After a hurricane, once it is safe, an important first step is to assess the impact of the storm. Some inspections will be simple, others may need the assistance of a professional, such as a structural engineer.
Conducting this assessment early on is important, as the information obtained can be used to communicate the condition of the facility as well as the status of the program to the local CCR&R, licensing consultant or supervisor.
Damage assessments are also useful in case a child care program is eligible to apply for disaster assistance. In some cases, additional funding may be available to supplement out-of-pocket costs or provide for expenses not covered by insurance.
Documentation Tips:
- Begin documenting your damage claim by taking an inventory of your damaged or destroyed belongings and gathering your insurance policy documents.
- Use a digital camera or the camera on your phone to photograph any damage (both interior and exterior of the building as well as contents).
- Once you have gathered necessary documents and evidence of your claim, contact your insurance company or agent.
- If you need to purchase supplies or materials, SAVE ALL RECEIPTS.
If you are unable to provide child care services due to hurricane damage, be sure to notify staff and families as soon as possible.
Disaster Assistance:
If a federal disaster is declared in the area, assistance may be available through FEMA. Visit FEMA Disaster Assistance to learn more.
Next Steps
If you need additional guidance on hurricane preparedness, response, and recovery, contact your local CCR&R. You can also reach the Child Care Aware of America Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery team at preparedness@usa.childcareaware.org
Related CCAoA Resources
- Hurricane Season Preparation
- Child Care Emergency Preparedness
- Business Continuity
- Emergency Supply Kits
- Power Outages and Food Safety
- Helping Children Cope
- How Insurance Protects You in an Emergency
- Reducing the Financial Toll of Emergencies
Other Resources
- A Hurricane Comes to Sesame Street (Sesame Street in Communities)
- Hurricanes (Ready.gov)
- Hurricanes and Other Tropical Storms (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Hurricane Resources (The National Child Traumatic Stress Network)
- 10 Tips for Keeping Children Safe in a Hurricane (Save the Children)
- Hurricane Preparedness (American Academy of Pediatrics)
- Ready Wrigley (CDC)
- Sample Damage Assessment Tool (California Childcare Health Program)
