emergency procedures

Question 1

actions following an animal escape

Answer 1

• report escape to senior staff member
• control / evacuation of visitors
• alert emergency services (in case of animal leaving perimeter)
• alert vet / gun team
• maintain visual contact with animal
• ensure accommodation for animal
• recapture the animal

Question 2

types of emergency situations

Answer 2

• animal escapes
• fire
• floods
• lost persons
• enclosure invasions
• accidents + medical emergencies
• terrorist attack
• keeper injured / attacked by animal
• preparation + staff training

Question 3

necessary protocols (exam question answer)

Answer 3

• use of firearms / sedation / capture to get the animal under control quickly / return to the enclosure
• evacuation of public to reduce the chance of injury / fatality
• staff training / drills to ensure everyone knows their role / carries it out effectively
• informing authorities / police → requirement under ZLA 1981
• lock down to keep animals / humans safe

Question 4

medical emergencies

Answer 4

• be able to provide adequate first aid in case of staff injured or falling ill
• staff should be trained in the use of defibrillators if available
• first aid training including uncommon, but specific zoo hazards (venomous bites + stings, injection with animal medicines)