I. Snow Closings

I.1 Policy

The Arc Baltimore is concerned for the safety and well-being of its participants and staff in the event of inclement weather.  Staff should use sound and prudent judgment in regards to individual personal safety.  At times, there may be reason to close or delay opening of certain programs.  This will be done in accordance with the procedures defined.

I.2 Day Centers

The closure of all day centers due to inclement weather (i.e., snow) will be determined by the Executive Director and the Assistant Executive Director of Community Employment with input from the Director of Facilities and the Manager of Transportation. 

Type of Determination

The determination will be one of the following: 
1.   open on time with transportation,
2.   open on time with transportation running one hour late,
3.   open on time with transportation running two hours late,
4.   open with no transportation, or
5    closed.

Methods of Communication

Announcements will be made by the following methods:

• Local radio and television stations (WBAL primarily)
• The Arc Baltimore’s weather line (410 296 2272, option 7)
• The Arc’s website
• The Arc’s Facebook page
• The Arc's Twitter page
• Automatic phone call from The Arc Baltimore
• Direct staff telephone calls tree

I.3  Landscaping/Janitorial

The Seton location will open on time if it is determined as stated above that transportation is one hour delayed.  If it is determined that programs will be closed, or on a 2 hours delay, the office will  open at the normal time and employees may arrive up to 90 minutes past their normal start time if necessary due to weather related circumstances.

If the weather is severe enough to affect the office operations, staff will be called by their supervisor or another designated person.  Additionally, leave without prior request can be granted on these days. 

Services will be provided in accordance with specific contract requirements. 

I.4 Employment Services/Supported Employment

No radio announcement will be made in regard to supported employment programs.  Each person will be contacted by his/her supervisor, or an automated calling system  in the event of severe weather. Individuals are expected to follow the employment procedures set forth by their community employers.

1.5 Transportation Services for Employment and Day Services

If programs are operating (see above), drivers will notify individuals of estimated pick up times. The transportation manager will notify site managers (Landscape, Janitorial and SEP) of estimated arrival times. 

I.6  Main office/Community Living/ Foster Care

The main office will generally open on time.

If the weather is severe enough to affect the office operations, staff will be called by their supervisor or another designated person.  Staff are directed to The Arc Baltimore main telephone number and select option “7” which is the weather line.  Additionally, leave without prior request may be granted on these days. 

I.7 Training

If trainings are delayed or cancelled, notification will be recorded on The Arc Baltimore weather line, The Arc website, and social media pages.