After deadly Massachusetts fire, Lincoln assisted living home shares its evacuation plan

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — After a deadly fire at an assisted living home in Massachusetts, one facility in Lincoln broke down how it prepares for when an emergency breaks out.

“It’s constantly in our framework and on our minds on what can we do to make sure that we’re safe all the time,” said Candy Hayden, executive director of Aviva Woodlands Assisted Living & Memory Care.

Hayden said in an unexpected situation, the facility is confident it can keep everyone safe because of its open communication.

“Our staff are constantly hearing about safety and what it takes to keep our residents safe,” she said.

And in turn the staff train the residents.

“I think they’re very educated, and because we are so proactive about it, that they know what to expect,” Hayden said.

Operations Director Shayne Ritchey said it takes a community effort to make sure the safety plan goes off without a hitch.

“It’s essential, especially in those times of need to where you need to elevate the process and have our local authorities come help us out,” he said. “I would speak in the sense of fire and safety, we work hand-in-hand with Lincoln Fire & Rescue on those policies, so we always keep those updated as best as possible.”

Hayden and Ritchey walked Channel 8 through Aviva’s evacuation plan, which includes multiple exit points, a designated area to stand and a shuttle to take residents to a nearby hotel.

They said it takes about 10 minutes to get everyone safely out of the building.

Ritchey said it is beneficial to have active drills and walk through the motions to keep everyone prepared.