When an emergency strikes, are you prepared?

Part of the mission of every adult day program should be to ensure safety of the persons entrusted to their care on a daily basis.  That task can easily become routine through implementing procedures such as monitoring devices to prevent elopement, wiping up spills to prevent falls and keeping cleaning products locked away when not in use.

Responding to non-medical emergencies has potential to involve multiple agencies beyond a routine call to 911 for emergency responders.  It is the responsibility of the adult day program to institute appropriate actions and procedures necessary to protect health, life and property. 

Emergencies can and will happen.  Having a plan on paper does not mean all will run smoothly when emergencies happen.  But adult day programs can maximize safety and minimize risk and loss by planning ahead and ensuring that everyone knows their roles and is equipped to fulfill their responsibilities.  This 28-page guide includes an assessment checklist with summary Checkpoints and Best Practices highlighted at the end of each section.

The author has extensive training in many aspects of Fire, EMS, and Emergency Management.  He has held certifications as a NC Emergency Medical Technician – Defibrillation, nationally licensed Emergency Medical Dispatcher, NC Emergency Management Coordinator Level I, NC Hazardous Materials – Level I,  NC Emergency Vehicle Driver certified, and NC Firefighter II certification.  Chris has received training throughout the state of North Carolina and from the National Fire Academy and National Emergency Management Institute in Emmitsburg, MD.

The approaches described in this Assessment and Planning Guide are recommendations, not regulations.  The guide should not be considered comprehensive or sufficient as training material for all emergency situations that may be encountered.  Following these principles does not ensure compliance with Federal, State or local codes or regulations that may apply to your facility.