Safety and Security

Panic buttons are an essential tool for maintaining safety and security in our centers. They provide a quick and discreet way to call for help in an emergency, ensuring that children and staff receive the assistance they need as quickly as possible.

As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, we are excited to announce the upcoming implementation of a mobile panic button system. This innovative solution will supplement our existing hardwired panic buttons, providing staff with an additional layer of security.

How It Works:

The mobile panic button will utilize geofencing technology to create a secure network around each of our locations. In the event of an emergency, staff can discreetly activate the button on their mobile device, instantly alerting designated responders. This enables a swift and coordinated response to any situation, regardless of the staff member's location within the geofenced area.

Key Benefits:

• Enhanced Staff Safety: The mobile panic button empowers staff to quickly and discreetly call for help in any emergency.
• Rapid Response: The system enables immediate response from designated personnel, minimizing response times.
• Improved Communication: The mobile panic button facilitates seamless communication between staff and responders, ensuring a coordinated response.
• Remote Monitoring: The system has the ability to integrate with our current security systems, allowing for remote monitoring and control.

We are diligently working to implement the mobile panic button system as swiftly as possible.
The implementation of the mobile panic button system is just one of the many ways we're striving to create a safe and supportive environment.

Important:

• Under no circumstances will a child be released to anyone not listed on the approved pick-up list.
• If a person is not on the authorized list, they will not be allowed to pick up the child.

At Strong Start, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety for your child. Through careful planning and clear procedures, we ensure that we are prepared for any emergency situation.

Why It Matters

Our video surveillance is used exclusively for safety purposes and is actively monitored by authorized personnel to ensure that the facility remains a safe and secure place for all.

Cleaning & Sanitizing Protocols

At Strong Start, we are dedicated to providing a clean, healthy, and safe environment for all children, staff, and visitors. Our cleaning and sanitizing procedures are designed to meet the highest standards of hygiene and ensure that all areas of our facility are maintained regularly.

Our Cleaning Practices

Daily Cleaning

We follow a strict schedule to ensure all areas of the center are cleaned and sanitized at least once a day. High-traffic areas and surfaces are cleaned multiple times throughout the day to minimize the spread of germs and bacteria. We employ a full time cleaning team to clean the building nightly as well as several times a month conducting a deep cleaning of the center.

• Classrooms: Desks, toys, learning materials, and any shared equipment are wiped down after each use
• Restrooms: Thoroughly cleaned and sanitized multiple times each day.
• Common Areas: Hallways, playrooms, and dining areas are disinfected regularly.
• Staff Areas: Kitchens and staff spaces are also cleaned and sanitized daily.

Special Attention to High-Touch Surfaces
We place extra focus on high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, handrails, and countertops. These are sanitized multiple times a day to reduce the risk of illness.

Sanitizing Procedures

Non-Toxic, Child-Safe Products
We use child-friendly, non-toxic sanitizing products to ensure a safe environment for all children. All cleaning products are chosen for their effectiveness while being safe for little ones.

• Toys & Play Equipment: All toys and play items are sanitized regularly to ensure they remain safe for children.
• Hand Sanitizer Stations: Hand sanitizing stations are available throughout the facility, including entrances,

What You Can Expect:

• Emergency Care: Staff will administer first aid for injuries and health emergencies and seek professional medical help when needed.
• Medication Administration: Medication is given according to the prescribed guidelines, with strict attention to dosage and safety.
• Accident Handling: Minor injuries are treated on-site, and parents are notified immediately. Serious injuries will prompt emergency services.
• Documentation: All health incidents, including injuries and medication, are logged and communicated to parents via our Brightwheel application.

Mandated Reporter Training

We Take Child Safety Seriously
As part of our commitment to protecting children, all employees receive mandated reporter training. This ensures that our staff can recognize and respond appropriately.

What You Need to Know:

• State-Mandated Training: Employees complete required training provided by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), which includes both in-person and online modules.
• Reporting Protocol: Any concerns about a child's well being are reported directly to DCF. Staff are legally required to report suspected cases.
• Confidentiality: Reports are kept confidential and shared only with authorized agencies.
• Director’s Role: Our Director ensures all staff are fully trained and compliant with state regulations, maintaining a safe environment for all children in our care.

Why It Matters

The health and safety of every child in our care is our top priority. Through ongoing training and clear protocols, we ensure that both staff and parents can trust in our ability to handle health emergencies and safeguard the well-being of all children.

Emergency Evacuation Procedures

In the event that our center must evacuate due to potential harm, we follow specific procedures to ensure the safety of all children and staff.

Evacuation Protocol

• In the case of evacuation (e.g., fire drill), the attendance clipboard and classroom first aid kit will be taken along with the children.
• Staff will guide children to a designated safe area away from the building and will conduct an attendance check.
• If it is not safe to return to the building, children will be escorted to a safe alternate location:
  • Trumbull Location: The medical building located at 112 Quarry Road
  • Shelton Location: The Building located at 917 Bridgeport Avenue
• Parents will be notified immediately via cell phone and are required to pick up their children from the designated evacuation site.
• Children will not be allowed to leave until the building has been cleared by the appropriate authorities (e.g., fire department, police).

Lockdown Procedures

In certain emergency situations, we may need to implement a lockdown for the safety of all children and staff. Our lockdown procedures are as follows:

Modified Lockdown

• No new pick-ups: Only previously authorized individuals on the pick-up list may retrieve a child.
• Restricted movement: Children must remain in their classrooms; no one may go outside or access playground areas.
• Building security: All blinds will be closed, lights turned off, and staff will remain in communication via intercom/telephone.
• Parent Notifications: Parents will be informed via email about the modified lockdown.

Full Lockdown

• Building entry/exit restricted: No one will be allowed to enter or exit the building until the lockdown is lifted.
• Classroom and building security: Classroom doors must be locked, outside doors will be secured via a hallway switch, and blinds will be closed.
• Parent Notifications: Parents will be notified once the lockdown is initiated.