Location Information

   Inclement Weather Policy: Legacy Community Outreach Food Bank                      

Policy Statement:

The safety of our clients and volunteers is paramount. This policy outlines procedures for operational adjustments (delays, closures, cancellations) due to severe weather or emergencies. National Weather Service advisories for possible changes in conditions and weather-related events will be used for decision to alter operations. 

 

Guiding Principle
Safety takes priority over distribution. Outdoor operations will only occur when weather conditions allow safe travel, setup, and service for everyone involved.

Decision Authority
The Food Bank Director, Board President, or Designated Lead on site has full authority to delay, modify, or cancel operations due to weather conditions.
No volunteer or staff member shall be required to work in conditions they believe are unsafe.

Review
This policy will be reviewed annually.
 

Triggers for Closure/Delay:

Severe weather, including rain, winds, flooding, snow, or extreme heat/cold.

 

Communication Methods:

1. Updates for clients are posted on our website (https://legacyfoodbank.org) and Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/LegacyCommunity).

2. Volunteers will be notified by e-mail, text alerts, or telephone message  

 

Volunteer Procedures:

1. You are not required to report if you feel unsafe traveling, but if possible, notifying one of the board members is requested

2. Monitor communication channels for closure announcements.

3. If no closure is announced, assume normal operations, but use your best judgment. 

4. If closure is required or hours are adjusted, pre-packaged food services or adjusted hours may be implemented.

 

Volunteer Safety Statement
Any volunteer or staff member may stop work at any time if they feel conditions are unsafe, without fear of discipline or penalty.

Examples of Adjustments:

1. Heavy snow or ice resulting in hazardous road conditions, as recommended by the National Weather Service will typically result in food bank closure

2. Severe rain/winds: Dangerous wind speeds for outdoor workers in Washington are generally above 20-25 mph. Winds at this speed require caution from flying debris/balance. The primary concern with rain and/or high winds is safety. Rain creates numerous hazards, including slick surfaces, potential for floods and debris slides, and falling objects. Alternative distribution methods may be implemented

   1. Lightning/Thunderstorms: Any lightning or thunderstorm activity in the area requires immediate cessation of all outdoor activities and seeking substantial shelter.

   2. Heavy Rain/Flooding: Very heavy, sustained rain can lead to rapid rises in rivers and streams and increased landslide risk, making many environments dangerous.

   3. Extreme Heat (>90°F): In high temperature conditions adequate fluid intake. Water and/or additional fluids will be available and encouraged. Frequent shade breaks are encouraged.

   4. Volunteer Tolerance and Preparation: Some volunteers are "diehard" and willing to work in most conditions with the right gear, while others have a low tolerance for rain. The Board will determine if indoor operational procedures can be initiated to avoid disruption of services which may result in lack of adequate food for clients

Interpreting "Chance of Rain"

The "percentage chance of rain" (Probability of Precipitation or PoP) refers to the likelihood that a specific point within the forecast area will receive measurable rain (at least 0.01 inches). It does not mean it will rain for that percentage of the day or that percentage of the area will be covered. 

• Low Chances (e.g., 20%): Many volunteers and organizations will proceed with outdoor work, anticipating a low risk of being caught in a downpour, or that any rain will be light and spotty.

• High Chances (e.g., 50% or more): The likelihood of rain at any given location increases significantly. At these percentages, organizations are more likely to have contingency plans, provide clear guidance, or cancel the event unless the work environment is adaptable or indoors. 

Ultimately, the best practice is to monitor field conditions closely, prioritizing volunteer safety and health. Volunteers should be informed of the risks and processes to follow. 

Post-Closure:

1. Site safety inspections will occur before reopening after severe damage or outages. 

 

 

Stop-Work Weather Thresholds

Outdoor food bank operations must stop immediately when any of the following conditions are met:
 

Rain:

• Heavy rain approx. 0.5 inches per hour or more
• Standing water, flooding, or unsafe footing
• Reduced visibility
 

Heat:

• Heat index 103°F or higher

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Cold:

• 32°F or below with precipitation
• Wind chill 25°F or lower - modified
• Wind chill 15°F or lower – immediate stop

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Wind:

• Sustained winds 25 mph or greater
• Wind gusts 35 mph or greater
• Unstable tents or equipment

 

Snow and Ice:

• Any ice present on streets and/or sidewalks
• Snow accumulation of 1 inch or more
• Parking areas not plowed or treated

Lightning:

• Lightning within 10 miles
• Thunder heard
Resume only after 30 minutes since last thunder or lightning
 

Smoke / Air Quality:
• AQI 151 or higher