How often must Fire and Disaster Drills be conducted and documented?

Fire and Disaster Drills in a Family Child Care Home (FCCH) must be conducted and documented every six months. This requirement is crucial as it ensures that all individuals in the home, including children and caregivers, are familiar with emergency procedures and can respond appropriately in the case of a fire or disaster situation. Regular drills help reinforce safety protocols, enhance preparedness, and build confidence among everyone involved.

Conducting these drills semi-annually strikes a balance between ensuring safety and managing the frequency of the drills within the context of child care routines. This timeframe is generally considered effective for maintaining readiness while not being overly burdensome, allowing caregivers to focus on other aspects of child care. The documentation of these drills also serves as critical evidence that safety practices are being actively maintained and can be reviewed by regulatory agencies.