The Essential 5 Emergency Response Actions

1. Shelter in Place

Implement to isolate students and staff from the outdoor environment and provide greater protection from external airborne contaminants or wildlife. Close windows and air vents, and shut down air conditioning/ heating units.

2. Drop, Cover, and Hold on.

Implement during an earthquake or explosion to protect building occupants from flying and falling debris.

3. Secure the Campus

Initiate for a potential threat of danger in the surrounding community. All classroom/office doors are closed and locked, and all students and staff remain inside until otherwise directed. Instruction continues as planned.

4. Lockdown/Barricade

Initiate for an immediate threat of danger to occupants of a campus or school building and when any movement will put students and staff in jeopardy. Once implemented, no one is allowed to enter or exit rooms for any reason unless directed by law enforcement.

5. Evacuation

Implement when conditions outside the building or off-site are safer than inside or on-site. Requires moving or directing students and staff to move from school buildings to a pre-determined safe location.

Last Update October 2023.

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