | Battery-powered radio, flashlight, batteries, emergency contact lists, portable phone charger, and whistle. | Store duplicate emergency contact information with emergency supplies. |
| Infant Supplies | Formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, blankets, and comfort items when applicable. | Adjust emergency kits based on the ages of children currently enrolled. |
| Sanitation | Paper towels, tissues, plastic bags, hand sanitizer, and hygiene supplies. | Maintain sanitation supplies sufficient for extended shelter-in-place situations. |
Emergency Drills
Regular drills help children become familiar with emergency procedures while allowing Family Child Care providers to evaluate and strengthen emergency plans.
Practice drills should be conducted calmly, using reassuring language that helps children build confidence rather than worry.
Emergency Drill Schedule
| Drill | Recommended Practice | Business Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Drill | Conduct and document fire drills according to Community Care Licensing requirements. | Practice multiple evacuation routes throughout the year. |
| Earthquake Drill | Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” followed by evacuation when appropriate. | Review earthquake procedures seasonally with enrolled children. |
| Evacuation | Practice safely relocating children to designated meeting locations. | Carry attendance records and emergency contact information during every drill. |
| Shelter-in-Place | Practice procedures for remaining safely indoors during emergencies. | Review procedures with assistants and substitutes before they provide care. |
| Documentation | Record dates, observations, participation, and needed improvements. | Use drill documentation to strengthen future emergency planning. |
Emergency Communication
Communication is an important part of emergency preparedness. Families should understand emergency procedures before they are needed and know how communication will occur during an emergency.
Maintain:
- Current emergency contact information
- Emergency authorization forms
- Family reunification procedures
- Emergency communication plans
- Backup methods of communication when possible
Review emergency communication procedures with enrolled families annually and whenever policies are updated.
Emergency Evacuation
Every Family Child Care provider should establish designated evacuation locations and practice safely moving children from the home.
Evacuation plans should identify:
- Primary evacuation routes
- Secondary evacuation routes
- Designated meeting locations
- Attendance procedures
- Transportation plans if relocation becomes necessary
Business Connection
Emergency preparedness is an investment in the safety of children, the confidence of families, and the continuity of a Family Child Care business. Written plans, routine practice, organized emergency supplies, and clear communication help reduce risk while demonstrating professionalism and a commitment to protecting children during unexpected situations.
Promote children’s health by implementing safe food purchasing, storage, preparation, service, and sanitation practices that reduce the risk of foodborne illness, accommodate individual dietary needs, and support healthy mealtime experiences.
