Daycare Emergency Preparedness Guide 2026: Safety Planning
Complete guide to daycare emergency preparedness in 2026. What quality programs should have, evacuation plans, communication protocols, and questions to ask.
Quality daycares have comprehensive emergency plans for natural disasters, medical emergencies, lockdowns, and other crises. Understanding a program's preparedness helps ensure your child's safety.
Table of Contents
Essential Emergency Plans
Required Plans
| Emergency Type | Plan Elements | |----------------|---------------| | Fire | Evacuation routes, drills, assembly | | Severe weather | Shelter-in-place locations | | Medical | First aid, EMS contact, allergies | | Lockdown | Intruder response | | Natural disaster | Region-specific (earthquake, hurricane) | | Power outage | Backup procedures |
What Quality Looks Like
Strong programs have:
- Written emergency plans
- Regular drills (monthly fire, quarterly weather)
- Staff training
- Posted evacuation routes
- Emergency supplies
- Updated contact information
Evacuation Procedures
What Should Be in Place
| Element | Purpose | |---------|---------| | Primary evacuation route | Main exit path | | Secondary route | Backup if primary blocked | | Assembly point | Where children gather | | Headcount procedure | Ensuring all children accounted | | Evacuation crib | For infants who can't walk | | Go-bags | Emergency supplies ready |
Relocation Plan
| Component | What It Includes | |-----------|------------------| | Relocation site | Pre-identified location | | Transportation | How children will be moved | | Parent notification | How you'll be contacted | | Reunification | How to pick up children |
Communication Protocols
During Emergencies
| Method | Use | |--------|-----| | Text/app alert | Quick notification | | Phone call | Detailed information | | Website/social | Updates | | Local media | If severe |
Information You Need
| Item | Keep Updated | |------|--------------| | Emergency contacts | All numbers current | | Pickup authorization | Who can get your child | | Medical information | Allergies, conditions | | Your work address | For emergencies |
Questions to Ask
About Plans
- What emergency plans do you have?
- How often do you drill?
- Where is your evacuation site?
- How will I be notified?
- What supplies do you keep on hand?
About Training
- Are staff trained in first aid/CPR?
- What emergency training do staff receive?
- How do you handle medical emergencies?
- Are staff background checked?
About Security
- How is the building secured?
- Who can access the building?
- What is your visitor policy?
- What is your lockdown procedure?
What to Provide
Your Responsibilities
| Item | Purpose | |------|---------| | Current contact info | Reach you in emergency | | Authorized pickup list | Who can get your child | | Medical information | Allergies, medications | | Emergency contacts | Backup contacts | | Doctor information | Medical emergencies |
Red Flags
Concerning Signs
| Red Flag | Why It's Problematic | |----------|---------------------| | No written plans | Unprepared | | Infrequent drills | Children not practiced | | Untrained staff | Can't respond properly | | Unsecured building | Safety risk | | Outdated contacts | Can't reach parents |
Resources
Last updated: December 2025