Emergency Preparedness in Texas Child Care: Storms, Tornadoes, Flooding and Power Outages - post

What hazards should Texas child care programs plan for?

Start by thinking about the risks most likely to affect your program. In Texas, common hazards include:

• severe storms and lightning
• tornadoes and high winds
• flooding and flash floods
• long power outages
• lockdowns or building safety concerns

A simple hazard map can help staff see where problems may happen. You can mark places where water may collect, where windows may be less safe during high winds, and which exits may be best during an emergency.

What should be in an emergency plan?

A good emergency plan should be short, clear, and easy for staff to follow. It should explain who does what and what steps to take in different situations.

Your plan should include:

• staff roles and responsibilities
• evacuation steps
• shelter-in-place steps
• lockdown procedures
• relocation plans
• parent communication steps
• reunification plans
• emergency records and medication information

It is also helpful to answer simple questions in your plan, such as:

• Who takes attendance during an emergency?
• Who brings medication or emergency forms?
• Where will children go if the building is not safe?
• How will parents be contacted?

Using simple words makes the plan easier for all staff to understand, including staff who may be non-native English speakers.

How can staff get ready before an emergency happens?

Emergency planning is not only about writing a plan. Staff need training and practice too. The more familiar your team is with the plan, the more calmly they can respond.

Programs should:

• train all staff when they are hired
• review the plan regularly
• practice drills during the year
• check emergency supplies often
• update family contact information

Go-bags are also an important part of preparation. These bags should be easy to reach and ready to grab. A go-bag may include:

• a printed child roster
• emergency contacts
• first aid supplies
• water and snacks
• medications if needed
• diapers or wipes for young children
• flashlights and batteries

What should staff do during storms, tornadoes, floods, or outages?

During an emergency, staff need to follow simple steps and stay calm.

During a tornado or high wind warning:

• move children to an interior room
• stay away from windows
• bring attendance sheets, first aid items, and medication
• keep children low and protected until the danger passes

During flooding:

• move children to higher ground if needed
• do not walk through flood water
• take go-bags if evacuation is needed
• protect records in waterproof containers if possible

During a power outage:

• use battery-powered lights
• avoid unsafe indoor power sources
• watch food safety and refrigerator temperatures
• be ready to relocate if the building becomes unsafe

Short checklists can help staff remember these steps quickly.

Why are drills and practice so important?

Practice helps staff respond faster. It also helps children feel more secure because adults know what to do.

Programs should hold regular drills and then talk about what happened after each one. Ask simple questions like:

• What went well?
• What was confusing?
• What needs to change?

Small improvements after each drill can make the whole plan stronger.

It is also a good idea to keep a record of drills. Write down:

• the date
• the type of drill
• who participated
• what worked
• what needs improvement

What are common mistakes to avoid?

Even good programs can miss simple things. Some common mistakes include:

• not updating parent phone numbers
• storing go-bags where staff cannot reach them quickly
• assuming staff know their roles without training
• forgetting to check supplies
• not reviewing the plan often enough

These problems are easy to fix with a simple checklist and regular reminders.

What are the best next steps for a Texas child care program?

The best way to start is by keeping things simple. Focus on a few important steps first:

• make a list of your biggest local hazards
• create or update your written emergency plan
• assign staff roles
• prepare a go-bag
• practice drills regularly
• review and update contact information

Emergency planning does not have to be complicated. A clear plan, trained staff, and ready supplies can help your program respond with confidence.

Helpful ChildCareEd links for this topic

If you want more support as you build your emergency plan, these ChildCareEd links can help:

Related Course

• Emergency and Disaster Preparedness

Related Article

• Texas Weather: Outdoor Time at Daycare

Related Resource

• Emergency Preparedness Plan for Child Care Providers and Child Care Centers

Conclusion

Texas child care programs need to be ready for severe weather and other emergencies. Storms, tornadoes, flooding, and power outages can affect programs at any time. A strong plan helps protect children, support staff, and build trust with families.

When programs use simple plans, clear roles, regular drills, and helpful training, they are better prepared for real emergencies. It is always a good idea to review state and local requirements and keep your plan updated throughout the year.