Emergency Preparedness Policy and Procedures
At Newleaf Learning & Childcare Centre, the safety of the children and staff is our highest priority. The centre maintains an Emergency Preparedness Plan to ensure that we are ready to respond effectively in the event of an emergency.
The centre keeps a fully stocked Emergency Preparedness Kit that contains sufficient supplies to support all children and staff for a minimum of 72 hours if necessary.
To ensure preparedness, the following drills are conducted regularly:
- Fire drills are practiced monthly
- Earthquake drills are practiced once a year
These drills help ensure that children and staff are familiar with emergency procedures and can respond quickly and safely.
Emergency Evacuation Procedures
In the event of an emergency requiring evacuation, the following procedures will be followed:
- Evacuation to Emergency Meeting Location
Children and staff will evacuate the centre and proceed to our designated emergency meeting location:
Central Valley Baptist Church
33393 Old Yale Road
Abbotsford, BC V2S 2J6
Phone: 604-850-3204
- Safe Transportation of Children
Wagons and strollers will be used to transport younger children safely to the emergency meeting location. Our first priority is to move children away from danger quickly and safely.
- Emergency Records and Supplies
Staff will take the Emergency Preparedness Kit, children’s emergency records, and attendance lists during evacuation. Each child will have an emergency card containing their name and Care Card number. Parents will be contacted for pick-up as soon as possible. A notice will be posted on the centre doors indicating the evacuation location.
- Out-of-Town Emergency Contact
In a large emergency, local phone lines may become overloaded. Parents may contact our out-of-town emergency contact if they are unable to reach the centre directly:
Navpreet Kaur Toor
Osoyoos, BC
Phone: 250-485-2632
This contact person can help relay information if communication systems are disrupted.
- Care for Children at the Emergency Location
While waiting for families to arrive, staff will ensure children remain safe, calm, and comfortable. The emergency kit includes toys and comfort items to help children remain engaged and feel secure. A First Aid Kit will also be available to provide first aid if necessary.
- Emergency Plan Review and Practice
The centre’s emergency procedures are reviewed and practiced regularly. The full emergency plan is tested at least once each year to ensure staff remain familiar with the procedures.
At Newleaf Learning & Childcare Centre, we are committed to maintaining a well-prepared environment so that children remain safe, supported, and cared for during any emergency situation.
Shelter-in-Place Procedures
(Earthquake, Severe Weather, or Environmental Emergency)
In certain emergency situations, it may be safer for children and staff to remain inside the centre rather than evacuate. Situations that may require shelter-in-place procedures include earthquakes, severe weather, environmental hazards, or community emergencies.
At Newleaf Learning & Childcare Centre, staff are trained to respond quickly and calmly to ensure the safety and well-being of all children.
Earthquake Procedures
In the event of an earthquake, staff and children will immediately follow the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” procedure:
- Drop to the ground
- Cover under sturdy furniture or protect the head and neck
- Hold On until the shaking stops
Educators will remain calm and guide children to safe locations away from windows, shelves, or heavy objects that could fall.
After the shaking stops, staff will:
- Check children for injuries
- Provide first aid if necessary
- Assess the building for safety
- Follow evacuation procedures if the building is not safe
Shelter-in-Place Procedures
If it is determined that it is safest to remain inside the building, staff will:
- Bring children indoors immediately if they are outside
- Secure all entrances and ensure the building is safe
- Take attendance to ensure all children are accounted for
- Keep children calm and engaged with quiet activities
- Use emergency supplies if needed
Staff will continue to monitor the situation and follow guidance from local emergency services and authorities.
Communication with Families
Parents will be notified as soon as it is safe to do so. Communication may occur through phone calls, the centre communication app, or posted notices depending on the circumstances.
Children will remain under the care and supervision of staff until parents or authorized guardians are able to safely pick them up.
At Newleaf Learning & Childcare Centre, our goal is to ensure that children remain safe, calm, and cared for during any emergency situation through preparation, training, and clear procedures.