Why Every Daycare Needs an Emergency Plan

Emergencies can happen anytime—from earthquakes and fires to lockdowns or medical incidents. For daycare owners and childcare providers, a written emergency plan is essential not only for safety but also for licensing compliance and parental peace of mind.

This guide will walk you through the key components of a well-structured emergency plan for your daycare center.

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Key Components of a Daycare Emergency Plan

1. Risk Assessment

Before writing your plan, identify potential risks in your region (e.g., earthquakes in BC, tornadoes in Texas). Consider:

• Natural disasters

• Fire hazards

• Health emergencies

• Security threats

Document how likely each event is and what safety precautions are required.

2. Evacuation Procedures

Create a clear and simple step-by-step guide for evacuating the building.

• Designate exit routes and alternative paths

• Identify meeting points

• Assign roles (e.g., who grabs emergency kits, who counts children)

• Post maps in every room

3. Communication Protocols

Establish how staff will communicate during and after emergencies.

• Internal communication (walkie-talkies, text groups)

• External communication (parents, emergency responders)

• Template messages for SMS or email alerts

4. Emergency Contacts

Maintain an updated list of:

• Parents and guardians

• Staff emergency contacts

• Local emergency services

• Utility providers

Keep a printed and digital copy accessible to all staff.

5. Emergency Supplies

Stock and routinely check emergency kits that include:

• First aid supplies

• Bottled water and snacks

• Flashlights and batteries

• Blankets

• Copies of emergency contact info

6. Shelter-in-Place Plans

For scenarios where leaving the premises is dangerous, have a shelter-in-place strategy.

• Lock doors and windows

• Maintain calm with games or quiet time

• Keep emergency radios and ensure staff are trained in CPR

7. Staff Training & Drills

Practice makes perfect. Regular drills help ensure your team knows what to do under pressure.

• Conduct fire, earthquake, and lockdown drills quarterly

• Review the emergency plan in staff meetings

• Document all drills for licensing compliance

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How Often Should You Update Your Emergency Plan?

Review and update your emergency plan:

• Annually

• After any real emergency event

• When staff or facility changes occur

Notify parents of changes to the plan and consider including it in your welcome packages.

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Free Emergency Plan Templates & Resources

Here are a few helpful links to get you started:

• BC Child Care Emergency Preparedness Guide (https://blog.gov.bc.ca/app/uploads/sites/808/2024/06/Ministry-of-Education-and-Child-Care-Information-Package-Emergency-Management-2024-FINAL.pdf)

• DCYF Emergency Plan Template (https://dcyftraining.com/courses/common/resources/Sample-Emergency-Plan.pdf)

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Final Thoughts

Having an emergency plan is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a foundational part of running a safe, trusted childcare operation. Whether you're just opening your daycare or updating policies, using a comprehensive plan helps protect everyone in your care.

Looking for tools to help manage your daycare's policies and parent communication? Try ZuKeepr’s free platform for daycare managers.