Shelter Operations
Communications
Name that Item
Roles and Responsibilities
Logistics and Safety Support
100

This is the very first thing you do when you enter the shelter — no, it’s not grabbing snacks.

What is signing in?

100

This system sends urgent messages to staff 

What is Everbridge?

100

This item rolls, has four wheels, and helps clients move — and no, it’s not a shopping cart.

What is a wheelchair?

100

This team handles registration/check-in and "Where do I go questions.

What is Registration?

100

This team sets up equipment, and prevents “Where did we put that?!” moments.

What is the Logistics Team?

200

This room is where you check in and check out the equipment needed for your shift.

What is the Clyde Room

200

This system can send messages three ways: phone, email, and this third one.

What is text (SMS)?

200

This foldable item pops open when you need a place to rest.

What is a cot?

200

To keep the shelter running smoothly, staff must report this far in advance of their shift

What is 30 minutes.

200

If you see a spill on the floor, you should do this — unless you want to star in “Shelter Slip‑and‑Fall: The Musical.”

What is clean it up and report it immediately?

300

This area serves as the “brain” of the shelter where decisions are made.

What is the Shelter Operations Center (SOC)?

300

This device lets shelter staff talk to each other instantly 

What is a two-way radio or walkie-talkie?

300

This container keeps medications safe and organized

What is the over-the-counter medications box?

300

This staff member is the shelter’s ultimate multitasker: they coordinate operations, solve problems

Who is the Shelter Manager

300

Logistics tracks these to prevent running out of essential supplies.

What is inventory?

400

It’s the one thing every client must have when arrives at the shelter main entrance — and no, “good vibes” doesn’t count.

What is the eligibility ticket?

400

This term refers to the correct and professional way of communicating thru a two-way radio.

What is radio etiquette?

400

This item is used to check if the client is registered in the SpNS registry.

What is an iPad or Laptop?

400

This staff member oversees client care, answers medical questions, and somehow keeps the entire medical team running on schedule - powered mostly by caffeine.

Who is the Nurse Lead?

400

If the shelter runs out of supplies or is missing a specific item, who should be contacted or notified?

What is ESF-8?

500

Before leaving your shift, you're required to do this. hint: the next team will love you for it.

What is a shift debriefing.

500

This is how far in advance you must notify the SOC if you cannot make your shift.

What is at least 2 hours before your start time?

500

This item is lightweight, waterproof, disposable, and often used under clients to protect bedding

What is a chux pad (disposable underpad)?

500

This staff member monitors client flow, resolves registration issues, keeps documentation accurate, and maintains order at the busiest station in the shelter — all without breaking a sweat.

What is Registration Lead?

500

To prevent falls and injuries, shelter staff must ensure these areas remain clear and unobstructed at all times.

What are walkways and exits?