Emergency Drills - FAQs
What kinds of drills are conducted?
Each school is required to conduct fire drills, lockdown/active shooter drills, and severe weather drills. Other drills may be conducted as well.
Why are drills conducted?
Drills allow students and staff members to practice response procedures. They also allow district personnel and first responders to assess the effectiveness of response plans.
How often are drills conducted?
Each school is required to conduct one fire drill each month, one lockdown/active shooter drill each semester, and one severe weather drill each semester. Principals may conduct additional drills at their discretion.
How are drills conducted?
Each school follows specific procedures when conducting drills. For safety reasons, these procedures are not publicly shared.
Do first responders participate in drills?
Due to the volume of drills, first responders do not participate in all drills. However, they do assist with conducting and assessing some drills at each school throughout the year.
Are students and staff members notified of drills in advance?
Staff members are notified in advance of some drills, usually the first drills of the school year. Specific times of most drills, however, are not shared in advance.
Are mock shooters or blank rounds used during drills?
Mock shooters, blank rounds, and similar props are not used during drills in which students are present. However, such techniques may be used during staff-only drills to enhance training effectiveness.
What should I tell my young child about lockdown drills?
Recommended strategies for discussing lockdown drills vary with the age of the child, but common tips to consider include:
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Discuss the importance of being safe.
- Reassure your child that schools are safe places.
- Explain that bad things can happen at school.
- Describe drills as how we practice being safe when bad things happen.
- Teach your child to listen to the teacher or other responsible adult.
- Allow your child to ask questions; respond in a calm manner.
- Consider practicing drill procedures at home to make your child comfortable with the procedures.