Plain Speech/ Text: Snow Emergency Plan

______(facility name) Emergency ProcedureSNOW EMERGENCY

The purpose of these winter storm safety precautions is to inform staff of measures that should be taken during severe winter weather. The following winter storm safety precautions have been established for all personnel to follow during blizzards, heavy snow, freezing rain, ice storms, or sleet.

In Advance:

  1. Purchase portable/weather radio with extra batteries.
  2. Review Shelter-in-Place procedures and supplies
  3. Make sure emergency power supply is operable.
  4. Check emergency generator – Fueled? How much of facility is powered by generator? What is not included?
  5. Make sure emergency:
  6. equipment and supplies are on hand, or can be readily obtained
  7. food supplies and equipment are on hand.
  8. water supply is available.
  9. extra blankets are accessible.
  10. Plug critical equipment into surge protectors.
  11. Evaluate facility for potential dangers & complete needed adjustments.
  12. Identify potential fire hazards.
  13. Remove dead trees/limbs.
  14. Equip vehicles with chains/snow tires.
  15. Review policy about staff reporting to work during a winter weather event.
  16. Review policy with all staff prior to the winter weather event.
  17. Set up sleeping area for staff who can’t go home after storm hits, or for staff that report to work prior to the storm.
  18. Review transportation plan to get staff to and from work. Facility trucks/buses? Volunteers with 4-wheel drive vehicles? Staff that have 4-wheel drive vehicles?

Immediately prior and during storm:

  1. Keep posted on all area weather bulletins and relay to others.
  2. Be prepared for isolation at the community.
  3. Re-check heating system/emergency generator.
  4. Check emergency and alternate utility sources.
  5. Conserve utilities – maintain low temperatures consistent with health needs.
  6. Secure facility against frozen pipes.
  7. Retrieve extra blankets and keep residents as warm as possible.
  8. Make sure adequate staff is available.
  9. Keep flashlights handy, and extra batteries available.
  10. Close drapes on cloudy days and at night.
  11. Travel only when necessary, and only during daylight hours. Never travel alone. Travel only assigned routes.
  12. Be prepared to evacuate residents if necessary.
  13. Avoid unnecessary trips outside. If you must venture outside, make sure you are properly dressed, and fully covered.
  14. Avoid overexertion by doing only what is necessary. Cold weather strains the heart.
  15. Do not panic; remain calm.