Clinic Plan: Wildfires

Wildfires pose a serious threat not only to communities but also to healthcare facilities that must safeguard vulnerable patients while maintaining continuity of care. Because these events can escalate quickly and affect air quality, transportation, and building safety, it is essential for LifeCare to have a clear, proactive plan of action. This response plan outlines the steps LifeCare will take to prepare for regional wildfire risks, protect patients and staff during an active threat, and ensure recovery and continuity of services once the danger has passed.

 

INITIATE SHELTER-IN-PLACE PROTOCOL

• Announce calmly and clearly: “Severe weather—please move to the designated safe area

• Direct patients, staff, and visitors to designated safe zones (interior rooms, hallways, away from windows).  Therapists will assist patients with mobility limitations.  

• Office staff will shut down electrical equipment.

 DURING THE EVENT

• The OPT Administrator will maintain the Patient/Visitor Log.

• Weather conditions will be monitored. 

• LifeCare will follow the instructions of emergency personnel to shelter in place or to evacuate.

IMMEDIATE POST-EVENT ACTIONS

• Safety Assessment will be completed.  Staff will check for injuries among patients and staff; administer first aid if trained; and call 911 for serious injuries.

• The facility will be inspected for structural damage, downed power lines, flooding, or fire hazards. Areas deemed unsafe will not be re-entered until cleared.

• Patient families will be notified of the patient's safety status.

• Local emergency management will be contacted if evacuation or rescue is needed.

Whenever possible, LifeCare will evacuate all persons to Tamarac Elementary School, which is our designated shelter.