Beware the Storm: Don’t forget your Inclement Weather Policy
As I currently have 3 guests evacuated from the Panhandle due to Hurricane Helene, inclement weather policies have been on my mind. The policy or lack thereof doesn’t have to be as scary as the storm. I’m sure there are several ways to implement an inclement weather policy but here is the one that I do.
My current policy is based on the local School District.
My thoughts re: using the local school system
they make the decision for you. They are typically taking safety into consideration and may be aware of road and county situations more than a typical civilian.
it’s a state wide notification. If you use this system, you would not necessarily have to notify clients if you are affected by the weather.
Most recently with Helene, I reached out to my patients letting them know that the school district was closed however I had power, internet, and my spouse’s work was also cancelled (I don’t typically share the details) and we could meet or they could reschedule without charge due to the emergency. 2/3 decided to keep their appointments. Reaching out allows me to remind people about the policy as well as allow for flexibility (if I can). I will remind my clients this week of the inclement weather policy as well as following the school guidelines.
If you want to volunteer to help with Hurricane Helene, here are a couple links that can get you to the right place:
LPCAGA and RedCross: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdMzDASvRQhMxvZuqt2ypGcKl0iSHpi6l9cbLHLBwbpq6Jn0g/viewform
NASW of North Carolina: https://www.naswnc.org/page/helenerelief
