Disaster Awareness for Care Homes Training Course

Care homes must be prepared to respond quickly, safely, and effectively to emergencies and disasters. Events such as fires, floods, power outages, extreme weather, or medical emergencies can place residents, staff, and visitors at serious risk if robust plans are not in place.

The free Disaster Awareness for Care Homes Training Course provides essential knowledge and practical guidance to help care home staff understand risks, plan appropriately, and respond confidently during emergencies—while protecting resident safety, dignity, and wellbeing.

Why Take This Course?

Care home residents are often among the most vulnerable during emergencies due to age, disability, health conditions, or reduced mobility. Regulatory bodies expect providers to demonstrate clear emergency planning, trained staff, and effective risk management.

This free course helps you to:

• Identify potential disasters and emergency risks
• Develop and maintain effective emergency and evacuation plans
• Understand staff roles and responsibilities during incidents
• Safeguard residents with complex needs
• Communicate effectively with emergency services and families
• Maintain regulatory compliance and accurate records
• Reduce harm, distress, and disruption during emergencies

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Identify common disaster risks affecting care homes
• Understand the importance of emergency planning and risk assessment
• Support the safe evacuation of residents, including those with additional needs
• Use emergency equipment and supplies correctly
• Follow clear communication and escalation procedures
• Work effectively with emergency services and community partners
• Monitor resident health and wellbeing during emergencies
• Meet health, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Review and improve disaster preparedness plans

Disaster Awareness for Care Homes Course Outline

Module 1: Risk Assessment and Emergency Planning
Learners will explore the range of potential hazards that care homes may face, including fires, floods, power outages, and medical emergencies. This module explains how to develop a tailored emergency plan in collaboration with local authorities and emergency services. Learners will consider specific planning needs for residents with disabilities or complex needs and understand the importance of regular fire risk assessments and keeping emergency plans up to date.

Module 2: Emergency Equipment and Essential Supplies
This module focuses on the importance of having appropriate emergency equipment and supplies readily available. Learners will examine essential items such as first aid kits, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, food, water, and medications. The module highlights the need for regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and explores how additional safety measures, such as fire suppression systems and smart safety devices, can enhance preparedness.

Module 3: Staff Training and Emergency Protocols
Learners will explore the role of staff training in effective disaster preparedness. This module covers evacuation procedures, first aid, and emergency response protocols. Learners will understand the importance of clear chains of command, effective communication during emergencies, regular drills, and the designation and training of fire wardens. A knowledge check is included to reinforce understanding.

Module 4: Communication Systems During Emergencies
This module examines how effective communication supports safety during emergencies. Learners will explore reliable communication methods, including text alerts, verbal announcements, and digital systems. The module highlights the importance of assigning staff to liaise with emergency services and stakeholders, ensuring communication systems are accessible to all residents and staff, and maintaining clear communication with residents’ families during incidents.

Module 5: Evacuation Procedures and Personal Emergency Planning
Learners will develop an understanding of safe evacuation procedures within care homes. This module covers the importance of clear evacuation routes, assembly points, and prominently displayed evacuation maps. Learners will explore how to support residents with mobility or health needs and the role of Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for individuals requiring additional assistance.

Module 6: Coordination with Emergency Services
This module focuses on working effectively with emergency services. Learners will examine protocols for contacting fire, police, and medical services and understand the importance of collaboration during drills and real emergencies. The module also highlights the need to provide emergency responders with accurate building layouts and relevant resident information to support a safe and coordinated response. A knowledge check reinforces learning.

Module 7: Community Engagement and Support
Learners will explore how community engagement can strengthen disaster preparedness. This module examines partnerships with local volunteer groups, neighbours, and nearby businesses to enhance available resources and support. Learners will understand how involving the wider community in planning and response efforts can improve resilience during emergencies.

Module 8: Regulatory Compliance and Governance
This module examines the regulatory requirements linked to disaster preparedness in care homes. Learners will explore relevant health and safety regulations, including measures such as gritting outdoor areas and providing temporary lighting. The module highlights the importance of aligning plans with national guidance, regularly reviewing compliance with care home standards, and maintaining accurate records of risk assessments, staff training, and equipment maintenance.

Module 9: Resident Health and Wellbeing During Emergencies
Learners will focus on protecting resident health and wellbeing during emergency situations. This module explores monitoring residents with chronic conditions, managing medication and dietary needs, and carrying out additional health checks during periods of increased risk. Learners will also examine the importance of providing emotional reassurance, comfort, and tailored support to reduce distress during crises.

Module 10: Regular Review, Drills, and Continuous Improvement
In the final module, learners will explore the importance of regularly reviewing and updating disaster plans. This includes scheduled reviews, post-incident evaluations, and regular drills to identify gaps and areas for improvement. Learners will understand the value of involving both staff and residents in evaluating the effectiveness of emergency planning to ensure continuous improvement and readiness.

Target Audience

This course is suitable for:

• Care home staff and support workers
• Senior carers and team leaders
• Care home managers and deputies
• Maintenance and facilities staff
• Anyone involved in emergency planning or response within a care home

It is appropriate for induction training, refresher learning, health and safety training, and CQC compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this course suitable for non-care staff?
Yes. The course is relevant to all staff working in a care home environment, including maintenance and support roles.

Does this course replace practical fire or evacuation training?
No. It supports awareness and understanding but should be used alongside practical drills and site-specific training.

Does it cover residents with complex needs?
Yes. The course includes specific guidance for residents with disabilities, mobility issues, and health conditions.

How long does the course take?
Most learners complete the course in 1-2 hours, depending on experience and role.

Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. A certificate is issued upon successful completion.

Effective disaster planning saves lives, protects dignity, and ensures continuity of care during emergencies. Well-trained staff and clear procedures reduce panic, confusion, and harm—supporting safer outcomes for residents, families, and care providers.

Enrol on the Disaster Awareness for Care Homes Training Course today

Build confidence, strengthen emergency preparedness, and protect those most at risk when it matters most.