Page 8 - Emergency Protocol Booklet_2020_Singles

Extreme Cold
Title Weather

In extreme cold weather conditions, especially during the winter, it
is imperative for staff to stay alert and mindful of the individuals and
their surroundings. If temperatures within a facility, particularly
within an EPIC home, reach 55 degrees then staff should abide by
the following protocol:

Note * Under NO CIRCUMSTANCE should an oven or
space heater be used to warm a facility. To do so could
potentially put the individuals and staff at risk of harm.

• Assess the health and safety of the individuals within the home.
 If individual(s) shows signs of health and/or safety
Protocols  If individuals do not show signs where there is risk to
risks and is in immediate danger, call 911 and follow
agency reporting protocol.

their health and safety then staff should immediately
contact their PA/Immediate Supervisor to inform
him/her of the situation. If unreachable after 2
attempts within a 5 minute span, make calls us-
ing the chain of command.

• Staff should begin layering the individuals with heavier clothing
to combat the coldness

• Staff should start preparing for evacuation (including checking
the Go Kits, pulling medication, books and face sheets for each
individual) as a precaution.
• The PA/Immediate Supervisor should contact the Facilities
Director and report the issue.
• The Facilities Director or designee will contact a vendor from
the preferred vendor list.
The time of completion for the above steps should take
no longer than 30 minutes.

• If the temperature within the facility remains or falls below
55 degrees for 2 hours then staff will instantly evacuate.