Fire Safety Protocol

Fire Safety Protocol

 

Fire Safety Protocol

Please be aware that these are worst case scenario protocols and unlikely to be necessary. Last year (2021) was a terrible drought year resulting in multiple years without adequate snow and precipitation through the seasons. Already, this winter (2021-22) has surpassed the snow and precipitation of the past few years combined. The snowpack we’re amassing in the mountains is a beautiful gift that ensures our forests stay healthy and hydrated all summer long.

 

If a fire were to threaten MMR so as to require an evacuation, we would initiate our Evacuation Protocol early and with ample time to ensure the safe and calm evacuation of the camp family. We have close relationships with our head Lassen County Sheriff and Cal Fire chief and so would receive early updates from them should a fire become in any way a threat to MMR and our program. 

 

Evacuation Protocol:

  • When evacuation is deemed necessary by camp leadership, the camp family is informed and directed to remain calm and follow the evacuation protocol (that we go over on opening day of each session). Each group (activity or cabin) gathers and, staying together, goes to the designated meeting location (the parking lot) where we roll call and gather in cabin groups. Depending on the urgency, each cabin group returns to their lodgings and packs a bag for an overnight and the rest of their belongings in their suitcases/trunks/duffles/etc. before reassembling in the parking lot. We additionally pack essentials for food service, basic activities, tech and valuables, and medications. From there we transport the camp family and belongings to either Susanville (the Lassen Community College soccer field or Memorial Park) where we will set up camp while we coordinate next steps OR to the Reno-Tahoe Int’l Airport to better coordinate return home travel. If possible, staff are also designated to load all camper luggage on trailers and transport to our designated meeting location. Constant and thorough communication is maintained with you (the parent) every step of the way regarding the plan and specific location of evacuation. This is determined based on variables of the fire: road closure status, time of session, whether it will be a temporary (24-48hr) evacuation or long-term, if camper’s are returning home, etc. Regardless, we ensure the safety and well-being of your camper for the duration of their time with us until they can be safely returned to you or a designated guardian for pick-up. 
  • Our protocol is to stay cautious and evacuate early so to ensure the camp family feels calm, safe, and cared for throughout the process. Further, early evacuation allows for campers to obtain all of their belongings for an early departure for home.

 

Air Quality Protocol:

Air movement in our area is constant, this means that the likelihood of experiencing prolonged AQI at any level is rare. We have frequent wind and breeze, meaning seldom does anything linger too long around MMR; weather, smoke, etc. For those that like to check online AQI readers, please be aware that Susanville does not have it’s own AQI sensor and online readers pull data from surrounding areas (Reno, Quincy, Chester). MMR use their own advanced AQI sensor and senses to measure and respond to real-time air quality. 

 

We have very few intense activities that can not be downgraded to a less intense activity (walking instead of running) and our typical day has a mid-day rest period that can be moved to the time with higher AQI. 

 

We follow the Air Quality and Outdoor Activity Guidance for Schools from www.airnow.gov and apply to our summer camp context. 

 

Air Quality Index (AQI)  Adapted Outdoor Activity Guide*
Green: Good  Great day to be active outside!
Yellow: Moderate   Good day to be active outside! Campers who are unusually sensitive to air pollution could have symptoms.**
Orange: Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups         It’s OK to be active outside, especially for short activities. For longer activities, take more breaks and do less intense activities. Watch for symptoms and take action as needed.** Students with asthma should follow their asthma action plans and keep their quick-relief medicine handy.
Red: Unhealthy For all outdoor activities, take more breaks and do less intense activities. Consider moving longer or more intense activities indoors or rescheduling them to another day or time. Watch for symptoms and take action as needed.* Students with asthma should follow their asthma action plans and keep their quick-relief medicine handy.
Purple: Very Unhealthy Move all activities indoors or reschedule them to another day.

* Resource: https://www.airnow.gov/sites/default/files/2018-09/air-quality-and-outdoor-activity-guidance-2014.pdf)

 

** All campers, and especially campers with asthma or other sensitivities to air quality, are monitored closely by staff and our HealthCare Personnel (RN) for symptoms of air pollution. If symptoms occur: The camper might need to take a break, do a less intense activity, stop all activity, go indoors, or use quick-relief medicine as prescribed. If symptoms don’t improve, parents will be contacted and medical help contacted. 

 

Our Air Quality Protocol is to respond to prolonged and decreased air quality early, similar to a fire, well before any campers may experience symptoms requiring medical attention. 

 

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