How many fire drills must a facility conduct each year?

In a skilled nursing facility, conducting fire drills is a crucial component of emergency preparedness and safety management. Fire drills are necessary to ensure that staff and residents are familiar with evacuation procedures and can respond efficiently in the event of a fire.

The requirement to conduct a minimum of 12 fire drills each year supports a consistent practice of safety protocols. This frequency allows different shifts and staff members to participate, ensuring that everyone is trained and aware of their responsibilities during an emergency. Regularly scheduled drills also help identify any areas for improvement in the evacuation plan and reinforce the importance of fire safety within the facility.

By establishing this as a standard, facilities can better protect the health and safety of residents and staff, while also meeting regulatory requirements set forth by state and federal authorities.