Prepared for anything at the zoo

October 4, 2019

Just as schools have fire drills, Happy Hollow staff also conduct drills to practice important protocols and procedures for emergency situations, including animal escapes, natural disasters and other dangerous situations.

Most drills begin with desktop exercises, making sure every team member knows their roles and responsibilities. Working together is crucial for staff to be able to respond quickly and overcome emergency situations. A recent drill required Happy Hollow staff to respond to three meerkats that escaped from their habitat. Though they are not dangerous animals, and no meerkats actually roamed free during the drill, staff came equipped with suitable safety and recapture equipment.

“The response to an emergency with an animal depends on the type of animal involved, their level of danger to the public, and where the animal is located,” says Zookeeper Brandy, who led a recent safety drill.

Prevention is key, which is why habitats and enclosures are built with adequate space for the animals, and tough materials – such as safety glass and stainless steel mesh. Fences and habitats are also inspected on a daily basis for any signs of wear or compromise.

And while some situations are easily handled by one trained individual without supervision or assistance, others may involve the use of immobilization or capture teams, which requires a great deal of coordination and possible closure of zoo perimeter gates.

From using the radio to alert staff, to bringing the team together to practice the exact procedures for recapture; the team worked quickly and efficiently to move through every part of the simulation – ending with the successful recapture of all three animals.

“You hope to never have to put these skills to use, but preparedness is everything,” says Zoo Manager Kevin Hertell. “These drills happen regularly because we rely on our teams to be ready to act at a moment’s notice to protect the animals, employees, and patrons.” And it’s not just the Zoo team that practice these exercises. Staff from all areas at Happy Hollow – from Guest Services to the Rides team, participate in regular emergency drills. Other examples include lost children scenarios and earthquake response.

“Of course, the goal is to never have an emergency in the first place,” says General Manager Shannon Heimer. “But one can ever predict the full outcome of a natural disaster, and working with wild animals means being ready for any scenario. In any situation, the safety and security of guests, staff and animals are of the utmost importance.”