Emergency Preparedness for Childcare Centers: Why Evacuation Cribs Matter

No one expects an emergency, but every childcare center needs to be prepared for one. Whether it's a fire, severe weather, or another unexpected event, having the right equipment and a well-practiced evacuation plan can make all the difference when caring for infants and young children.

While evacuation requirements vary by state, every licensed childcare center is responsible for safely evacuating the children in its care. Here's what you need to know about evacuation cribs, state requirements, and the features that make them an essential part of emergency preparedness.

Why Do Daycares Need Evacuation Cribs?

Emergencies can happen without warning, and childcare centers need to be prepared. When caring for infants and young children, having the right evacuation equipment can make all the difference.

Childcare licensing requirements vary by state. Approximately 40% of U.S. states specifically require emergency evacuation cribs (or similar wheeled evacuation cribs) in licensed childcare centers serving infants. Many other states require an approved evacuation device for non-ambulatory children, while all licensed childcare centers are expected to have an emergency evacuation plan in place.

Whether required by your state's regulations or not, having a reliable method to quickly evacuate infants is an essential part of emergency preparedness.

Why Choose an Evacuation Crib?

If your state allows you to choose your evacuation equipment, an evacuation crib for childcare is the most effective solution available.

Unlike wagons or strollers that may be stored away until needed, evacuation cribs are already part of the nursery and ready for immediate use. Purpose-built for emergencies, they feature large, smooth-rolling casters, durable construction, and the capacity to safely transport multiple infants at once, helping caregivers evacuate children quickly, efficiently, and with confidence.

If your state does not specify that you must have an evacuation crib, then it’s up to you for what device you use, but an evac crib is still a strong choice. An evacuation crib is a great device to transport children in an emergency, because they are already integrated into the nursery, instead of having to dig out a wagon or stroller, and are built with special features that make them easy to transport. At the very least, we suggest purchasing an Evacuation Kit (compatible with our popular Serenity cribs) that can make a crib evac-capable.