At Armoured One LLC we always focus on preparation, which is why we’ve kept a close eye on the vaccine mandate and its impact on first responders across the country. We have yet to see the full impact of vaccine mandates on America’s workforce and likely won’t until after the deadline has passed. In the meantime, though, it’s important for school districts and businesses to consider the implications of a reduced first-responder workforce and slower emergency response times.
The Issue: We Don’t Know What Will Happen with the Vaccine Mandates
One of the biggest challenges facing communities around the country is that current reports about the vaccine mandates negate one another when it comes to the actual numbers of employees leaving. For instance, while city officials might state that the numbers are low and won’t have a large impact on response times, union/guild officials and even police and fire departments argue that the numbers are potentially catastrophic. This discrepancy in reporting makes it difficult to ascertain what the reality of the situation will look like.
While these reports are unlikely to align in the near future, even as the mandate deadline approaches, school districts and businesses need to be proactive in creating a contingency plan. They need to take into account that delayed emergency response times in the event of an active shooter attack could lead to more deaths. By updating current emergency response plans with a contingency for delayed law enforcement response, schools and businesses alike will be better prepared and could potentially save lives.
Top 4 Considerations for an ERP Contingency
In order to help you prepare for potential emergency response barriers due to the vaccine mandate, we’ve outlined our top four considerations for building a contingency into your emergency response plans.
Medical Considerations
Ensure that staff are current with their CPR/AED/First Aid Training. Schools and businesses should also provide trauma kits or bleed control kits throughout their buildings (ideally every classroom/main office area) to render first aid quickly in the event of a trauma. Additionally, ensure that the Emergency Response Team has the ability to treat multiple patients prior to EMS/Rescue arrival.
Third-Party Vulnerability Assessment
These types of assessments can help schools and businesses identify areas in need of improvement concerning both the internal and external response to an emergency situation. Once vulnerabilities have been identified, solutions can be put in place to help fill the gap and ensure better outcomes.
Security & Safety Teams
Meet with your district or company Safety and Security team to discuss potential challenges based upon the local area and area responders. Having everyone on the same page helps to eliminate confusion or conflicting strategies and action, and provides a means for a more effective response.
Mass Notification
Ensure your building mass notification systems are effective in communicating emergency situations across the campus. All staff should be trained in how to properly utilize the system as well as have the ability to use the system in the event of an emergency, regardless of their location on campus.
What Next?
As we continue to watch the deadline approach, pending appellate court decisions, our team will continue to work with districts around the country through active shooter preparedness training, security assessments, and consulting on emergency preparedness. If your school or business would like to learn more about training or security assessments, visit our website or reach out to our team today.
