Keep Your Daycare Safe Post Covid-19

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Daycare centers will, without a doubt, be one of the most important industries in terms of revitalizing the economy. We at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod appreciate those who care for the children of our nation's workers. Here are some tips for daycare centers still currently open and those who plan on reopening in the near future.

• Safer Drop-off and Pick-up Procedure

At the entrance of your daycare, be sure to have hand cleaning options for children to use before entering the building. A hand washing station with soap and water or sanitizer station will do. Be sure to have disinfectant wipes ready for cleaning door handles, sign-in pens, etc. Also, limit direct contact with parents by having a designated staff member or parent volunteer to escort children to and from their cars and the classroom.

• Classroom Social Distancing

Limit the roster of child care classes to include the same group of kids and same group of staff everyday to prevent new opportunities for harmful pathogens to enter the environment. Also, be sure to time activities so that different groups of children are separated and don't constantly mix. This includes having separate and consistent groups engaging in art programs, recess, and music programs at staggered times.

• Be Sure Your Workers and Children Are Healthy

Make sure all staff and children with Covid-like symptoms and illness stay home without exception. Be constantly on the lookout for children or staff members with a dry cough, sore throat, and cold/flu like symptoms. If anyone appears to be suffering from these symptoms, separate them from the rest of the group until they can be sent home. Be sure to have a backup plan in case a staff member needs to be replaced due to illness and monitor staff absenteeism. If any staff members are at a higher risk of contracting the virus due to age or pre-existing conditions, consult with a medical professional to determine if they should stay home.

These tips and many more can be found on the CDC website (cdc.gov). If your daycare center is in need of a pathogen-targeting disinfection, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is here 24/7 to help. We also provide fire, smoke, water, storm and mold damage repair services. Call us at 508-778-7378 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.