One nerve-wracking decision many facility administrators face during an emergency is whether to keep residents on site, or begin evacuations. When both options appear equally risky, it helps to take stock of the current locale and determine whether you have the necessary resources to provide adequate care for your residents. Make sure the facility’s security has not been compromised, and that backup power supplies are functioning properly. Review supplies, inventory medications, and make an account of all medical equipment. Survey staff to make sure you have enough hands on deck to meet all resident needs. Finally, consult with local agencies, including fire and police, to determine whether it is safer to stay or go. In some cases, the safest course of action is to transport residents and staff to another location. It is essential to establish in advance how relocation will be coordinated. Prioritize resident evacuation so that those with special needs can receive adequate medical attention during the move. Keep your list of relocation sites regularly updated, including transportation routes and contact information for ambulance and security services. Equally important is providing alternative transportation for offsite staff in the event an emergency restricts public transportation. Teri Marinko, senior vice president of customer engagement at Boston-based Benchmark Senior Living faced just that situation during the Boston Marathon Bombing when the city shut down public transit. As she told Caring.com, the takeaway lesson was clear, “During an emergency, it’s particularly important to make sure there is a plan to transport staff to the facility.” Keeping Contact It’s always a good idea to make the residents and their family aware of your safety procedures so that during times of crisis everyone understands what’s happening and how to make contact or gather additional information about residents. Mitigate...