In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Cherokee Creek Boys School (CCBS) demonstrated the critical role that Joint Commission accreditation plays in effective disaster preparedness and response. A cornerstone of this accreditation is the requirement for an annually evaluated and comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. This plan encompasses essential components such as staff training requirements, maintenance protocols, and detailed evacuation plans. By ensuring that every staff member is oriented to these protocols within their first week of employment and requiring ongoing crisis management training at least quarterly, CCBS has established a robust framework for being prepared for emergencies.

Regular safety drills are a vital part of Cherokee Creek’’s training regimen, conducted across all shifts to guarantee that all staff members are familiar with emergency procedures. Each drill is meticulously evaluated to assess effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement, a practice emphasized by the Joint Commission. While fortunately, Hurricane Helene did not necessitate an evacuation, the drills ensured that staff were prepared to act swiftly and effectively if the situation had escalated, reinforcing the importance of practice in actual emergencies.

Cherokee Creek’s rigorous maintenance protocols, including monthly testing of power generators and transfer switches, significantly enhanced their readiness. These generators are tested for 30 minutes from a cold start, ensuring they can automatically activate without staff intervention when commercial power is lost. This level of preparedness allows staff to concentrate on student care during emergencies rather than logistical challenges. Furthermore, as a licensed facility in the state of South Carolina, Cherokee Creek benefits from the support and resources provided by state agencies. 

“Our accreditation with The Joint Commission and State Licensure are valuable for Cherokee Creek Boys School on so many levels,” reports Ginelle Kohl, Human Resource & Compliance Manager. “While we lost power, phones, and internet for close to a week, we did not experience any property damage or flooding and were able to maintain routine care for our students. We were also in regular communication with the State of South Carolina as they were invested in knowing how we fared the storm, understanding any operational adjustments, and connecting us with any needed resources.” 

Having specific plans in place allowed Cherokee Creek to communicate important updates from campus and coordinate video calls for students and their families. This experience underscores how Joint Commission accreditation, coupled with state support, equips organizations with essential emergency preparedness, fostering trust and effective communication in times of crisis.