How do school shooting drills work?
These drills typically require students and school staff to remain on lockdown in a designated area and practice specific emergency procedures, which often include staying quiet, locking the door, and turning off lights, but can also feature tactics such as fighting back, distracting the shooter, and evacuating.
When did schools start doing intruder drills?
Beginning largely after the shooting at Columbine High School in 1999, schools began implementing drills in an effort to protect students from active shooters, and the practice has steadily increased since.
Are school lockdown drills effective?
The National Association of School Psychologists notes on its website, “Lockdowns can save lives and are considered best practice in crisis response. However, depending on circumstances, some lockdowns may produce anxiety, stress, and traumatic symptoms in some students or staff, as well as loss of instructional time.”
Why do schools have drills?
Schools today are conducting various types of drills to protect students, faculty, and staff against armed and violent intruders. The most common type of safety measure involves lockdown drills in which students and adults practice hiding, staying away from doors and windows, and staying quiet.
What are 3 important drills practiced in schools?
Many schools already conduct a variety of these drills (e.g., lockdown, fire, evacuation, reverse evacuation, duck-cover-hold, and shelter-in-place) with students and staff, which allow them to practice the steps they should take in emergency situations.
How many lockdown drills are required per year?
Further, Section 8VAC20-131-260 of the Standards of Accreditation requires that every public school conduct at least two simulated lock-down drills and crisis emergency evacuation activities each school year, one in September and one in January.
What does a lockdown drill at school?
In a lockdown drill, students are to clear the halls and report to the nearest available classroom where they are to hide and stay as silent as possible. These drills are usually designed and implemented with input and assistance from local law enforcement officials.
What types of drills do schools have?
What are the different types of emergency drills?
The most common Take 5 drills are the standard fire drill, communication drill, and first aid drills. Each of these require more in-depth explanations. Fire drills and other emergency drills may not seem necessary precautions for adults in a professional workplace.