How often are fire drills conducted at the facility?

Fire drills are essential for ensuring the safety and preparedness of occupants in a facility, particularly in emergency situations. According to Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR), facilities are mandated to conduct fire drills at least quarterly on all shifts. This requirement is in place to ensure that staff and residents are familiar with evacuation procedures and can perform them effectively during an actual emergency. Quarterly drills provide regular practice and allow for the assessment of the effectiveness of the fire safety plans and procedures in place. They also help identify any areas that may need improvement or additional training, thereby enhancing overall safety and compliance with regulations.

In contrast, conducting drills annually, monthly, or biannually does not meet the standards set forth by COMAR, as these frequencies may not provide sufficient practice and familiarity with emergency protocols for all individuals in the facility. Regular quarterly drills, therefore, are crucial to maintaining a high level of readiness.