When selecting a senior living community, one important factor to consider is the contingency plans that are in place for emergencies. Emergencies can include natural catastrophes, influenzas, fires, and other manmade disasters. At Mariposa, we have an emergency awareness plan in place to safeguard our residents. You can find out more about what it entails in this guide.
Types of Emergencies
All senior living communities should be prepared to handle a wide range of emergencies in an effective, organized and collaborative manner. These include:
- Natural disasters
- Influenza or viral outbreaks
- Power failures
- Equipment failures
- Geographical hazards
- Care-related emergencies
- Interruptions to communication, such as a cybersecurity breach
- Loss of facility and/or supplies
- … and more!
Our Commitment to Emergency Awareness
When an emergency breaks out, regardless of its specific nature, our residents’ first point of contact will be our staff members. To this end, all members of staff have been provided with the necessary training and testing that comply with both state and federal laws. On an annual or needs-must basis, ongoing training will be provided as well.
Viral Outbreaks
In the event of influenza or viral outbreak, which we have experienced recently with COVID-19, below are some of the emergency plans we have in place at Mariposa:
- Regular cleaning and sanitizing of common areas and high-touch points
- Screening for visitors
- Safety apparel & protective clothing provided for staff
- Limiting group sizes for activities and events
- Limiting visits from friends and family
- Working with healthcare partners to ensure that an adequate level of care can be given at any time
Natural Disasters
In the event of a natural catastrophe such as a flood, storm, or tornado, evacuation plans are in place to safeguard our residents. To prepare for such an eventuality, the procedures we have undertaken include:
- Planning an effective evacuation route for getting everyone out safely within the shortest possible time
- Coordinating with local agencies and partners to provide transportation, shelter, and supplies
- A communication plan to keep residents’ family members updated at all times
- Emergency backup supplies that include backup power sources, food, and medical supplies
Fire Safety
When a fire breaks out in your senior living community, you will want to have peace of mind that staff members have prepared for this eventuality and have emergency plans in place. You can be assured that at Mariposa, our senior living community abides by the safety regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as well as adhering to both local and state fire codes for material flammability. In the event of an emergency, evacuation routes are in place to ensure that residents can get out within the shortest possible time.
Make an Informed Decision
While the services and amenities a senior living community can provide are undoubtedly important, being aware of the emergency contingency plans they have in place is crucial as well. At Mariposa, we take our residents’ safety very seriously, and you can be assured that we have safety measures and emergency plans in place for every eventuality.