Standard Response Protocol

There are situations that require students and staff to “Hold” and remain in their classrooms or stay out of access areas until they hear the "All Clear" to leave the classroom or space in which they were holding. For example, an altercation in the hallway that may require keeping students out of the halls until it is resolved or a medical issue that may require an area to be cleared for emergency responders.

A “Secure Action” is called when there is a possible threat or hazard near the school building that is not specifically targeting the school, such as a wild animal or police activity. “Secure” uses the security of the physical facility to act as protection.

A “Lockdown” is called when there is a threat or hazard inside the school building. From parental custody disputes to an active assailant, a “Lockdown” uses classrooms and school security actions to protect students and staff from the threat. In this case, students will go into a locked classroom or the nearest securable space, turn out lights and stay out of sight.

“Evacuate” is called when there is a need to move people from one location to another for safety reasons. An on-site evacuation is conducted usually because of a mechanical failure that would disrupt the school day, such as a power outage. If it can’t be resolved quickly, the school may have to plan for early dismissal. An offsite evacuation may be necessary when it’s no longer safe to stay in the building for reasons such as a gas leak or bomb threat. If there has been a violent event at the school, an off-site evacuation will almost always be necessary since the school will be deemed a crime scene. In that case, see the PTS Family-Student Reunification Plan for details about how to be reunited with your child. 

A “Shelter” is called when specific protective actions are needed based on a threat or hazard.  Safety strategies may include evacuating to a shelter area, sealing the room, “Drop, cover, and Hold.” Training should include response to threats such as tornadoes, earthquakes, severe weather, wildfires, flooding, materials situations or other local threats.