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Fire drills

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): Fire Drills

Purpose:
To ensure the safety of all children and staff through the consistent, timely, and efficient execution of fire drill protocols as required by the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

Scope:

This procedure applies to all staff, children, and visitors present at Young Innovators Academies during regular operating hours.

Responsibility:

  • All Staff are responsible for knowing evacuation routes, accounting for children, and calmly executing fire drill procedures.

  • Directors/Administrators are responsible for scheduling, documenting, and reviewing fire drills monthly.

Frequency:

  • Fire drills are conducted monthly.

  • Drills are unannounced and may occur any time during the day, including mealtime and nap-time.

Procedure:

  1. When the Alarm Sounds:

    • Treat every alarm as an actual emergency.

    • Remain calm and instruct children to line up quietly and quickly.

    • Do not stop to collect personal belongings.

  2. Evacuation:

    • Follow the exit plan posted in your classroom or area.

    • Take the Fire Drill Log from your door with the current roster of children.

    • Perform a face-to-name check as you exit to ensure every child is present.

    • If you are in a shared space:

      • Cafeteria: Exit through front lobby doors or Atelier door.

      • Playground or outdoor spaces: Proceed directly to designated safe zones.

  3. At the Designated Assembly Point:

    • Conduct another face-to-name check.

    • Wait for the “All Clear” from Administration before re-entering the building.

    • Keep children calm and engaged (e.g., singing songs or storytelling if age-appropriate).

  4. After the Drill:

    • Document the drill on your daily sheets.

    • Post a notice on your classroom door informing parents that a fire drill occurred.

    • Discuss any concerns or issues with the Director during daily debriefs if necessary.

Additional Notes:

  • Staff must familiarize themselves with all exit routes for their assigned classroom and any other room they may work in.

  • In the event of a real fire, follow the same procedures but do not return to the building until emergency services confirm it is safe.

  • Ensure children are wearing appropriate footwear for quick and safe evacuation during all hours of care.

 

Compliance & Review:

  • Fire drill procedures must align with DCF and local fire authority regulations.

  • The Director will review drill effectiveness monthly and provide feedback or retraining if necessary.