Emergency Shelter Setup and Operations Checklist
This comprehensive emergency shelter setup and operations checklist ensures regulatory compliance with FEMA, American Red Cross, ADA, CDC, State Emergency Management. Activation checklist for emergency shelters covering facility setup, registration, medical support, access for people with disabilities, pet accommodation, and operational management per FEMA Comprehensive Preparedness Guide 101, Red Cross shelter standards, and ADA accessibility requirements.. Complete all sections to maintain com
- Industry: Emergency Services
- Frequency: Per Shift / Daily
- Estimated Time: 35 minutes
- Role: Station Captain / Shift Commander / EMS Lead
- Total Items: 20
- Compliance: FEMA, American Red Cross, ADA, CDC, State Emergency Management
Facility Activation and Setup
Set up shelter per Red Cross and FEMA CPG-101 standards.
- Has facility been assessed as structurally safe by authorized inspector before opening to evacuees?
- Is sleeping space allocated at minimum 40 square feet per person per Red Cross standard?
- Are cots or sleeping mats available with adequate quantity for anticipated shelter population?
- Are adequate restrooms and handwashing facilities accessible with target 1:20 toilet-to-person ratio?
- Is feeding capability established with meals planned for anticipated duration per USDA dietary guidelines?
- Is emergency lighting operational in all areas including restrooms and corridors?
Registration and Security
Establish registration and access control.
- Is registration system operational to track all shelter occupants for family reunification?
- Is personal information collected securely per privacy law requirements and FEMA guidance?
- Is law enforcement or trained security personnel on-site per Red Cross shelter security plan?
- Are separate entry and exit flows established to prevent congestion and maintain accountability?
- Is sex offender notification protocol in place per state law requirements for emergency shelters?
ADA Accessibility and Functional Needs
Verify ADA compliance per DOJ ADA Title II standards.
- Are accessible routes from parking to shelter entrance and throughout facility per ADA Title II?
- Are accessible sleeping areas with ground-level cots reserved for people with mobility impairments?
- Are accommodations available for medical equipment (power outlets, refrigerators for medication)?
- Are service animals welcomed in shelter per ADA requirements?
- Are ASL interpreters, TTY, or visual communication aids available for deaf/hard-of-hearing residents?
Health and Medical Services
Verify health services per CDC shelter guidance.
- Is first aid station stocked and staffed by person with first aid/CPR certification?
- Is separate medical area established for sick evacuees to prevent disease spread?
- Are infection control measures in place including hand sanitizer stations and face mask availability?
- Is mental health or crisis counseling support available or accessible for traumatized evacuees?
Related Emergency Services Checklists
- Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) Preparedness and Plan Review Checklist
- Emergency Communication Interoperability and Radio System Checklist
- Critical Infrastructure Protection and Security Assessment Checklist
- Law Enforcement Use of Force Policy Compliance Review Checklist
Why Use This Emergency Shelter Setup and Operations Checklist?
This emergency shelter setup and operations checklist helps emergency services teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for station captain / shift commander / ems lead professionals, this checklist covers 20 critical inspection points across 4 sections. Recommended frequency: per shift / daily.
Ensures compliance with FEMA, American Red Cross, ADA, CDC, State Emergency Management. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Emergency Shelter Setup and Operations Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 20 inspection items across 4 sections: Facility Activation and Setup, Registration and Security, ADA Accessibility and Functional Needs, Health and Medical Services. It is designed for emergency services operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per shift / daily. Each completion takes approximately 35 minutes.
Who should use this Emergency Shelter Setup and Operations Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Station Captain / Shift Commander / EMS Lead professionals in the emergency services industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.