Incident Action Plan

Quickly determine the best way to protect your life.

  1. RUN/Evacuate if Possible
  2. HIDE/When an evacuation is not possible
  3. FIGHT/Take Action to incapacitate the aggressive behavior as a last resort

RUN/Evacuate If Possible:

  • Know where the exits are. Have an escape route and plan in mind.
  • Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
  • Leave your belongings behind.
  • Prevent others from entering an area where aggressive behavior may be.
  • Keep your hands visible to responding police officers.
  • Follow instructions of any police officers.
  • Do not attempt to move wounded people.
  • Call 911 when you are safe.

HIDE/When an evacuation is not possible:

  • Seek a designated safe room identified by the safe room emblem.
  • If safe room is not accessible, hide in an area out of view (i.e. a room with a closed and locked door).
  • Lock the door.
  • Blockade the door with heavy furniture.
  • Silence cell phones and any other source of noise.
  • Use cell phone only to relay pertinent information to 911.
  • Remain quiet.
  • If given the opportunity, evacuate.

If evacuation and hiding out are not possible as a last resort and only when your life is in imminent danger:

FIGHT/Take Action:

  • Attempt to incapacitate the aggressive behavior.
  • Yell and commit to your actions.
  • If you are in a group, attack from multiple angles.
  • Act with physical force and determination; use improvised weapons and throw items, if possible.

When it is safe to do so, call to report the situation to the Central Security Dispatch specific to your location noted below or call 911. All other offices not listed should immediately call 911 when safe to do so.

Central Security Dispatch:

When a bomb threat or other violent threat is received by phone by any Lifetime Healthcare employee:

Keep the caller on the line. Signal someone to contact the designated central dispatch specific to that location as noted below.

Central Security Dispatch:

 

Try to remain calm and ask the following series of questions:

 

  • When will the bomb explode?
  • Where is it right now?
  • What kind of bomb is it?
  • What will cause it to explode?
  • What does it look like?
  • Did you place the bomb?
  • Who placed the bomb?
  • Why did you place the bomb?
  • How many bombs are there?
  • Who are you? What is your name?
  • What organization do you represent?
  • Where are you?
  • Why are you doing this?
  • Are you aware that it could kill or injure innocent people in addition to those you intend to hurt?

Relay as much information as you can to Central Security Dispatch or 911. Describe the caller’s voice, any background noises you heard, and the exact wording of the message.

If the threat is targeted to a specific building, proceed with building evacuation.

If the threat is not targeted to a specific building, contact the police department and Central Security Dispatch.

Follow instructions from first responders in regards to evacuation assembly areas.

CAUTION: Do not touch suspicious packages.

For suspicious mail or suspicious packages, also reference “Suspicious Package” section below.

Carjacking is robbery; it is a violent form of motor vehicle theft. In most carjacking situations, the attacker(s) are interested only in the vehicle.

What to do

If you are a victim of carjacking; in most situations, do not resist. It is probably safest to give up your vehicle.

  • Give up the vehicle freely.
  • Listen carefully and follow all directions.
  • Do not make quick or sudden movements that the attacker could construe as a counter attack.
  • Keep your hands in plain view: up, empty and open.
  • Tell the attacker of every move in advance.
  • Make the attacker aware if children or pets are present. The attacker may be focused only on the driver and not be aware that there are other occupants in the vehicle.

Following the incident

  • Immediately report the crime to police authorities.
  • Remember as much detail about the carjacker as possible, footwear and clothing description and any other information that stands out.
  • Remember the direction of travel following the carjacking.
  • Request medical assistance if required.
  • If you are using a company car or if the attack occurred while on corporate property, notify central security dispatch and/or your human resource case management worker.
  • Complete an Employee Accident / Incident Verification Report Form.
  • Consider obtaining assistance from EAP (regardless of work-related or not).

Carjackers are typically counting on little resistance from their victims and most carjackings are over in seconds. It is important to increase situational awareness as your primary defense against carjacking.

Prevention

Here are some simple and effective ways to reduce the likelihood of a static carjacking:

  • Park for safety, not convenience: As you’re pulling into your workplace parking area or perhaps a shopping area, you may see a spot close to the door that may be convenient, but first look around: What is the lighting like in that area? What time do you expect to return to your vehicle? Will it still be light out then? Are you boxed in with few options for escape if something goes wrong? It is better to park a little further away in a safer spot than simply take the convenient option.
  • Park in the direction you want to leave: If you can, back in or pull through a spot so that if you must leave in a hurry, you can reduce the number of maneuvers necessary to get moving.
  • Trust your instincts: If someone or something in the area is making you nervous, consider returning to your workplace or shopping area and requesting an escort to your vehicle. If you decide to continue to your vehicle, don’t stop to speak to anyone asking for directions or handing out flyers. Get into your vehicle, lock the doors and get moving. Don’t linger to check messages, social media, fix hair or makeup.
  • Use Your Vehicle’s Security Features: Have your keys ready before you reach your vehicle. Remember that your vehicle’s remote entry system is designed for both safety and convenience. Most newer vehicles have an ability to program the door locks in such a manner that one click opens just the driver’s door and the second click unlocks all remaining doors, so, it is recommended to utilize this feature if available.  When you are alone, get in the habit of using just one click. Two clicks open all the doors and may provide someone hiding on the blind side of your vehicle the opportunity to jump in. If you see anyone lingering around your vehicle on your approach, don’t hesitate to use the red alarm button on your remote-control fob. By sounding the alarm, you’re letting the would-be carjacker know that you see them, and you are drawing the attention of others to your situation. This concept is known as “noise deterrence,” and it is a great safety feature on most modern vehicles. Observe the potential carjacker’s reaction. If they seem undeterred, return to the safety of your office and notify the Security Officer on site. 

  • Keep abreast of current news and obtain regular updates if you are in a volatile area
  • If you hear that a demonstration is taking place, avoid the area or stay in your accommodation until you are sure that it's safe to go out
  • If you come across a demonstration, don't become inquisitive, just leave the area and find another route to your intended destination
  • Should you need to go to an area which experiences a lot of demonstrations, try not to go alone. Where possible take someone with you and operate as a team looking out for each other. Keep close and maintain visual contact
  • Avoid any place where police or security force action is in progress.
  • If you find yourself caught up in a protest or riot keep to the edge of the crowd where it is safest. Stay away from glass shop fronts, stay on your feet and move with the flow. Try not to be identified as one of the demonstrators by keeping well away from the leaders/agitators
  • At the first opportunity break away and seek refuge in a nearby building, or find a suitable doorway or alley and stay there until the crowd passes
  • If trapped in your car never drive through a crowd
  • If you find yourself in the path of a crowd, turn down the nearest side road, reverse or turn around and drive away calmly
  • If you cannot drive away, park the car, lock it and leave it, taking shelter in a side street or doorway
  • If you don't have time for this, stop and turn the engine off. Lock the doors and remain calm. Be sure not to show hostility or anger
     

If you become trapped in an elevator, the following actions should be taken:

  • Remain calm. Use the elevator phone or your cell phone to call for assistance.
  • Press the ALARM or HELP button to notify others who may be nearby.
  • CAUTION: Do not attempt to force the door open or attempt to climb out of the elevator car. The elevator may re-start without warning.
  • Your best course of action is to relax, get comfortable, and wait for professional assistance. Even if the air temperature feels warm, there is plenty of air circulating in the elevator and throughout the shaft.
  • Provide the following information to the HELP button responder:
    • Your name.
    • Total number of people in the elevator.
    • Report any injuries, medical conditions, or disabilities.
  • The HELP button responder will contact Facilities Management and/or the fire department to get you out.

Central Security Dispatch

Business Resilience Contacts:

Emergency Information Hotline:

Employee Assistance Program:

1-855-864-1855

Ethics and Compliance Hotline:

1-800-275-0170

Media Inquiries:

Technology Issues:

One or more of the following methods may be used to notify The Lifetime Healthcare Companies employees of various emergency events that may impact employees, members and visitors at our facilities or in advance of known inclement weather or other safety issues in or around upstate New York.

  • ExcellusAlert!: Important emergency alerts, notifications, and updates are sent to all registered devices, including corporate and personal cell phone and email accounts. Please ensure that your contact information is accurate in UltiPro. 
  • The Lifetime Healthcare Companies Website (http://www.866excellus.com/): Critical information is posted on this home page and may be viewed both internally and externally. Corporate Communications will update this site as needed.
  • Email: Broadcast emails are sent to The Lifetime Healthcare employees.
  • Telephone: Broadcast voice mails are sent to employee and contractor/consultant work phone numbers and can be accessed both on and off site through individual voice mail accounts. Critical information is posted on the 1-866-EXCELLUS (392-3558) Emergency Hotline.

Building Evacuation

  • All building occupants are required to evacuate when the fire alarm sounds or upon the order of an authorized official such as a first responder or Local Incident Management Team member.
  • Do not retrieve personal items or laptops if you are away from your desk. Create a habit to carry your phone and keys on your person.
  • If time permits, close office doors behind you as a sign that area has been evacuated.
  • Move to the closest exit and proceed down the EXIT stairwell in a safe and orderly manner. Do NOT use elevators.
  • Remain at least three hundred (300) feet outside of the building and await further instructions. Keep roadways open and beware of approaching emergency vehicles. Notify emergency responders of anyone trapped or any special conditions in the building.
  • Do not go back in the building for any reason until an authorized official deems it safe to re-enter.
  • Following an evacuation, Supervisors or their designee should gather their employees and visitors, and make a roll call at the assembly point and report any missing persons to the nearest Local Incident Management Team member, providing a description and location where the person was last seen.

Individuals Requiring Evacuation Assistance

Pre-Planning is Important. If you are disabled and/or may need assistance evacuating in an emergency, you should pre-plan with your supervisor and contact your Facility Manager of your needs. Your plan should include:

  • Mastering the skill of giving quick information on how best to assist you. Be clear and concise. If you have difficulty speaking, consider using a carry-with-you preprinted message.
  • Establishing a personal network consisting of people who are regularly in the same area as you. Do not depend on any one person as they may not always be available. Assess your own abilities and communicate your capabilities and limitations to those in your network.
  • Determining all your evacuation options and prioritize them.

Assisting Others to Evacuate

Only assist others if you are comfortable doing so and if it does not put yourself or the person receiving assistance in more harm. Evaluate if someone needs assistance during an evacuation. It is not always visibly apparent that someone needs assistance.

  • Assist individuals to the nearest stairwell/exit to await professional assistance if there is no immediate danger.
  • Ask others leaving the building to notify emergency responders that a person needs assistance in evacuating. Give the specific location.
  • An evacuation team will be sent to complete the evacuation.
  • Do not use elevators unless told to do so by emergency responders.

Any employee or visitor who becomes aware of a fire or smoke condition in or around a The Lifetime Healthcare Companies facility should:

Pull the fire alarm.  This automatically initiates call to 911.

The Liaison Officer in cooperation with the Logistics Chief from the Local Incident Management Team should have the following information:

  1. Your name and position in the organization.
  2. The building address.
  3. The type and location of the emergency.
  4. Type of business (typical office).
  5. Number of floors involved (if known).
  6. Any people that may be trapped or injured (if known).

The Lifetime Healthcare Companies follow the R.A.C.E. procedures for fires – actual event and drills

Rescue – rescue person(s) in danger.

Alarm/Announce – pull the alarm.

Contain – Contain the fire by closing all doors and windows.

Extinguish and/or Evacuate – extinguish the fire, only if properly trained and equipped.

IF YOU HEAR OR SEE A HOSTAGE SITUATION:

Immediately remove yourself from any danger.

Immediately call 911.

Be prepared to provide the following information:

  • Location and room name or number of incident.
  • Number of possible hostage takers.
  • Physical description and names of hostage takers, if possible.
  • Number of possible hostages.
  • Any weapons the hostage takers may have (amounts and types).
  • Your name.
  • Your location and phone number.

IF YOU ARE TAKEN HOSTAGE:

  • Remain calm, be polite and cooperate with your captors.
  • DO NOT attempt escape unless there is an extremely good chance of survival. It is safer to be submissive and obey your captors.
  • Speak normally. DO NOT complain and avoid being belligerent or argumentative.
  • DO NOT draw attention to yourself with sudden body movements, statements, comments or hostile looks.
  • Observe the captors and try to memorize their physical traits, voice patterns, clothing or other details that can help provide a description later.
  • Avoid getting into political or ideological discussions with the captors.
  • Try to establish a relationship with your captors and get to know them. Captors are less likely to harm you if they respect you.
  • If forced to present terrorist demands to authorities, either in writing or on tape, state clearly that the demands are from your captors. Avoid making a plea on your own behalf.
  • Try to stay low to the ground or behind cover from windows or doors, if possible.
  • If trapped in the trunk of a car, when stopped pull the emergency trunk release. It is most commonly a “glow in the dark” handle located near the center or off to either side of the trunk lid. If no release exists look for a back-seat release handle and try lowering the back seat. If there is no handle, try to break through the back seat and escape through the passenger compartment. If not able to break through the back seat break out the tail-light and wave at passerby and other motorists

IN A RESCUE SITUATION:

  • DO NOT RUN. Drop to the floor and remain still. If that is not possible, cross your arms, bow your head, and stand still. Make no sudden moves that a responder may interpret as hostile or threatening.
  • Wait for instructions and obey all instructions you are given.
  • Do not be upset, resist, or argue if a rescuer isn’t sure whether you are a terrorist or a hostage.
  • Even if you are handcuffed and searched DO NOT resist. You will be taken to a safe area, where proper identification and status will be determined.

IT Failures (Core Hours 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)

  • If you have an immediate problem, you should always contact the Help Desk via the telephone number that is local to your calling area or the toll free number.
  • Local: 1-585-238-4216
  • Toll Free: 1-866-238-4216

After Hours Emergency IT Problems:
For after core hours emergency IT problems, contact the Help Desk via pager at 1-585-320-0372 and key your numeric phone number including your area code after the tone. The on-call Help Desk Specialist will return your page within 15 - 30 minutes.

 

Telecommunications Problems

  • The Telecommunications Help Desk is available 24 x 7 by calling: 1-855-392-2303

  • An after hours on-call specialist will return your call within 60 minutes

A lockdown procedure is required when an emergency situation requires restricting people from entering or leaving a building or area freely. The notification of a lockdown condition is made by ExcellusAlert!, available overhead public address systems, and if necessary in-person by the Incident Management Team or their designees. Unless otherwise directed, all persons hearing a lockdown notification should follow the following Lockdown Procedures:

  • Stay Inside! Do not leave the building unless an imminently dangerous situation arises inside. If outside, seek shelter in the nearest building.
  • If directed to do so, move to a safe room identified by the safe room emblem.
  • If safe room is not accessible, take shelter in a lockable room.
  • Close windows, shades and blinds, and avoid being seen from outside the room if possible.
  • Monitor ExcellusAlert! text and email for updates and further instructions.
  • Report any emergency or unusual condition to Central Security Dispatch via the location numbers provided below. All other offices not listed should immediately call 911.
  • Use discretion in admitting anyone into a secure building. Require that all backpacks and other bags be left outside at least 30 feet from the building. Require that the person seeking shelter open all outer garments for visual inspection before allowing entry.
  • Once in a secure location, do not leave until receiving the “all clear” from a police officer, Public Information Officer, Safety Officer, or from the ExcellusAlert! communication.

Central Security Dispatch:

Employees who have been designated Public Information Officers (PIOs) (members of the Lifetime Healthcare Companies Corporate Communications Group) serve as the ONLY point of contact for all media inquiries. During an emergency situation, it is especially important that reporters be directed to the local PIO. The PIO speaks on behalf of the LTHC and has the most accurate and up-to-date information available about an incident. In addition, our PIOs work closely with emergency responders to coordinate what information can or should be released to the general public.

When receiving any calls from a media representative, please take the following steps:

  • Direct all media inquiries to your Local Public Information Officer (refer to the Local Incident Management Team contacts posted in Emergeny Preparedness SharePoint) or contact  Kevin Kane - 585-766-2417 (mobile phone) directly. 
     
  • To assist the PIO in responding as quickly as possible, feel free to obtain the following information and forward it to the PIO: 
    • The reporter’s name and phone number.
    • The media organization he/she represents.
    • The type of information he/she is seeking.
    • The reporter’s deadline.
       
  • Regardless of the situation or what the media questions might be, never say “No Comment”. A better response is “Thanks for calling. Allow me to refer you to our Public Information Officer, who handles media questions and they will be able to assist you.”
     
  • Never talk “off the record” with the media. Always assume that they will use any information that they obtain.

Any employee or contractor requiring assistance should immediately dial 911.

If you observe someone in distress:

  • Do not move a seriously injured person unless there is a life-threatening situation.
  • Give your name, location, and telephone number to the 911 dispatch operator.
  • Give as much information as possible regarding the nature of the injury or illness including:
    • Location of person requiring assistance
    • Person's approximate age, sex
    • Symptoms and whether the victim is conscious, etc. Do not hang up until directed to do so by the emergency call taker.
  • Locations of AED/CPR kits are marked on the emergency evacuation plans posted throughout our buildings. Kits can be utilized by any employee by following the visual and audio prompts provided within it.
  • Administer first aid if you know how; and keep the victim as calm and comfortable as possible.
  • Remain with the victim.

If 911 is called using an LTHC phone a Security Guard will be automatically notified and will attempt to contact the caller. Security Guard will then take proper steps to guide First Responders to the scene of the emergency. If 911 call is placed using a cellphone, Security Guards may not be aware of the emergency and should be notified by calling the appropriate Central Dispatch number:

When notifying the Security Guard of the emergency, if available, send another employee or a bystander to the Security Guard post to assist with guiding the First Responders to the location of the victim.

Stop the Bleed

No matter how rapid the arrival of professional emergency responders, bystanders will always be first on the scene. A person who is bleeding can die from normal blood loss within five minutes (a major arterial bleed is within 90 seconds); therefore, it is important to quickly stop the blood loss. "Stop the Bleed" is a nationwide campaign to empower individuals to act quickly and save lives.

By providing this information, we are not suggesting that LTHC employees should place themselves in harm’s way. Remember to be aware of your surroundings and, if it is safe to do so and possible, move yourself and the injured person to safety.

Bystanders can take simple steps to keep the injured person alive until appropriate medical care is available. Here are the three actions you can take to help save a life:

CPR

Bystanders can assist with life-saving measures until more experienced and/or professionals can take over. Therefore, we are providing adult CPR, AED and choking instructions as a reference. 911 Dispatchers may provide guidance including CPR instruction during emergency calls

Anyone who observes or is the victim of a physical assault should immediately report the situation to a Security Officer or the nearest supervisor who will contact the appropriate authorities.

  • If there is any sort of physical evidence of the assault (weapons, torn clothing, blood, etc.) it should not be handled, moved or cleaned up until law enforcement officials give such clearance.
  • The Lifetime Healthcare Companies Local Safety Officer or their designee should notify the victim(s) emergency contact or immediate family of the situation.
  • If possible, The Lifetime Healthcare Companies Local Safety Officer or their designee will assign an appropriate employee to accompany the victim(s) to the police station or to medical care if they are removed from the facility.

Any LTHC employee who is a victim of a crime or assault should consider contacting the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or other support service providers for supportive assistance. Depending on the severity of the event, the LIMT Safety Officer will arrange for on-site support.

All crimes on LTHC property should be reported to the Central Security Dispatch specific to your location noted below. All other offices not listed should immediately call 911 when safe to do so. 


If you witness a crime in progress, give your name, location, and phone number. Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to do so. Remain at the location until a police officer contacts you unless it is not safe to do so.

Shelter-in-place is designed to keep you safe while indoors if dangerous environmental conditions exist, such as extreme weather or a hazardous materials release.

At The Lifetime Healthcare Companies, “Sheltering-in-Place” will require that the Local Incident Management Team give instructions to:

  1. Close operations and prevent any further traffic from entering the facility.
  2. If possible, bring everyone into internal room(s) or hallways.
  3. If directed to do so, move to a safe room identified by the safe room emblem.
  4. Close and lock all windows, exterior doors, and any other openings to the outside.
  5. If there are visitors in the building, provide for their safety by asking them not to leave. When authorities provide directions to shelter-in-place, they expect everyone to take those steps immediately, wherever they are, and not drive or walk outdoors.
  6. Unless there is an imminent threat, ask employees and visitors to call their personal emergency contacts to let them know where they are and that they are safe.
  7. If time allows, departments will activate appropriate Business Continuity Plans.
  8. In multilevel structures, elevator service will be shut off immediately.
  9. If informed that there is danger of explosion or high winds, close the window shades, blinds, or curtains.
  10. The LIMT Logistics Chief or delegate (employees familiar with the building mechanical systems) should turn off all fans, heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Some systems automatically provide for exchange of inside air with outside air - these systems, in particular, need to be turned off, sealed, or disabled.
  11. Gather essential disaster supplies, such as the Go Bag, food and water and move these supplies to the shelter rooms if they are not already pre-positioned in that place.
  12. Designated safe rooms are equipped with a safe room bag containing supplies.If available, use duct tape and plastic sheeting (heavier than food wrap) or other material to seal all cracks around the door(s) and any vents into the room.
  13. Write down the names of everyone in the room, and be prepared to share that information with the LIMT Safety Officer or external authorities.
  14. Keep monitoring ExcellusAlert! until you are told all is safe or you are told to evacuate by Local officials or through direct ExcellusAlert! messaging. Local officials may call for evacuation in specific areas at greatest risk in your community.

If you are outside when a shelter-in-place alert is received, seek shelter in the nearest building, preferably in an interior room with few windows.

Call 988 if you are struggling or in crisis. You can also chat with someone at https://988lifeline.org

  • Do not open the suspicious item. If you have opened it, remain calm.

Notify Central Security Dispatch immediately.

  • Emergency responders will be notified.
  • Do not move the letter or package or examine it further.
  • Keep others out of the area. Close off the area if possible.
  • If possible, limit the use of two-way radios and cell phones near the suspicious item.
  • If the package is leaking a substance or powder and you came into contact with the substance, keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, mouth, or any part of your face. Do not touch others or let others touch you.
  • Wash your hands and arms from the elbow down with soap and hot water.
  • Do not attempt to clean or cover anything that might have spilled from a package.
  • Follow all instructions given by emergency responders.

Also reference “Bomb Threat” section above.

Weather emergencies include a range of severe atmospheric conditions including hurricanes and coastal storms; tornadoes, blizzards and ice storms; and extreme heat and drought conditions. Each of these weather hazards requires different preparedness, response and recovery steps. Detailed instructions for each can be found in the Incident Preparedness and Response Plan found in Emergency Preparedness SharePoint Site.

  • A tornado watch is issued by the National Weather Service when tornadoes are possible in the area.
  • A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted, or indicated by weather radar, in the area.
  • Monitor local radio and TV stations or weather websites for severe weather updates.
  • Be prepared to take shelter on the lowest level of your building if a tornado warning is issued.
  • Do not pull the fire alarm to alert others of a tornado warning.
  • Stay away from windows and exterior doors.
  • Move to an interior hallway for shelter.
  • Wait for an “all clear” notification prior to returning to your work area.
  • If outdoors, lie in a ditch, low-lying area, or crouch near a building if shelter is not available or if there is no time to get indoors.

  • In the event of a utility (power or water) failure, immediately contact the Local Logistics Chief who will arrange for emergency repair service to evaluate and rectify the problem. In facilities where a Logistics Chief does not reside contact your designated office management personnel who will contact the offsite Logistics Chief or maintenance staff.
  • The Logistics Chief will contact the Local Incident Commander to determine whether to evacuate the facility and move employees and guests to alternate facilities or close the facility and implement Business Continuity Plan.
  • If evacuation of the facility is required, see the “Evacuation” section of this guide.
  • If people are trapped in an elevator, see “Elevator Failure” section of this guide.
  • Use flashlights for temporary lighting; CAUTION: Do not use candles or other flames for lighting.

If a weather closing is possible, take your laptop and any needed items from the office in advance. Plan to work from home, but follow direct instructions from your supervisor. 

The Lifetime Healthcare Companies implement the following procedures for announcing operational changes during periods of inclement winter weather:

  • The decision to delay or close business operations due to inclement weather is made by the Local Incident Commanders.
  • Closings and delays are announced using the following methods:
     
  • Do not come to the office when a weather-related closing is announced.

Be Prepared:

Know the Terms

  • Freezing Rain: rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
  • Frost/Freeze Warning: issued when temperatures are expected to drop below freezing over a large area for an extended period of time.
  • Sleet: rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
  • Ice Storm: when ice accumulations are expected during freezing rain situations. Significant ice accumulations are usually 1/4 of an inch or greater.
  • Wind Chill: the temperature it "feels like" when you are outside.
  • Heavy Snow: snowfall accumulating to 4 inches or more in depth in 12 hours or less; or snowfall accumulating to 6 inches or more in depth in 24 hours or less.
  • Winter Weather Advisory: issued by the National Weather Service when a combination of winter weather (snow, freezing rain, sleet, etc.) may present a hazard, but does not meet warning criteria.
  • Winter Storm Watch: issued by the National Weather Service when there is a potential for heavy snow or significant ice, usually at least 24 to 36 hours in advance. The criteria for this watch can vary from place to place.
  • Winter Storm Warning: issued by the National Weather Service when a winter storm is producing or is forecast to produce heavy snow or significant ice. The criteria for this warning can vary from place to place.
  • Blizzard Warning: issued by the National Weather Service for winter storms with sustained or frequent winds of 35 mph or higher with considerable falling and/or blowing snow that frequently reduces visibility to 1/4 of a mile or less. These conditions are expected to last for a minimum of 3 hours.

What to Do Before a Storm Strikes

  • Listen to NOAA Weather Radio and your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information. Know what winter storm watches and warnings mean.
  • Check on relatives, friends, and neighbors who may need assistance preparing for a storm.
  • Be alert to changing weather conditions and avoid unnecessary travel.
  • Let faucets drip a little to help prevent freezing.
  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Winterize Your Car

Before winter sets in, have a mechanic check the following items on your vehicle:

  • Battery
  • Antifreeze
  • Windshield wipers and washer fluid
  • Ignition system
  • Thermostat
  • Lights (headlamps and hazard lights)
  • Exhaust system, heater, brakes, defroster
  • Oil level (if necessary, replace oil with a winter oil or SAE 10w/30 variety)

Install good winter tires that have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require vehicles to be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.

In-Car Emergency

Regardless of the season, it's a good idea to prepare for an in-car emergency. Assemble an emergency supply kit for your vehicle, and consider adding the following items for winter conditions:

  • Blankets, sleeping bags, hand-warmers, feet-warmers 
  • Plastic bags (for sanitation)
  • Extra mittens, socks, scarves and hat, raingear and extra clothes
  • Sack of sand or kitty litter for gaining traction under wheels, small shovel
  • Set of tire chains or traction mats
  • Working jack and lug wrench, spare tire
  • Windshield scraper, broom
  • Small tools (pliers, wrench, screwdriver)
  • Booster cables
  • Brightly colored cloth to use as a flag, flares or reflective triangles

Workplace violence is not tolerated at LTHC. All employees are required to report any acts or threats of workplace violence immediately to an immediate supervisor, manager, Human Capital Management, Legal, or to the anonymous Ethics hotline: 1-800-275-0170.

Workplace violence occurs in many forms. As a reminder, the most common are:

  • Type I: Criminal Intent - typically a stranger with criminal motive against our employees or facilities.
  • Type II: Customer/Client – when a customer/client/member threatens our employees or facilities.
  • Type III: Worker-to-Worker – this could be worker to supervisor, supervisor to worker, etc.
  • Type IV: Domestic Partner – when an employee has domestic issues that can impact the employee and potentially colleagues at work.
  • Type V: Ideological – when violence is directed at LTHC, its people or property for ideological, religious, or political reasons.

Report Workplace Violence and Domestic Violence Incidents even when working from home. If you see or hear something, say something.

 

GDPR Notification Content