4.2 Explain the emergency procedures for: • fire • missing children • evacuation • security incident • medical emergency

This guide will help you answer 4.2 Explain the emergency procedures for: • fire • missing children • evacuation • security incident • medical emergency. Always follow your own organisation’s policies and procedures. In this guide, we provide a range of example in common situations but this may vary depending on the setting and latest guidance.

Fire Emergency Procedures

Fire can spread quickly and put lives at risk. It is vital that all staff and children know how to respond. The aim is to get everyone to safety as fast as possible and then allow trained responders to deal with the situation.

At the first sign of fire or when the alarm sounds:

• Remain calm and speak clearly to children
• Give the agreed fire instruction using simple language
• Stop activities immediately and begin evacuation
• Follow the pre-planned route to the assembly point
• Make sure all children and staff leave together in their designated groups

Never attempt to put out the fire unless trained and safe to do so. Close doors behind you to slow the spread of smoke and flames. Staff should take registers with them to check all persons are accounted for at the assembly point.

Call the fire service on 999 as soon as possible. Provide location details and any information about hazards in the building such as gas cylinders or chemicals.

Keep children calm by using a reassuring tone. Do not return to the building until the fire service confirms it is safe.

Regular fire drills are needed so everyone is familiar with the routine. All exits should be kept clear at all times and fire safety equipment such as extinguishers should be checked regularly.

Missing Children Procedures

A missing child causes immediate concern and action must be taken without delay. Speed and clear communication are important.

On discovering that a child is not accounted for:

• Alert the most senior person present immediately
• Check the register and confirm when the child was last seen
• Search the immediate area including hiding spots or toilets
• Ask other staff and children if they saw where the child went
• Stop all activities and keep remaining children supervised in a safe space

If the child is not found within a few minutes, contact the police giving a clear description including clothing, hair colour and any distinguishing features. Give details of their last known location and any possible routes they could have taken.

Inform parents or carers promptly once the police have been called. Continue to support other children who may be anxious. Follow up by recording the incident in the organisation’s log with times, actions taken and names of people involved.

Preventative measures include secure boundaries, regular headcounts during activities and maintaining correct staff-to-child ratios. Staff should be aware of places where children might try to leave the premises.

Evacuation Procedures

Evacuation may be needed for reasons other than fire. This can include gas leaks, structural problems or bomb threats. The procedure should move everyone to safety in an organised manner.

When instructed to evacuate:

• Stop activities and give clear instructions to the children
• Take the register and emergency contact list with you
• Use the safest and quickest route away from the danger
• Go to the agreed assembly point outside the danger zone
• Keep the group together and calm

Do not re-enter the building until given the all-clear by responsible authorities. Listen to emergency service guidance and follow their directions.

In some situations, it may be safer to remain indoors. This is called a “lockdown” and would be instructed in certain cases such as chemical spills nearby. Staff should know both evacuation and lockdown procedures so they can adapt quickly.

Evacuation plans should be practised as part of drills and updated if the environment changes. Maps showing exit routes should be visible and kept up to date.

Security Incident Procedures

Security incidents may involve an intruder, aggressive behaviour from a visitor, or a suspicious package. The aim is to protect everyone while contacting the proper authorities.

If an intruder is spotted:

• Remove children from the immediate area if possible
• Alert senior staff and activate any alarms
• Call the police straight away explaining the threat
• Lock doors and windows if safe to do so
• Keep children together and away from entrances

If the incident involves aggressive or violent behaviour, do not confront the person unless trained and it is necessary to protect life. Use calm language if there is a chance to diffuse tension. Physical safety comes first.

With a suspicious package, do not touch or move it. Clear the area and inform the police. Follow their guidance and prepare for possible evacuation.

Staff should receive training in recognising warning signs of possible threats. Security measures such as visitor sign-in procedures and controlled access points should be used to prevent incidents.

Medical Emergency Procedures

Medical emergencies can vary from allergic reactions to falls or breathing difficulties. Knowing how to act quickly can save lives.

When a medical emergency occurs:

• Stay calm and assess the situation
• Remove other children to a safe distance
• Call for a trained first aider immediately
• Contact emergency services on 999 when needed
• Give clear information about the nature of the incident

For serious cases such as cardiac arrest, begin CPR if trained while waiting for paramedics. In cases of severe allergic reaction, administer prescribed medication such as an epinephrine auto-injector.

Always record the incident including times, actions taken and names of people involved. Inform parents or carers as soon as possible.

Keep medical information easily accessible for each child. This includes allergy details, long-term conditions and emergency contacts. Medical equipment and first aid kits must be checked regularly.

Training for all staff in basic first aid improves response time and confidence during these situations.

Final Thoughts

Managing emergencies in a playwork setting relies on clear procedures, regular practice and confident action. Children must feel protected and supported during these times. Adults must act quickly in line with agreed plans while keeping communication calm and clear.

Every emergency situation is different, but having set protocols helps reduce confusion and keeps everyone safer. Reviewing and improving procedures after any incident strengthens the safety approach, making sure staff and children are prepared if another event happens.