Emergencies at Events

Emergencies at Events

This is a list of contacts, numbers and procedures to follow in the event of an emergency.

Remember to stay calm and be clear about the situation when you communicate with others.

Risk Assessments

Risk assessment, including fire escapes and plans are completed as part of the arrival / pre-set up activities at events. Locate the risk assessment for the designated event to complete relevant actions.

Then procedures set out by event organisers’ will be followed.

You can create a new assessment for your event here: https://animalsinmind.uk/risk-assessment

Evacuating Animals

If the animals need to be evacuated for any reason, please calmly place them back in their travel tanks and move them to the designated safe zone as quickly as possible.

Escaped Animals

To keep the animals safe and secure, follow these key steps:

– Never leave animals unattended: Always supervise them to catch any issues early.

– Always double-check tank lids: Make it a habit to verify they’re securely closed every time.

– Ensure container lids fit properly: Check that they match the container size and seal tightly without gaps.

– Use species-specific travel tanks: Choose containers designed for the animal’s needs to minimize escape risks during transport.

If an Animal Escapes

Immediate Action

Close all windows and doors: Do this where possible to contain the area.
Search systematically: Start by checking the immediate vicinity of the enclosure, then work outwards.

Notification

Alert the event organisers: Inform them right away about the escape.
Clear the area: Evacuate to prevent accidental injury to the animal.
Reassure the public: Emphasise that none of the animals are dangerous.
Educate others: Instruct that if anyone spots the animal, they should not touch it but alert the event organisers instead.

If Searches Are Exhausted and Animal Is Still Missing

Inform neighbours: Speak to them about the missing animal and reassure them it’s not dangerous (especially important for tarantulas, scorpions, snakes, and lizards).
Alert local vets: Notify them that the animal is missing.
Alert local animal warden: Inform them of the situation.
Post on social media: Share on local pages that the animal is missing.
Search on foot: Thoroughly check the local vicinity.
Put up posters: Create lost animal posters, including reassurances about the animal’s safety if needed.

Incapacity of Owner

In the event that Lynn Hart and her immediate family are unable to look after the animals due to illness, injury or any other reason, please follow the holiday cover care plan example, then make contact with Jo Manser.

In the event of cessation of Animals in Mind through owner incapacitation, Mr Richard Dewing, of the same address will take care of the animals for rehoming.

In the case of the death or incapacitation of Mr Richard Dewing, Jo Manser will make arrangements for animals to be rehomed at Merrist Wood College, Holly Lane, Worplesdon, Guildford, Surrey. GU33PE. Tel: 07919622722

Incapacity of Owner

In the event that Lynn Hart and her immediate family are unable to look after the animals due to illness, injury or any other reason, please follow the holiday cover care plan example, then make contact with Jo Manser.

In the event of cessation of Animals in Mind through owner incapacitation, Mr Richard Dewing, of the same address will take care of the animals for re-homing.

In the case of the death or incapacitation of Mr Richard Dewing, Jo Manser will make arrangements for animals to be rehomed.

Jo Manser
Merrist Wood College
Holly Lane
Worplesdon
Guildford, Surrey
GU33PE
Tel: 07919 622722

Last updated by Stewart Martin
12 Jan 2026