In the event of a serious allergy event, you should prepare your staff and volunteers to handle allergic reactions, specifically those with food allergies who are often prescribed an epinephrine auto injector, commonly known as an EpiPen.
We recommend that you work with your legal counsel to develop a plan to address the use of an EpiPen should the need arise. Look over the sample EPIPEN PROTOCOL and review it with your attorney.
Additional information you may find helpful and included on our website are these SUPPORT MATERIALS (EpiPen Emergency Plan Form; sample Name Tag; sample Backpack/Luggage tag; sample Signage to be placed in classrooms).
According to Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE), food allergies affect up to 15 million people in the United States. The National Center for Health Statistics indicates four out of every 100 children have a food allergy, and the prevalence is increasing. To help protect the members of your church, it is important to be educated on the subject and take measures in preventing allergic reactions. Regular emergency procedures training for staff and volunteers should be done on at least an annual basis.
