Policy - Emergency Procedures

Section: Human Resource Procedure 
Procedure Owner: Ignition633 Ministries Nigeria Human Resources  
Procedure Name: Emergency Procedure 
Origination Date: December 2024

Purpose
To ensure the safety and well-being of children and staff during unexpected situations, such as accidents, natural disasters, medical emergencies, or security threats. It provides clear guidelines for responding promptly and effectively, minimizing risks, and protecting lives.

Scope
Includes guidelines for handling various emergency situations, such as medical incidents, fire outbreaks, natural disasters, and security threats. It covers roles and responsibilities of staff during emergencies, communication protocols, evacuation plans, first aid administration, and coordination with emergency services.

Definition
Emergency: is an unexpected and urgent situation that requires immediate action to prevent harm, injury, or damage. 
Procedure: is a set of step-by-step instructions or actions designed to accomplish a specific task or handle a particular situation in an organized and consistent manner.

Emergency Procedure
Our campus has regular Fire, Lock-down, Lock-in Drills, and Threat Drills. Here are specifics for ensuring your class is safe in the event of an emergency:

Preparation
You may not be informed before drills are carried out. It is essential always to be prepared for drills. Please ensure you are familiar with the evacuation procedures and designated meeting points, including where the nearest exits are located.

Communication
Clearly and calmly communicate the start of the drill to the children, using age-appropriate language to explain the purpose and steps of the drill.

Incorporate Learning
Use fire drills to educate children about fire safety in an age-appropriate manner.

Regular Maintenance
Regularly check and maintain fire safety equipment to ensure it is in working order. Regularly report any issues with properly closing and locking doors and windows.

Review Emergency Contact
Please confirm that emergency contact information for children is up-to-date. Be prepared to communicate with parents or guardians as soon as it is safe to do so.

Keep Doorways Accessible
 Keep all exits unobstructed; items should never block the doorways or windows and be easily accessible.

Fire Drill
Evacuation
Instruct all children to line up quickly and quietly. Lead Staff children to evacuate the building calmly and promptly. The lead teacher should be in front of the line, while another teacher should follow in the back of the line.

Designated Meeting Point
The meeting location is outside the gate by the chicken coop. Please make sure all students remain in a straight and tidy line.

Headcount
Conduct a headcount to account for all children and staff. If someone is missing, please let emergency personnel know immediately.

Prevent Re-Entry
Under no circumstances should childcare givers allow anyone, including themselves, to reenter the building until authorities have declared it safe.

Lock-Down
Lock Doors
Securely lock all doors and windows, including curtains, to prevent visibility from the outside. Ensure that doors are locked and not open until the situation is declared safe.

Silence Communication
Instruct the children to remain quiet and refrain from using electronic devices emitting noise or light that could attract attention.

Account for Children
Take a headcount to ensure all children are accounted for. Keep this headcount updated throughout the drill.

Communication
 Communicate with the children about remaining quiet and following instructions during the lockdown. Explain that they should stay in the designated secure area until an "all-clear" signal is given.

Remain Vigilant
Continue to monitor the situation and listen for updates or instructions from authorities. Follow any additional guidance provided.

Lock-in-Drills
Stay Calm Maintain a calm and reassuring demeanor to calm the children and minimize anxiety. Let them know that the lock-in is a safety precaution.

Engage in Quiet Activities
Provide engaging, age-appropriate, and quiet activities to occupy the children during the lock-in. This can help keep them calm and distracted from any anxiety.

Maintain Communication
Stay vigilant and listen for any updates or instructions from authorities. Communicate with the children about the importance of staying quiet and following instructions.

Threat Evacuation Drill
Gathering Children
 Quickly and calmly gather all the children in your care and bring them to a designated vehicle outside.

Head count
Conduct regular head counts to ensure all children are accounted for. Once you have confirmed that all the children are safe in the vehicle, move outside to the designated area.

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This procedure will be reviewed annually and is subject to change. Any changes will be communicated to all employees promptly. 

For any questions or further assistance regarding this procedure, employees should contact the HR department at hr.nigeria@ignition633.org.