Interview Questions for Animal Shelter Policy and Procedure Development

Developing and implementing animal shelter policies requires a multifaceted approach, blending legal compliance, ethical considerations, and operational efficiency. My experience spans creating policies covering everything from animal intake and assessment to adoption procedures, volunteer management, and emergency protocols. For example, at my previous shelter, I spearheaded the development of a new intake policy that streamlined the process, reducing wait times and improving the overall animal welfare during the initial assessment phase. This involved creating standardized forms, clarifying roles and responsibilities for staff, and implementing a prioritization system for animals in need of immediate medical attention. Another significant project involved updating our adoption policies to incorporate a more rigorous screening process for potential adopters, ensuring better matches and reducing return rates. This involved extensive research into best practices and collaboration with our adoption team to create a streamlined and efficient system that minimizes the stress on both the animals and the prospective adopters.

When a discrepancy arises between shelter policy and best practices, my approach is systematic and collaborative. First, I would identify the specific area of conflict and thoroughly research the current best practices, referencing reputable sources like the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement (AAWA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Then, I would gather input from relevant staff, including those on the front lines who can provide valuable insight into the practical implications of both the policy and the best practices. A thorough cost-benefit analysis will also be performed. Finally, I would present a well-reasoned proposal for updating the policy, justifying the changes with data, best practices, and feedback, and ensuring buy-in from the leadership and staff. For instance, if our policy on euthanasia clashed with the recommended guidelines for managing overcrowded shelters using ‘quality of life’ standards, I would gather data on our euthanasia rates, compare them to national averages, and propose an evidence-based strategy to modify our policies to align with best practices while minimizing the impact on our operational capacity.

Ensuring compliance with animal welfare regulations is paramount. My approach involves a three-pronged strategy: proactive education, rigorous documentation, and regular audits. Firstly, all staff receive comprehensive training on relevant federal, state, and local regulations. We regularly update this training to reflect any changes in legislation. Secondly, I implement meticulous record-keeping systems. This includes detailed records of animal intake, medical treatment, housing, and any interactions. This documentation not only demonstrates compliance but also helps in tracking animal welfare outcomes. Finally, we conduct internal and, if required, external audits to assess compliance. This helps identify any potential gaps and rectify them proactively. This might include reviewing vaccination records, ensuring proper sanitation protocols are adhered to, or checking the adequacy of animal enclosures. Failure to comply with animal welfare regulations can result in hefty fines, loss of licensing, and damage to the shelter’s reputation; thus, a proactive and thorough approach is vital.

Tracking and evaluating the effectiveness of shelter policies rely on a data-driven approach. We use key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success. For example, to evaluate the effectiveness of our adoption policies, we track adoption rates, return-to-shelter rates, and time spent in shelter. Similarly, for intake policies, we track intake numbers, processing times, and the health status of animals upon arrival. We also conduct regular surveys among staff and adopters to gather feedback. This data is analyzed regularly to identify areas for improvement. We may use simple spreadsheet software or dedicated animal management software that tracks critical data points for analysis. For instance, a significant drop in adoption rates might prompt a review of our adoption policies or marketing strategies.

Ensuring staff understanding and adherence to policies starts with clear communication and ongoing training. Policies are presented in a user-friendly format, avoiding jargon, and supplemented with training sessions and workshops that explain the rationale behind each policy. We create easily accessible policy manuals that are kept updated and readily available to all staff. Furthermore, we regularly conduct staff meetings to review policies, address concerns, and answer questions. We utilize a combination of methods like interactive training, role-playing scenarios, and regular quizzes or tests to assess comprehension. This ensures all employees, from animal care staff to administrative personnel, understand their roles and responsibilities in upholding the shelter’s policies.

Creating and maintaining comprehensive shelter procedures involves a detailed, step-by-step approach, ensuring clarity and consistency. I start by identifying all key operational areas, such as animal intake, medical care, cleaning protocols, and volunteer management. For each area, I develop detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) that outline every step involved, specifying roles, responsibilities, and the required resources. These SOPs are meticulously documented and visually supported with diagrams or flowcharts where helpful, using easily accessible language and avoiding technical jargon. For instance, our cleaning procedure outlines specific cleaning agents for different surfaces, frequencies of cleaning, and proper disposal of biohazardous waste, ensuring consistency and minimizing risks of cross-contamination. Regular review and updates to ensure alignment with best practices and regulatory changes are also crucial.

If a policy is causing operational inefficiencies, I would conduct a thorough review using a structured approach. First, I would clearly define the inefficiencies, identifying the specific issues and gathering data to quantify the impact. Next, I would involve staff directly affected by the policy to get their feedback on the challenges they face. Then, I would analyze the policy to identify the root causes of the inefficiencies, examining factors like unclear instructions, overly complex steps, or lack of necessary resources. This will involve discussions with relevant stakeholders and potential brainstorming sessions to find solutions. Finally, I would develop and implement revised procedures or a revised policy that addresses the inefficiencies, taking care to thoroughly evaluate the impact of changes before final implementation, possibly testing new approaches on a pilot program basis. This iterative approach ensures that the policies serve their intended purpose while maintaining efficient workflows.

Involving staff in policy development is crucial for buy-in and effective implementation. I employ a multi-pronged approach. First, I initiate open forums and brainstorming sessions where staff at all levels can contribute ideas, concerns, and practical experiences. This ensures policies are realistic and address real-world challenges. Second, I utilize surveys and questionnaires to gather broader input, particularly on areas where direct feedback may be challenging to obtain. Third, I establish working groups composed of representatives from different departments – animal care, adoption, administration – to collaborate on drafting and refining policies. This fosters a sense of ownership and accountability. For example, when revising our intake protocols, I created a working group with veterinary staff, intake coordinators, and kennel technicians to ensure the new policies addressed both the animals’ needs and the operational capacity of the shelter.

• Open Forums: Regular meetings to discuss policy improvements.
• Surveys/Questionnaires: Anonymous feedback to gather diverse perspectives.
• Working Groups: Cross-departmental teams focused on specific policies.

A deep understanding of animal welfare laws and regulations is paramount for legal compliance. This includes federal, state, and local ordinances covering animal cruelty prevention, public health, licensing, and disease control. For example, the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) in the United States sets minimum standards for animal care and handling in certain facilities. Knowing this legislation allows us to ensure appropriate animal housing, veterinary care, and handling procedures. Similarly, local ordinances often dictate specifics on stray animal handling, quarantine protocols, and euthanasia practices. Failure to comply with these laws can result in hefty fines, legal action, and damage to the shelter’s reputation. I am proficient in interpreting these legal frameworks and translating them into practical shelter policies and procedures to ensure full legal compliance. Furthermore, understanding liability issues, such as those related to animal bites or injuries to staff, is essential for developing comprehensive risk management strategies.

Staying current with changes in animal welfare law requires a proactive and multi-faceted approach. I regularly subscribe to legal updates and newsletters from relevant organizations like the ASPCA, HSUS, and local bar associations. I also actively participate in professional development workshops and conferences focused on animal law and shelter management. Membership in professional organizations, such as the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACCC), keeps me informed through their publications and networking opportunities. Finally, I maintain contact with legal counsel specializing in animal law to receive guidance on complex issues or emerging legal precedents. This multi-pronged strategy allows me to stay abreast of changes, ensuring our policies remain up-to-date and compliant.

Addressing non-compliance starts with a thorough understanding of the context. Was it a single instance or a pattern of behavior? Was there a lack of training, misunderstanding, or willful disregard? My approach is progressive and focuses on corrective action rather than immediate punishment. First, I initiate a private conversation with the staff member to understand the reasons behind the non-compliance. Then, I provide additional training or clarification as needed. For minor infractions, a verbal warning with a clear expectation of future compliance is sufficient. Repeated violations may necessitate a written warning, followed by further disciplinary measures, up to and including termination, depending on the severity of the breach and the shelter’s disciplinary procedures. Throughout the process, documentation is crucial to maintain a clear record of the incident and the corrective actions taken. For example, if a staff member consistently fails to properly document animal medical treatments, we would provide refresher training on record-keeping protocols; repeated failure would lead to a written warning and further training, with possible consequences for continued non-compliance.

Balancing animal needs with operational constraints requires careful resource allocation and prioritization. This is achieved through a data-driven approach. We track key metrics like animal intake, adoption rates, length of stay, and available resources (staff, space, medical supplies). This information informs our decision-making. For example, if we’re experiencing high intake and limited kennel space, we might prioritize animals requiring urgent medical care or those at high risk of euthanasia due to space limitations. We might also implement temporary intake restrictions or increase outreach efforts to expedite adoptions. Regular staff meetings and operational reviews allow for dynamic adjustments to our strategies, ensuring we effectively manage resources while upholding our commitment to animal welfare. Effective communication with potential adopters regarding shelter capacity also helps manage expectations and ensures responsible pet placement.

Risk management is an integral part of shelter operations. I focus on proactive risk identification and mitigation. This begins with conducting regular safety audits to identify potential hazards, such as slips, trips, falls, animal bites, or exposure to infectious diseases. We then develop and implement safety protocols, including proper handling procedures, personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, and emergency response plans. Furthermore, we maintain thorough records of all animal medical history and any incidents involving animals or staff. This information assists in identifying high-risk animals, assessing potential liability, and adjusting procedures accordingly. Regular employee training and drills are crucial for reinforcing safety protocols and ensuring everyone knows how to react in emergencies. For instance, we’ve implemented a comprehensive bite prevention program for staff, including handling techniques and emergency procedures, significantly reducing the number of animal bite incidents.

Prioritizing policy development projects involves a combination of factors. I employ a risk-based approach. Policies addressing high-risk areas, such as animal safety, biosecurity, staff safety, and legal compliance, are given priority. Next, I consider the urgency and impact of the policy. Projects addressing immediate operational needs or those with significant implications for animal welfare are prioritized. For example, a policy addressing a recent outbreak of a contagious disease would be given immediate attention. Finally, resource availability and stakeholder input inform the prioritization. Projects requiring fewer resources and having strong stakeholder support are generally implemented sooner. Using a project management tool, such as a Kanban board, assists in visualizing project timelines, assigning responsibilities, and tracking progress.

Measuring the success of animal shelter policies requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative data. We use a range of key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

• Live Release Rate (LRR): This is arguably the most crucial metric, representing the percentage of animals entering the shelter who leave alive (through adoption, return to owner, or transfer to another organization). A high LRR signifies effective shelter management and a commitment to saving lives. For example, an LRR above 90% is generally considered excellent.
• Time in Shelter: Tracking the average length of stay for animals helps identify bottlenecks in the adoption process. Shorter stays indicate efficient intake and adoption procedures. We analyze this data to pinpoint areas where improvements in animal care or adoption marketing are needed.
• Adoption Rates: Monitoring adoption rates per species and age group provides insight into animal preferences and shelter marketing effectiveness. A low adoption rate for a specific group might signal the need for more targeted marketing campaigns or specialized care.
• Return to Owner Rate: A high return-to-owner rate is a positive indicator of efficient identification processes, such as microchipping and intake protocols. This shows we’re effectively reuniting lost pets with their families.
• Euthanasia Rate: While this metric might seem negative, tracking it transparently allows us to monitor the success of preventative programs, such as disease control, and assess the effectiveness of our intake process and resource allocation. A low euthanasia rate for reasons other than medical necessity is the ultimate goal.
• Staff and Volunteer Satisfaction: Measuring staff and volunteer morale is crucial, as their well-being directly impacts the care they provide. Regular surveys and feedback sessions help identify issues and improve the work environment, leading to better animal welfare.

By tracking these metrics regularly and analyzing trends, we can make data-driven decisions to continuously improve our policies and practices, ultimately increasing the number of animals we successfully save.

Developing policies related to animal intake and processing requires a systematic approach to ensure efficiency, safety, and animal welfare. My experience involves creating detailed procedures for each step, from initial intake to medical assessment and quarantine.

• Intake Procedures: I’ve developed protocols for registering animals, including thorough documentation of their physical condition, behavioral characteristics, and any identifying features (like microchips or tattoos). This ensures clear records are maintained throughout their stay.
• Medical Assessment: I’ve designed procedures for comprehensive medical evaluations, including vaccinations, parasite treatment, and disease screening, ensuring animals receive appropriate and timely medical attention. This involves clearly defining roles and responsibilities for veterinary staff and volunteers.
• Quarantine Protocols: I’ve established strict quarantine procedures for animals showing signs of illness or those arriving from unknown backgrounds to prevent the spread of disease within the shelter. This includes clearly defining isolation areas, cleaning and disinfection protocols, and monitoring schedules.
• Data Management: Implementing a robust database system to track animals throughout their journey in the shelter is vital. This allows for efficient record-keeping and ensures all necessary information is readily accessible. In my previous role, we implemented a custom database solution that significantly improved data management.

These policies must be regularly reviewed and updated based on best practices, new research, and lessons learned from experience. This iterative process is vital for providing high-quality care and effective management of our intake process.

Humane treatment is the cornerstone of our shelter’s operations. It’s not merely a policy but a deeply ingrained culture. We ensure humane treatment through a multi-pronged strategy:

• Environmental Enrichment: We provide clean, safe, and appropriately sized enclosures with environmental enrichment such as toys, climbing structures, and social interaction (where appropriate). We understand that boredom and lack of stimulation can negatively impact animal health and wellbeing. We have specific guidelines to ensure appropriate enrichment for different species and age groups.
• Stress Reduction: We minimize stress-inducing factors through quiet areas, appropriate handling techniques for staff and volunteers, and a calm atmosphere. We train our staff on the recognition and management of stress indicators in animals.
• Regular Veterinary Care: Comprehensive and preventative healthcare is vital. Regular health checks, vaccinations, and prompt treatment of injuries and illnesses are essential components of our daily operation. We prioritize immediate attention for animals with critical needs.
• Staff Training: We conduct thorough training for all staff and volunteers on animal handling, behavior recognition, and humane care practices. We emphasize positive reinforcement techniques and the importance of respecting animal boundaries.
• Regular Inspections and Audits: Our facility is regularly inspected by external bodies and we also conduct internal audits to ensure compliance with regulations and best practices. We strive for continuous improvement in animal welfare.

We also have a clearly defined reporting structure for anyone who observes any instance of inhumane treatment, ensuring swift and appropriate action is taken.

Developing effective policies for animal adoption and fostering requires careful consideration of both the animals’ needs and the potential adopters’/fosterers’ capabilities. My experience includes:

• Adoption Application Process: I’ve designed comprehensive application processes to thoroughly assess potential adopters’ suitability, ensuring they understand the commitment involved in pet ownership and can provide a safe and loving home. This includes home visits, reference checks, and a detailed interview process.
• Matching System: I’ve implemented systems that match animals with suitable adopters based on factors such as lifestyle, experience with pets, and the animals’ individual needs and temperaments. We use a database that allows us to filter and match based on a variety of factors.
• Fostering Program Development: I’ve developed robust fostering programs, providing comprehensive training, support, and regular communication with foster carers. This includes clear guidelines on animal care, emergency protocols, and fostering agreements.
• Post-Adoption Support: I’ve implemented post-adoption support to assist new adopters and fosterers, reducing the likelihood of animals being returned to the shelter. This can involve phone calls, email support, or even follow-up visits.
• Adoption Contracts: Creating legally sound adoption contracts that clearly outline the responsibilities of adopters, ensuring they understand their commitments and protecting both the animal’s well-being and the shelter’s interests.

These policies are designed to increase successful adoptions and foster placements, promoting long-term well-being for animals.

Euthanasia is a sensitive and challenging aspect of shelter management. We approach it with the utmost compassion and respect for the animal. Our policies prioritize minimizing euthanasia by focusing on preventative care, adoption promotion, and proactive medical interventions. When euthanasia is deemed necessary (typically for terminally ill or severely injured animals with no reasonable chance of recovery), we adhere to strict protocols:

• Veterinary Oversight: All euthanasia decisions are made by a licensed veterinarian, ensuring that the procedure is performed humanely and in accordance with ethical standards and veterinary best practices.
• Pain Management: We provide appropriate pain relief and sedation before and during the procedure to ensure the animal’s comfort and minimize suffering.
• Staff Training: Staff involved in euthanasia receive specialized training and support to ensure they are equipped to handle the emotional and psychological aspects of the process. We offer counseling services and support for staff members.
• Transparency and Documentation: We maintain transparent and detailed records of all euthanasia cases, documenting the reason for euthanasia and the procedures followed. This is critical for accountability and continuous improvement.
• Compassionate Care: Even in the final moments, we strive to provide a calm, quiet, and respectful environment, minimizing any distress for the animal.

Euthanasia is always a last resort, and our ultimate goal is to reduce its necessity through proactive programs aimed at increasing live outcomes.

A policy addressing animal behavior and safety necessitates a multi-faceted approach focusing on both preventative measures and response protocols. The policy should encompass:

• Assessment and Categorization: A system for assessing each animal’s behavior upon intake is essential. This involves careful observation, documentation, and categorization based on temperament and potential risks. This helps in appropriate housing and handling.
• Housing and Management: Animals are housed based on their temperament and compatibility with other animals. Separate housing for aggressive or fearful animals might be needed. Clear signage indicates potential hazards associated with specific animals.
• Staff Training: Comprehensive training for all staff and volunteers on safe handling techniques, recognizing signs of stress or aggression, and understanding canine and feline body language is paramount.
• Preventative Measures: Enrichment programs tailored to different temperaments can minimize behavioral issues. This may include providing puzzle feeders, toys, and appropriate social interactions.
• Emergency Protocols: Clear procedures for handling bites, scratches, or other incidents are necessary, including first aid procedures, reporting protocols, and veterinary attention when required.
• Public Safety: Protocols to minimize risks to visitors and staff should be established, including clearly defined visitor areas, barriers to keep animals secure, and designated areas for interaction with animals.

Regular review and updates of this policy, based on incidents, behavioral observations, and best practices in animal behavior management, are crucial for maintaining a safe environment for both animals and people.

Incorporating stakeholder feedback is crucial for creating effective and widely accepted policies. We use several strategies:

• Surveys and Questionnaires: We regularly survey staff, volunteers, adopters, and even members of the wider community to gather feedback on existing policies and potential areas for improvement.
• Focus Groups: We organize focus groups with representatives from key stakeholder groups to allow for in-depth discussions and brainstorming sessions. This approach facilitates a more nuanced understanding of different perspectives.
• Town Hall Meetings: We host public town hall meetings to gather broad input from community members and allow for open dialogue. This approach builds transparency and encourages community ownership of the policies.
• Advisory Boards: We establish advisory boards composed of experts in animal welfare, veterinary medicine, and related fields to provide valuable guidance and insights into policy development.
• Open Communication Channels: We maintain open lines of communication through regular newsletters, website updates, and social media to keep stakeholders informed and solicit their feedback on an ongoing basis.

Feedback is meticulously analyzed, and policy changes are made only after thorough consideration of the collected data and its implications. Transparency and clear communication throughout the process are vital in ensuring buy-in and support for the resulting policies.

Developing effective volunteer management policies requires a multifaceted approach. It begins with clearly defining roles and responsibilities, outlining expectations for conduct and commitment, and establishing a robust training program. I’ve designed and implemented policies that incorporate a tiered volunteer system, assigning tasks based on skill level and experience. This ensures efficient workflow and maximizes volunteer contributions. For instance, experienced volunteers might handle animal care, while newer volunteers could assist with administrative tasks or cleaning. Furthermore, the policies I’ve developed include clear procedures for volunteer application, screening, and background checks, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the volunteers and the animals. Finally, regular evaluations and feedback mechanisms are crucial for continuous improvement and maintaining high volunteer morale. This involves tracking volunteer hours, assessing performance, and providing opportunities for growth and advancement within the volunteer program.

Creating a comprehensive animal disease prevention policy is paramount to the health and safety of the animals in our care and to preventing outbreaks. My experience involves establishing protocols for quarantine, sanitation, and vaccination. This begins with a thorough intake process for each animal, including a health assessment, deworming, and parasite control. We implement strict biosecurity measures, such as designated areas for sick animals, controlled access to kennels, and mandatory handwashing stations. Our policies also encompass preventative measures like routine vaccinations, regular parasite checks, and prompt isolation of any animal showing signs of illness. Furthermore, staff training on disease recognition, prevention, and appropriate handling procedures is crucial. This includes understanding the risks of zoonotic diseases (diseases transmissible between animals and humans) and implementing necessary precautions. The policy also outlines procedures for reporting suspected cases of illness to veterinary professionals and collaborating with public health authorities when necessary. A robust documentation system, meticulously tracking each animal’s health history and vaccination records, is vital for successful disease prevention.

Efficient and effective resource utilization in an animal shelter requires a strategic approach combining careful planning, data-driven decision-making, and continuous evaluation. This involves optimizing staffing levels, maximizing space utilization, and implementing inventory management systems to minimize waste. For instance, I’ve implemented a system where we track the usage of cleaning supplies, food, and medical resources, allowing us to predict needs and avoid overstocking or shortages. We also regularly analyze adoption rates and animal intake to optimize our space allocation and care strategies. For example, if a particular breed is consistently overpopulated, we might focus on promoting adoptions through targeted marketing or fostering programs. Furthermore, we analyze volunteer contributions to ensure tasks are properly assigned and workloads are balanced. The key is to regularly review processes, identify inefficiencies, and implement solutions based on real-time data and performance indicators.

Budgeting and resource allocation for a shelter operation is a complex task requiring a deep understanding of financial management and operational needs. My experience involves developing detailed annual budgets, forecasting expenses, and securing funding from various sources, including grants, individual donations, and corporate sponsorships. This includes allocating funds for animal care, staffing, utilities, facility maintenance, and program initiatives. I use a zero-based budgeting approach, where each budget item is justified and reviewed annually. This ensures transparency and accountability. Prioritization is key, and I use a data-driven approach, analyzing adoption rates, animal intake numbers, and other relevant data to inform budget allocations. For instance, if we see a rise in the number of animals requiring medical care, I would allocate more resources to veterinary services. Regular monitoring and reporting of expenses are crucial to ensure we remain within budget and address any financial deviations promptly. Furthermore, diversifying funding sources is crucial for the long-term financial stability of the shelter.

Maintaining accurate records of shelter policies and procedures is crucial for accountability, transparency, and efficient operations. I utilize a combination of electronic and physical record-keeping systems. All policies and procedures are stored digitally in a secure, easily accessible database with version control, ensuring that everyone is working with the most up-to-date information. We also maintain physical copies in case of technological failures. A robust filing system, using clear and consistent labeling, allows for quick retrieval of documents. Regular reviews and updates of policies and procedures are also crucial, with clear documentation of any changes made, including the date, rationale, and individual responsible for the update. This includes regularly scheduled reviews by staff, involving input from all relevant stakeholders. This ensures that policies remain relevant and effective, and that staff members are always informed about changes or updates to the shelter’s operational procedures. This system facilitates compliance, audit readiness, and continuous improvement. Additionally, we train all new employees on proper record-keeping procedures.

Technology plays a vital role in supporting shelter policies and procedures, enhancing efficiency and improving animal welfare. I have experience implementing various software solutions, including database management systems for tracking animal records, volunteer scheduling software, and online adoption platforms. For instance, using a cloud-based database allows for real-time access to animal information by staff, volunteers, and veterinary professionals. This improves coordination and reduces errors. Volunteer scheduling software streamlines the process of assigning volunteers to tasks, managing their schedules, and tracking their contributions. An online adoption platform allows for greater visibility of available animals, expanding reach and increasing adoption rates. Furthermore, technology can support communication and collaboration through email, instant messaging, and project management software. Regular technology training for staff is essential to ensure effective utilization and to address potential challenges. The goal is to leverage technology to optimize workflows, improve decision-making, and enhance the overall effectiveness of shelter operations.

Handling crisis situations requires a well-defined emergency response plan. My experience involves developing and regularly testing plans for various scenarios, including natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and security incidents. The plan outlines specific roles and responsibilities for staff and volunteers, communication protocols, and evacuation procedures. This includes designating emergency contact points, having pre-arranged transportation options, and securing safe locations for animals and staff. A key aspect is maintaining clear and consistent communication during a crisis. This involves utilizing multiple communication channels, including email, text messages, and potentially social media, to keep stakeholders informed. Regular drills and training are crucial to ensure that everyone understands their roles and can react effectively in a stressful situation. Following a crisis, conducting a thorough post-incident review is essential to identify areas for improvement in our emergency preparedness plan. This iterative process ensures we are continually learning and enhancing our response capabilities. This includes evaluating the effectiveness of communication, the adequacy of resources, and the overall coordination during the emergency.