Therapist Plan: Severe Weather with No Warning
Severe Weather Response Plan for Offsite Therapy Staff, including tornadoes, thunderstorms, and floods.
The following plan is for all staff when providing therapy in patients’ homes or assisted living facilities during tornadoes, thunderstorms, or other no‑warning weather emergencies such as a flood in an area. Because these events can occur with little or no warning, this plan aims to ensure the safety of our staff and patients.
Immediate Response
SITUATIONAL AWARENESS
Monitor weather alerts via mobile apps or NOAA radio during travel and sessions.
If a warning is issued while on-site, stop therapy immediately.
Request assistance if evacuation or medical transport is required.
Complete Incident Report
SHELTER IN PLACE
In a patient’s home: move to the safest interior space (bathroom, closet, hallway, away from windows).
In an ALF or other facility, follow the facility’s posted emergency procedures and staff directions.
PATIENT SAFETY
Assist patients with mobility limitations to reach safe areas quickly.
Use pillows, mats, or therapy cushions to protect heads and necks if needed.
COMMUNICATION
Calmly explain the situation to patients and caregivers.
Contact LifeCare once safe shelter is secured
During the Event
Remain with the patient until the condition stabilizes.
Provide reassurance and basic comfort measures.
Note time, location, and actions taken for later reporting.
Immediate Post-Event Actions
Assess patient and staff for injuries; call 911 if needed.
Check surroundings for hazards (broken glass, downed wires, flooding).
Do not attempt to drive through severe weather; seek shelter in a safe building.
Report patient status and location to LifeCare and complete Incident Report.
Patient Continuity
If therapy cannot resume, provide verbal or written home exercise instructions once safe.
If At a Facility
Follow Facility Protocols
Defer to facility staff for evacuation or sheltering procedures.
Support facility staff in moving residents to safe zones.
Notify LifeCare of Incident when safe to do so; complete Incident Report.
