TX HHS Form 7243. Emergency Telephone Numbers

Form 7243, titled Emergency Telephone Numbers, is a required posting form for certain regulated operations in Texas, including child care and related facilities. The form is used to clearly display critical emergency contact information in a visible location so that staff can respond quickly in urgent situations.

This document is not an application or report—it is a safety and compliance tool designed to protect children, staff, and visitors by ensuring immediate access to essential emergency numbers.

Purpose of Form 7243

The main purpose of Form 7243 is to ensure that emergency telephone numbers are readily available at all times within an operation. Texas regulations require these numbers to be posted where staff can easily see and use them during emergencies.

The form helps operations:

• Comply with Texas Administrative Code requirements
• Improve emergency preparedness
• Ensure quick access to law enforcement, medical, and protective services
• Demonstrate compliance during inspections

When This Form Is Required

Form 7243 must be completed and posted when:

• A new operation opens and begins providing services
• An operation receives or renews a permit
• Emergency contact information changes
• Licensing rules require updated postings

The form is not required to be submitted to the state unless specifically requested, but it must be available on-site for review during inspections.

Who Is Responsible for Completing the Form

The form is typically completed by the operation’s administrator, director, or designated compliance staff. While no signature is required, the operation is responsible for ensuring the information is accurate, current, and clearly posted.

Explanation of Each Key Section

Operation Information

This section identifies the regulated operation. It includes the operation name, permit number, telephone number, and physical address. Inspectors use this information to confirm that the emergency posting belongs to the correct location.

Emergency Telephone Numbers

This section lists critical emergency contacts that must be available at all times:

• Emergency services (911)
• Emergency Medical Services
• Local police or sheriff’s department
• Fire department
• Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222)
• Texas Abuse and Neglect Hotline (1-800-252-5400)

These numbers ensure staff can respond immediately to medical emergencies, safety threats, or suspected abuse or neglect.

Local Licensing Office Information

This area includes the phone number and address of the local licensing office. It allows staff to quickly contact licensing authorities when guidance or reporting is required.

Child Care Licensing Resources

The form references additional licensing resources, such as compliance history and online reporting tools, to support ongoing regulatory compliance.

Practical Tips for Completing and Posting the Form

• Verify all phone numbers are current and correct.
• Post the form near a working telephone.
• Ensure the form is visible and not covered or damaged.
• Update the form immediately when contact details change.
• Keep a digital copy for internal records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving required fields blank
• Posting outdated or incorrect phone numbers
• Failing to update the form after changes
• Placing the form in an inaccessible location

Legal and Regulatory Context

Form 7243 is required under specific sections of the Texas Administrative Code, including rules governing child care and related operations. These regulations mandate that emergency contact information be posted to protect health and safety and to ensure immediate reporting of abuse, neglect, or emergencies.

Failure to post accurate emergency numbers may result in compliance findings during inspections and could lead to corrective action requirements.

Real-Life Situations Where This Form Is Used

• A child care center posts Form 7243 near the front desk for quick access during emergencies.
• An inspector verifies emergency numbers during a routine licensing visit.
• A facility updates the form after changing local law enforcement contacts.

Documents Commonly Associated with This Form

• Operation permit or license
• Emergency preparedness plans
• Staff emergency procedures
• Incident reporting forms

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Form 7243 submitted to the state?

No, it is posted on-site and reviewed during inspections.

Where should the form be displayed?

It should be posted in a visible location near a telephone.

Does the form need to be updated?

Yes, whenever emergency contact information changes.

Is Poison Control always required?

Yes, the Poison Control number must be included.

What happens if the form is missing?

Missing or incorrect postings may result in compliance findings.

Related Forms

• Emergency Preparedness and Response Plans
• Incident and Injury Report Forms
• Child Care Licensing Compliance Documents
• Abuse and Neglect Reporting Forms

Form Details

• Form Name: Emergency Telephone Numbers
• Form Number: 7243
• State: Texas
• Governing Rules: Texas Administrative Code 744.405, 746.405, 747.403
• Revision Date: June 2018