Introduction

Your Way Inc, is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children, families, staff, and volunteers during emergencies. This procedure outlines the steps to be taken in the event of various emergencies to protect lives, minimize harm, and ensure a swift response.

Policy Statement

Your Way Inc, aims to be prepared for emergencies by having clear procedures, trained personnel, and appropriate resources in place. This emergency procedure is designed to provide guidance on responding effectively to emergencies and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.

Scope

This procedure applies to all staff, volunteers, children, families, visitors, and partners of Your Way Inc. It covers all premises, programs, activities, and events organized by or affiliated with the organization.

This emergency procedure ensures that Your Way Inc is prepared to respond effectively to emergencies, safeguarding the lives and well-being of children, families, staff, and volunteers.

Objectives

• To provide clear instructions for responding to emergencies.
• To ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals during emergencies.
• To comply with relevant laws and regulations regarding emergency preparedness and response.
• To facilitate coordination with emergency services and external agencies.

Types of Emergencies Covered

• Fire
• Medical emergencies
• Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, floods)
• Security threats (e.g., intruders, violent incidents)
• Missing children
• Evacuation procedures

 

General Emergency Response Principles

1. Safety First: The primary concern in any emergency is the safety and well-being of children, families, staff, and volunteers.
2. Stay Calm: Remaining calm and composed helps in effectively managing the situation.
3. Follow Procedures: Adhering to established procedures ensures a coordinated and effective response.
4. Communication: Clear and prompt communication is vital during emergencies.

Emergency Procedures

1. Fire Emergency

1. • Detection: If you see smoke or fire, or hear the fire alarm, activate the nearest fire alarm if not already triggered.
   • Evacuation:
     • Immediately evacuate the building using the nearest safe exit.
     • Do not use elevators.
     • Assist children and individuals with disabilities.
     • Gather at the designated assembly point outside the building.
     • Conduct a headcount to ensure everyone is accounted for.
   • Firefighting: Only attempt to use a fire extinguisher if the fire is small, you are trained, and it is safe to do so.
   • Reporting:
     • Call emergency services (911 or local fire department).
     • Notify the Executive Director and Safeguarding Officer.
   • Post-Evacuation:
     • Do not re-enter the building until it is declared safe by authorities.
     • Provide first aid if needed and wait for emergency services.

2. Medical Emergencies

1. • Assessment: Assess the situation to determine the severity of the medical emergency.
   • Immediate Action:
     • Call emergency services (911) for severe injuries or life-threatening conditions.
     • Provide first aid if trained and safe to do so.
     • Stay with the injured or ill person until help arrives.
   • Notification:
     • Inform the Executive Director and Safeguarding Officer.
     • Notify the individual’s emergency contact (e.g., parent, guardian).
   • Documentation:
     • Complete an incident report detailing the medical emergency and actions taken.

3. Natural Disasters

1. • Earthquakes:
     • Drop, cover, and hold on. Take shelter under sturdy furniture and protect your head and neck.
     • Stay indoors until shaking stops.
     • Evacuate if the building is unsafe, following the evacuation procedure.
   • Floods:
     • Move to higher ground immediately.
     • Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
     • Follow evacuation orders from authorities.
   • Other Natural Disasters:
     • Follow specific guidelines issued by emergency services for other types of natural disasters (e.g., tornadoes, hurricanes).

4. Security Threats

1. • Intruders:
     • Lock doors and windows to prevent entry.
     • Call emergency services (911) and provide detailed information.
     • Follow lockdown procedures if applicable.
   • Violent Incidents:
     • Ensure personal safety by distancing yourself and others from the threat.
     • Call emergency services (911) and provide detailed information.
     • Follow instructions from law enforcement.
   • Bomb Threats:
     • Evacuate the building following fire evacuation procedures.
     • Call emergency services (911) and provide detailed information.
     • Do not touch suspicious objects.

5. Missing Children

1. • Immediate Action:
     • Conduct a quick search of the premises and surrounding area.
     • Notify the Executive Director and Safeguarding Officer immediately.
     • Call emergency services (911) if the child is not found within a few minutes.
   • Communication:
     • Inform the child’s parent or guardian as soon as possible.
     • Provide authorities with a description of the child, what they were wearing, and any other relevant information.
   • Documentation:
     • Complete an incident report detailing the circumstances and actions taken.

6. Evacuation Procedures

• • Alarm Activation:
    • Activate the alarm if necessary (fire, bomb threat, etc.).
  • Evacuation Route:
    • Follow the designated evacuation routes posted throughout the premises.
    • Assist children and individuals with disabilities.
    • Ensure all rooms and areas are evacuated.
  • Assembly Point:
    • Gather at the designated assembly point.
    • Conduct a headcount to ensure everyone is accounted for.
  • Re-entry:
    • Do not re-enter the building until it is declared safe by authorities.

Communication During Emergencies

1. Internal Communication:
   • Use designated communication channels (e.g., intercom, radios) to relay information quickly and clearly.
   • Ensure all staff and volunteers are informed of the situation and their roles.
2. External Communication:
   • Notify emergency services immediately.
   • Inform parents, guardians, and other relevant parties as soon as it is safe and practical to do so.
   • Provide regular updates as the situation evolves.

Training and Drills

1. Training:
   • Provide regular emergency response training for all staff and volunteers.
   • Ensure training covers all types of emergencies outlined in this procedure.
2. Drills:
   • Conduct regular drills (e.g., fire drills, lockdown drills) to practice and reinforce emergency procedures.
   • Review and assess the effectiveness of drills, making improvements as necessary.

Review and Updates

This emergency procedure will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practices, and organizational needs.