Why do we complete drills?
The more we drill and practice how to respond to an event, the better prepared we will be in an actual emergency. Drills create muscle memory, which can be lifesaving in a crisis situation by allowing people to react quickly and rely on their training, and not have to think about what to do. Drilling also allows us to see what works well and how to make plans even more effective.
There are five drill events to ensure the safety of all students and staff in an emergency:
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Hold
A hold drill teaches staff and students to remain where they are and continue business as usual. A ‘Hold’ would usually be called to clear the hallways for a medical emergency, physical altercation etc.
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Secure
A secure drill is used when there is a threat on the outside of the building. It teaches all staff and students to get inside, lock outside doors and conduct business as usual.
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Lockdown
A lockdown drill trains staff and students to stay behind a locked door, shut the lights off, remain seated, remain quiet, and out of sight in case of a threat is inside the school.
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Evacuate
An evacuation drill teaches staff and students to exit the building quickly, safely, and efficiently. In a fire drill, students and staff are directed to go to rally points which are pre-determined and are a safe distance away from the building.
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Shelter
Shelter drills are used for emergencies such as a hazmat incident or bad weather (such as a tornado) and trains staff and students to seek shelter in a particular area of the building which is deemed safe. In a tornado this would be a portion of the building which is on the lowest floor, away from windows and doors.
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