Every year we practise fire drills and lockdowns with the kids. Generally we do 3 fire drills and one lockdown in the Fall and Spring. Hopefully, we are never in either of these situations, but it is really important that we continue to practice so the kids know what to do just in case.
We just finished practising a "mock" lockdown with the staff and students. During a lockdown the students and teachers stay in their classrooms after an announcement is made from the office. Generally all lights are off, blinds and windows are closed and all glass on the classroom doors is covered under these conditions. The students and teacher are then asked to sit quietly in an area of the room, away from the glass. We've practised this with the school a few times and the staff and students are commended for their efforts. As we walk through the halls, it is eerily quiet. It is evident that everyone takes the practice seriously and we thank them for this.
If we were ever in a real lockdown situation, the police would also set up a command station a few blocks from the school for parents to seek information.
We've also practised our fire drills this month and once again, the children were wonderful. We exit the building very quickly and quietly and also re-enter in the same fashion. The students really know the importance of practising this drill.
Furthermore, if we needed to evacuate the school (i.e. gas leak in the neighbourhood), we would walk to our evacuation site of Kingsway Lambton United Church.
Finally, remember that October is the month we all should be checking smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at home also...check for your "fire safety" pamphlet in the mail. It's has some great tips!
