I understand that the decision to open or close programs in inclement weather has a big effect on everyone.  I also understand that our consumers are better served by being in their day program or at their work site.  However, our top priority is the safety of our consumers and staff.

Below is a list of some common questions that I receive during this time of year and my responses.  I hope this information will be helpful to you.

Who makes the decision?

As Executive Director, I am responsible for the final decision based on the recommendations form the Director of Transporation.

How do we make our decsion?

When we are advised by the weather service that storm conditions exist, several Transportation staff is assigned to check out the status of the roads.  Transportation and Adminsitrative staff is in touch with the Weather Bureau, the County Board of Education and State Police during the weather assessment.

The following factors are used to develop the recommendation for closing programs:

How are people notified?

The agency has a list that is provided to care holders, parents, staff, guardians and consumers with radio stations that will have up to date information on late openings, closings and early dismissals.  On days when the agency is closed, a voice message will be available between 6-6:30 a.m. by calling 410.964.1241.  Or check the web site.

When is the decision made?

Normally, the Transportation Director contacts me by 5:30 a.m. to bring me up to date on the weather conditions.  I make the decistion no later than 6:00 am.

Will we close when weather conditions worsen?

Keep in mind that even if the weather conditions change, we cannot reverse decisions during the morning run without affecting the consumers, their families and our care holders.

Once we make the decision to open programs, care holders and agency staff rely on this decision and leave for work.  If we decide to send our consumers back home, many may return to unsupervised homes.  When conditions change during the day. we may need an early dismissal.  We will strive to give adequate notice to parents, care holders and agency staff.  This is where the emergency contact information for consumers is very important.  Under these conditions, it may be necessary to have an alternate location where the consumer may arrive safely (i.e. a neighbor, another ALU or residential agency office).

We transport over 400 individuals each day to and from their programs and jobs using more than 30 vans.  I know there is no perfect decision when deciding to close programs, but I will always make my decision with the safety of each consumer in mind. 

I hope this explanation helps everyone understand the process that we use to make the best possible decision concerning weather-related program closings.

Winter

2004

Winter

2005

Summer

2006

Winter

2007

Summer

2008

Winter

2008