CRISIS RESPONSE PLAN BEAUFORT MIDDLE SCHOOL. Beaufort, S.C.

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1 CRISIS RESPONSE PLAN BEAUFORT MIDDLE SCHOOL Beaufort, S.C. Mrs. Carole T. Ingram, Principal August 2017

2 IMMEDIATE COURSE OF ACTION In the event of a crisis that would call for immediate lockdown of the school due to the high potential threat of serious bodily harm or death to the staff, students, and visitors, LOCKDOWN will be announced over the intercom 3 times to alert the crisis management team and to activate the Emergency Lockdown Procedure Plan. Specific codes and incident location will be given to the team when deemed necessary by the Principal. (Ex: to prevent personnel from entering an area that may endanger life.) The Crisis Management team will follow the procedures of the specific code as outlined in this package. Principal or designee and School Resource Office will be advised of the particular code immediately. 1. School Resource Officer or School Personnel will notify Principal or Designee will notify the District Office. The Principal will also designate where the parents and media can be during the crisis. Parents and media will not be allowed to roam the school grounds or building. Note: For the purpose of this document, Principal means the administrator in charge of the building and SRO means the law enforcement officer in charge. The Principal and School Resource Officer depending on the location of the incident will determine Command Post. Primary: principal s conference room (A 116); Alternates: band room (H 2) and the computer lab (E 3). Responsible public safety officials may change the location. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES LOCKDOWN - Alerts the Emergency Crisis Team and activates the Emergency Lockdown Plan. It is the highest security alert status and is used when a major incident is occurring at or around the school. FIRE ALARM - Evacuates the building. BOMB THREAT NO HAND-HELD COMMUNICATION DEVISES (eg. CELL PHONE, PAGER, RADIO) WILL BE USED! The principal may give verbal commands over the PA system to evacuate the building and go to the predetermined assembly areas, usually the baseball and football fields. 1

3 Table of Contents General Manmade Incidents Accidents Natural Disasters Appendices Immediate Course of Action Table of Contents Purpose, Objectives of the Plan Color Codes Crisis Management Team Management Team Duties Lockdown Procedures, Evacuation Protocol In Place Shelter, Late Start, Early Dismissal, No School Emergency Kits, Class Crisis Management Packet Intruder/Suspicious Person on Campus Civil Disturbances/Fights Bomb Threats/Suspicious Package Person with a Weapon on Campus Missing Student/Kidnapping Hostage Situation Fallen Airplane Fire Hazardous Materials Injury/Sexual Assault, Death Transportation Accident Utility Failure Earthquake Flooding Hurricane Thunderstorm Tornado A: Bomb Threat Report Form B: Bomb Threat Level Examples C: Gang Related Activities D Special Events Incidents E: Annual Start Up Procedures, Parent Letter F: Training and Drills G: Crisis Response Evaluation H: Crisis Response Team Report I: Family Reunification J: BMS Maps K: First Aid ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPLEMENT includes: Duty Location for Emergency Responders, Emergency Entrance of BMS, District/Contracted Agency Phone Numbers, Bus Lists, Quarterly Class Schedules, Staff Skills Survey, Staff Phone Tree, and forms. 2

4 PURPOSE The Purpose of this Crisis Management Plan is to provide a useful framework for coping responsibly with various disasters that could occur at Beaufort Middle School and to assign responsibilities to meet these emergencies. OBJECTIVES OF THE PLAN The Crisis Management Plan has as its primary objectives: 1. To save lives and avoid injuries; 2. To safeguard school property and records; 3. To promote a fast, effective reaction in coping with emergencies; 4. To restore conditions back to normal with minimum confusion as promptly as possible. For these objectives to be achieved they will require clear activation procedures and responsibilities, identification of all tasks to be performed and by whom, and organized, yet flexible response, and a dedication and cooperation of all. It is vital to the continued functioning of the school and its staff and students that we are prepared to respond effectively in times of emergencies. Such preparation will also help us to meet our obligations to the community. This plan has been developed to be used in case of emergency. All members of the faculty and staff and other employees should: 1. Familiarize themselves with this plan, 2. Be prepared to activate it immediately, 3. Perform any duties to which they are assigned to make its activation effective. Parts of the plan are to be posted in classrooms and shall be in a prominent spot. All who use that room should familiarize themselves with the provisions as they apply to that room. Teachers should make sure substitutes are aware of this plan and the functions substitutes will be required to perform. Members of the faculty will teach the emergency response plan to the students. The members of each classroom shall be instructed in the evacuation plan so they can respond immediately upon receiving the necessary warning. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES during LOCKDOWN Teachers will lock their classrooms and otherwise secure their work areas. Any student outside of a classroom will be brought into the nearest classroom and kept there until the situation is over. Teachers will brief students that the school has been placed on a heightened security status as a response to an apparent crisis situation, advise the students to remain quiet until more can be learned about the situation, and calmly begin to review evacuation procedures. 3

5 Check roll, account for all students and add the names of any students who were brought into your classroom. a count of your students to Mrs. Nance (BMS Security); give names of any students who are missing from your room and the names of any students who have been brought into your room for safety. From the time that door is locked maintain as quiet a class as possible. Keep students below windowsill level and away from windows. Select the appropriate Emergency Status Cards (red, yellow, or green) from the Crisis Management Packet; hang one on the classroom door window and hang one in an outside window as well. Classes not showing a card will be considered as using red cards. Avoid using classroom telephones, if possible. - Green Card: All students accounted for and protocol has been properly implemented. - Yellow Card: Not all students are present or teacher has critical information in reference to the crisis. - Red Card: Injured victims or persons needing medical attention are located in that room. Staff who are on their planning period and do not have any student responsibility, should help clear hallways, restrooms, and adjacent school grounds, taking any students to the nearest secure classroom, and then report to the office for possible assignment. Make sure to use all caution while in the hallway and work with the authorities. The administrative staff will help to check and secure all halls and restrooms; if students are in these rooms they will be taken into the closest secure classroom and kept there until situation is over. An administrator or appointed teacher will secure classrooms that are being managed by substitute teachers. Appointed staff will coordinate securing of all exterior doors. If an emergency occurs during lunch, the students will be taken into the nearest safe area, either the gym or back into the cafeteria. The teachers and staff on lunch duty will remain with the students until the situation is secure. Students who are in classrooms during the lunchtime will be kept there until the all clear is announced. Only the person who initiated the emergency response can give the all clear. Every teacher should document any activity that occurred during the emergency situation and offer suggestions as to how things could have been better managed (Appendix G). HIGH ALERT A higher alert status is generally used when serious incidents have occurred near the school or for minor on campus incidents. The principal will make the notification of HIGH ALERT. All students will be kept inside of the classroom with the door locked during each class period. Students will proceed to their assigned classes, if they are not in class at the time the protocol is implemented. Teachers will lock their doors once the hallways near their rooms 4

6 are clear of students. If teachers observe imminent danger near their rooms, they will notify the main office by telephone. They should display their Emergency Status Cards in an outside window and on the hall door. Teachers will brief the students that the school has been put on a heightened security status as a precaution and that no imminent danger has been detected. Students will not be allowed to leave the classroom unless the teacher obtains authorization from the main office. If the situation necessitates so, then all activities outside of the building will be moved indoors. School staff not assigned to classroom duties should lock their rooms and help clear the hallways and restrooms of students, taking any students to the nearest secure classroom. Then report to the main office for possible duty, proceeding carefully through halls. While the High Alert Protocol is in effect, teachers should only open classroom doors for staff members unless clearance is obtained from the main office. ALL CLEAR ALL CLEAR is issued when the incident has been resolved and the school is returning to a normal operation status. The principal may make a brief announcement to inform school staff and students as to why the crisis management plan was utilized. If needed the principal will prepare a written statement to send home with students to provide parents with an accurate account of what the school did to provide a safe environment during the incident. At the discretion of the school district or principal, a debriefing may be held for students, parents, and staff members to discuss the incident. EVERY SITUATION IS A LEARNING EXPERIENCE 5

7 Campus Crisis Management Team Principal Mrs. Carole Ingram c h Assistant Principals Guidance Counselors Mr. Derek Skaggs c Ms. Carrie Chappell c Ms. Margaret Hiner School Nurse Mrs. Mary Winburn / c School Resource Officer Cafeteria Staff Member Other Staff Officer Hebrard / c Ms. Barbara Singleton Mrs. Lisa Hill Mrs. Karen Plair Mrs. Donna Nance Mr. Nicholas Field Media Specialist School Social Worker Head Custodian Dr. Laura Richardson Mrs. Dana Mullins Ms. Walker

8 Crisis Management Team Duties The members will function as parts of the team, serve for at least two years, will handle multiple duties as a team member, meet with other team members for planning and post intervention, keep records of duties performed, and participate in training. TEAM LEADERS Principal Assistant Principals School Counselors Office staff members School Resource Officer Custodian Cafeteria Staff Member Nurse or First Aider PE Coaches Media Specialist RESPONSIBILITY Calls District Office, talks to media and emergency response officials, goes to the scene with police officials. Assume responsibilities as directed by the principal, coordinate student services, relay information to the district, identify students, assist staff, locate records. Calm students, notify district counseling team, coordinate debriefings, and talk with parents and staff families. Make 911 and parent calls, direct persons to campus locations, read prepared script as requested. Provides law enforcement services, acts as liaison to emergency personnel from other agencies. Assist officials with on-site facility area and control panels. Coordinates use of space for assembly, sets up food, ice, and drinks. Triages injured persons in the cafeteria, identifies students with known medical problems, and brings first aid supplies. (If the cafeteria is not available, the science rooms on B hall or the art room on C hall will be alternate locations.) Assist with assembly of students, triage injured persons in the cafeteria, identify students. (If the cafeteria is not available, the science rooms on B hall or the art room on C hall will be alternate locations.) Assists with calming students, makes phone calls, directs parents to student pick up area. 7

9 LOCKDOWN PROCEDURES A school-wide lockdown may be ordered at any time there is a threat to the safety and security of students and teachers. It is imperative that all personnel follow lockdown procedures quickly and completely. When LOCKDOWN" is announced, all teachers and other staff must follow these procedures: 1. Teachers sweep the hallway, rest rooms, and adjacent areas to their classrooms / areas and take in all students who may not safely and immediately return to their own classrooms. 2. Close and lock all classroom/area doors and windows. DO NOT OPEN DOORS FOR ANYONE; administrators or any other authorized person will have keys. 3. Stop class work, turn off classroom lights and move the students away from windows and doors where they should crouch down below window sill level. 4. Take roll and keep a written roster. Should you be asked to move, take the roster and the Classroom Crisis Management Packet with you and provide the roster to authorities when asked. Account for all students who are absent and those who are present, including students you have taken in for safety ( BMS Security). 5. Display the appropriate Emergency Status cards. 6. Do not tie up telephones or attempt to place calls to other offices or people outside of the building. 7. Remember that appropriate, calm, purposeful management on the part of supervising adults will help students to cope with the situation. 8. Cooperate fully with emergency personnel. 9. Do not dismiss by the clock, wait until given instructions or an ALL CLEAR is given. ONLY THE VOICE OF THE PERSON WHO BEGINS A LOCKDOWN CAN END IT, IGNORE ANY OTHER VOICE. 10. In the special instructional areas, lock entrances and: o Cafeteria: Stay in the cafeteria unless instructed to do otherwise. o Gym: All students in the area should report to the band room. o Media Center: Stay in the media center and follow the directions of the media specialists. o If engaged in outdoor activities, teachers determine whether it is safer to attempt to return to the building or to seek shelter in the safest place available. When lockdown is employed and you may have other students in your class that are not on your class roll (students that you bring into your class that are not enrolled in your class), follow these Do's and Don'ts DO: Allow any and every child in the area of your classroom to enter your room immediately, NO EXCEPTIONS. Settle the class, move them away from windows and doors with lights out in the room. Write down the names of every child in your room. 8

10 the names of every child in your room that are not on your class roll to BMS Security in the front office. the names of every child that should be in your class that is missing to BMS Security. Lock doors and windows, remain calm and await further instructions from the person who called for the Lockdown. DON'T: Panic Close the door on any child before locking your door Go into the halls to direct student movement Monitor the halls. (This is not the time to be a hero or traffic cop) Display any signs of negativity or fear to the children. (Whether it is a drill or the real thing, we must all follow the procedures to the letter) Allow any child to use any telephone (including cell phones) to call anyone The point in a lockdown is to clear the halls immediately and lockdown everything. Our whole objective is to safely clear the halls immediately (hopefully within 15 to 30 seconds) and lockdown everyone and everything at Beaufort Middle School. EVACUATION PROTOCOL In the event of a school related crisis situation it may be necessary to evacuate the school. This will be done in one of two ways depending on the incident. Controlled Evacuation: A controlled evacuation is used when the school is in LOCKDOWN and law enforcement personnel are evacuating the school. Teachers and students will remain in their classrooms until law enforcement personnel escort them to the awaiting evacuation vehicles or walk students to the evacuation site. Teachers will bring their class record books and Classroom Crisis Management Packet. General Evacuation: A general evacuation is used when the incident does not call for a controlled evacuation or if a controlled evacuation is not possible at the immediate time evacuation becomes critical. Teachers will select a primary or secondary route provided by their Crisis Management Packet. Teachers will close their classroom doors after following their students out of the class. Teachers will bring their class record book and Classroom Crisis Management Packets with them during the evacuation. The first student in line will be instructed to hold open the exit door until all persons in the class have evacuated. This procedure will be repeated until all students are clear of the building. Classes will proceed to the designated assembly area. Once their teachers will take roll and make note of any students who are missing and furnish those names to the front office staff as soon as possible. Teachers will display their Emergency Status Cards as follows: o Red Cards will be displayed if a teacher has an immediate need. 9

11 o Yellow Cards will be displayed if the teacher needs to communicate information or concerns. o Green Cards will be displayed if all students assigned to them are present and have no needs/concerns. Teachers will remain with their classes until otherwise instructed. The principal will determine whether the students will go home, or any further action should be implemented. If students are released before regular hours, follow the Family Reunification Procedures (Appendix I). EVACUATION OF SCHOOL GROUNDS In the event that the school cannot be reoccupied following an evacuation, it may be necessary to evacuate the school grounds. If the weather is bad, we will evacuate to a predetermined site as soon as possible. If the weather is nice, we will wait on school grounds until we can evacuate to another school. We will have a predetermined site for school ground evacuation and the principal will have a key to that building if needed. Our teachers will be responsible for disciplining our students if we are evacuated to another school. The principal will call the Superintendent, the District Office, Emergency Manager, and First Student. In the event we need to provide lunch, the principal will notify the School District. Before leaving BMS, the Emergency Response Team will pick up a School Emergency Kit and a first aid kit. Before leaving the school grounds, the principal will post a notice on the front door, bus/car rider pick up areas, or other conspicuous place where the students are being evacuated, so that parents can pick students up. IN PLACE SHELTERING An accidental release of hazardous materials may require the evacuation of people from certain areas to prevent injury or death. Schools may be affected during the course of the incident, through wind shift, or a change in site conditions. If contacted by police or fire about evacuation, the principal will contact the District Office for further instructions and decide to generally evacuate to homes, another school, or another location. Airborne toxicants can move downwind so rapidly that there would be no time to evacuate residents. For short time releases, often the most prudent course of action for the protection of nearby schools would be to remain inside with the doors closed, and the heating and air conditioning systems shut off. An airborne cloud will frequently move past quickly. If In-Place Sheltering is chosen as the most sensible course of action, the following guidelines must be followed: 1. An announcement over the PA system will indicate that In Place Sheltering is in effect. 2. Close all exterior doors and close and lock all windows (for a better seal). Seal gaps under doorways with wet towels, and around those doorways and windows with duct tape (or similar thick tape) and sheets of plastic. 3. Ventilation systems should be set for 100% recirculation if possible, or turned off. 4. Turn off all heat and air conditioners. 5. Be prepared to evacuate quickly if directed. 6. Tune in to the Emergency Alert System channel on radio or TV for information concerning the hazardous materials incident. NO SCHOOL NOTIFICATION If inclement weather occurs during the night, which makes driving hazardous, or for any other emergency identified by the superintendent, and such conditions are known by 7:00 AM. 10

12 a No School announcement will be made over local radio and TV stations. (See Appendix I) LATE START For whatever unforeseeable reason, it might be necessary for the school to begin classes late. One possible situation could be an early morning snow or ice, which would cause the roads to be closed temporarily. In such a situation, the superintendent would make the decision to start school late. EARLY DISMISSAL Should there be an incident or situation that results in parents wishing to take their children out of school, or if there is to be a dismissal of the entire student body from the stadium, the following plans will be in effect: DISMISSAL FROM WITHIN THE SCHOOL BUILDING: 1. The school may be placed in lockdown to facilitate control. 2. If necessary, additional law enforcement will be sought to facilitate order and/or control. 3. The principal will notify Durham bus services and arrange for early bus arrival. 4. Plans will be activated to limit access to outside lines and permit telephone inquiries to be handled consistently by designated personnel. 5. Parents will not be permitted to enter any other part of the building than the front office or assigned student pickup area. 6. The principal and other assigned staff will be in the designated student pickup area to give accurate information and facilitate the signing out of students. 7. Only a parent or guardian may sign out a student. 8. Office personnel will facilitate and assist the attendance verifying parent identification and complete sign-out. 9. Students will be called from classrooms for sign-out as determined by administration. (See Appendix I) DISMISSAL FROM THE STADIUM: 1. The principal will notify Durham bus services to arrange for early bus arrival. 2. If necessary, the perimeter of the school will be blocked off by law enforcement. 3. Teachers will be responsible for grouping their students and taking roll at the stadium. Teachers must remain with their classes at all times. Staff without classes will help direct the placement of classes and assist with bus loading. 4. Buses will park on East Center Drive. 5. Students will be dismissed by bus number and by neighborhood. 6. Each driver must provide an accurate list of students boarding the bus or other vehicle on campus to a faculty member or administrator before leaving the area. 11

13 7. No student will leave the campus without being signed out. (See Appendix I) 8. The SRO will coordinate directing traffic. SCHOOL EMERGENCY KITS There will be three fully equipped kits placed strategically in the building: Nurses Office (A1) Front Gallery Classroom (E3) and Band room (H2) (alternate command posts) The kits are to be assembled and maintained. Contents: Crisis Management Plan (with Administrative Supplement) Active student list for the quarter Staff contact information Bus route list with drivers names 6 flashlights (with extra batteries) 15 legal pads 30 ball point pens 20 permanent markers 500 peel-off stickers Local phone book Fully charged bull horn/megaphone 3 clipboards 10 reflective vests or similar identifying garb First aid kit Portable solar or battery powered radio (with extra batteries) CLASSROOM CRISIS MANAGEMENT PACKET In a large zippered bag in each classroom: Evacuation map showing a primary and secondary route (a separate copy will be posted near each classroom door) Pen and paper 9 emergency status cards (3 each of green, yellow, and red) Lockdown and evacuation procedures Names and phone numbers of crisis management team members Gloves, bandages Class rosters for each class using the room, replace list each quarter 12

14 Staff ID card copy Teacher s name card First aid chart CAMPUS INTRUDER An intruder or suspicious person is someone who is alien to the school environment and whose presence in the school is uninvited and un-welcomed. By law, schools have the right to search all individuals on a school campus or on school buses; signs are posted around the campus to inform everyone of this law. Prevention: The campus shall have clearly posted signs at the building entrances to direct visitors to the front office and to obtain a visitor s pass. Discourage students and staff from opening locked doors for others, as this will breach school security. Intervention: If faculty or staff observes an unfamiliar person on campus who is not wearing a visitor s pass, staff members should challenge the person; if the visitor has a legitimate reason to be on campus he/she should be escorted to the front office to receive visitors pass. From a classroom, a teacher should use the phone to request assistance from the office and give a description of the intruder. If it is determined that the person is a possible threat, becomes hostile, or refuses to cooperate; the principal and the School Resource Officer will be notified to have the person escorted off campus. Be able to give a description of the person. If a lockdown was initiated the principal will then issue the command we are in a Lockdown, stating the incident has been resolved. The faculty and staff will not engage in any possibly violent confrontation. CIVIL DISTURBANCE Civil Disturbance is any incident including fights, riot, uprisings, or threats of violence, which will disrupt the business of education in a school setting. Prevention: The staff will maintain sensitivity to the emotional climate of the campus and attempt to diffuse any tensions prior to eruption. Teachers should be at their classroom doors when students move from class to class. Teachers are expected to attend all assemblies and sit with their classes. Teachers are expected to monitor doors near their classrooms for people who should not be in the building. Teachers and administrators are available for control before and after school. 13

15 The front office is aware of substitutes in the building and teachers in adjoining classrooms may be available to assist substitutes in controlling students if the need should arise. The teacher who is absent provides each substitute with lesson plans, whether by direct communication, previously prepared plans, or emergency plans on file in the office and the Classroom Crisis Management Packet. Teachers are assigned to lunchroom and hall duty every day. Administrators are available to assist if needed. Intervention: 1.In the event of a civil disturbance, the principal and the SRO will be notified immediately. They will respond to the location of the disturbance, assess the situation, and assist with crowd control if necessary. 2.If a civil disturbance is confirmed the principal may announce LOCKDOWN or HIGH ALERT. 3.Custodians and appropriate teachers will secure areas of the campus, such as project rooms, kitchens, or labs, which could provide potential weapons or be targets of vandalism. 4.Teachers will keep all students secure in the classrooms until further instructions from the principal. Roll should be taken to ensure that there are no missing students and names of any missing students must be reported to the front office immediately. 5.The media will be taken to a secure location principal or the SRO will talk to the media. and updated as developments dictate. Only the 6.Parents will be taken to a secure location and will not be allowed to roam the school or go to any classroom; students will be called from classes/brought to the parents (Appendix I). 7.If evacuation is necessary, transportation will be notified. An officer or staff member will be at entrances to ensure that only buses are allowed to enter the bus port. 8.The staff and students will be instructed over the PA what to do when the situation has been resolved and ALL CLEAR is announced (See Appendix I for reunification). 9.Staff involved in the situation will be asked to complete Appendix G, Crisis Response Evaluation. Any staff member involved in trying to contain the incident will carry out the following: Approach the disturbance in at least pairs, when possible. Avoid verbal exchanges or arguments when a disturbance is escalating. Clearly communicate to all students the location to which they should proceed. Attempt to isolate and contain the situation. Remove "layers" in order to isolate students from the area and return them to class. Render first aid to injured students or staff. Record and report the names of all students and/or outsiders involved in the disturbance. Give a written report of the incident to the SRO if needed. Do not allow removed students access to lockers or other areas where weapons may be available. If persons from outside our school are involved, the same procedure as with any violent person should be implemented: bring the students into the classroom, lock the door, and call the office. Classroom staff not immediately involved will: 14

16 ..... Staff will maintain sensitivity to the emotional climate of the campus and attempt to diffuse any tensions prior to eruption. Custodial staff will secure areas that may be targeted for major vandalism. Custodial staff and appropriate teachers will secure areas of the campus, such as labs or project rooms, which could provide potential weapons. Teachers will keep all students secure in classroom until further instructions from the principal. Roll call should be taken to ensure that there are no missing students. Notify the front office immediately of any missing students use colored cards). The staff and students will be instructed what to do when the situation has been resolved and ALL CLEAR & Lockdown is over is announced. Prevention: BOMB THREAT / SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE All bomb threats will be treated as if a bomb is present. Each morning, all school personnel should check their areas for any suspicious packages or items. Suspicious items should never be moved or touched. The principal should be immediately notified of a suspicious item and the area isolated until the SRO has made an assessment of the suspicious package. All rooms should be locked when not used. Cleaning and maintenance personnel should lock all doors after cleaning of rooms. Persons who handle mail and packages should be trained on the recognition and handling of suspicious packages. Telephone Procedures: Information should be recorded on the Bomb Threat Report Form (see Appendix A). Persons who receive incoming calls should become familiar with the details of, and logic underlying, the telephone technique and procedure for handling bomb threats. Do not hang-up the phone in which the call came in on. Keep it open and use another phone to call 911. DO NOT USE HAND HELD DEVISES (eg. RADIOS, CELL PHONES). Intervention: Do not touch anything suspicious, but look for things that "don t belong". For the classroom teacher: 1. Notify the principal immediately if a call or verbal threat is received. 2. Follow all evacuation procedures if an alarm is sounded. 3. Students and staff should take only those personal belongings in their immediate possession when evacuation is ordered (including backpacks). If the school receives a bomb threat via telephone: 1.If a bomb threat is received at the school phone, the individual receiving the threat should follow the checklist on how to handle a bomb threat (Appendix A). 15

17 2.Immediately advise the principal and SRO about the situation; they will evaluate the bomb threat level (Appendix B) and decide on the appropriate reaction. 3.Evacuate the building, using standard fire drill evacuation procedures and audible/visual signals if directed. Teachers will take their Classroom Crisis Management Packets and immediate possessions. Students also should take immediate possessions. 4.Don t use any portable phones (cellular) or hand held radio transmitters during a bomb threat. Any radio wave transmission could detonate an explosive device. The staff will check their areas for any odd or suspicious items as they leave. 5.The phone on which the threat was received must remain off the receiver for tracing purposes. After the threat has been confirmed, the principal will immediately EVACUATE over the PA and the teachers then will take their students to a predetermined assembly point at least 300 feet from the building (far end of the football field) with a reminder not to use cell phones. If possible sweep the evacuation area before arrival to check for secondary devises and hazards. If evacuation is required in inclement weather, bus transportation will be requested. If a suspected explosive device is discovered, or if an explosion actually occurs, gas and electricity should be turned off at the main valve or switch to minimize the possibility of fire or another explosion. 6.During evacuation, teachers and staff should be observant of any suspicious items or packages. These should not be touched, but reported to the SRO. 7.Teachers should try to open a classroom window as they are evacuating the building. 8.Upon reaching the evacuation assembly point, teachers must take roll and display the appropriate color emergency status card. 9.Once the building is declared safe, the principal will issue ALL CLEAR to return and staff will be asked to complete Appendix J, Crisis Response Evaluation. Suspicious Packages The school may receive suspicious packages in the mail or via hand delivery. School Personnel may also find suspicious packages on school grounds. Upon receipt of a suspicious package, school personnel should not handle the package, and should isolate persons from the immediate area. The Principal and School Resource Officer should be notified immediately. Suspicious Package Indicators: Lumps, bulges, or protrusions Lopsided or heavy-sided appearance Handwritten addresses or labels from companies with incorrect information or address components; Check to see if the company exists and if they sent the package or letter to the school Excess postage on a small package or letter indicates that the object was not weighed by the Post Office No postage or non-canceled postage Handwritten notes, such as: To be opened in the privacy of" Improper spelling of common names places or titles Generic or incorrect titles 16

18 Leaks, stains or protruding wires, string, tape, etc. DOCUMENTING THREATENING PHONE CALLS: Remain calm, listen carefully and attempt to document the EXACT words spoken by the caller, using the Bomb Threat Checklist (Appendix A). Note the number of the caller if the phone is so equipped. Ask questions to keep the caller on the line as long as possible to facilitate a trace. Do not interrupt the caller. Try to secure the attention of a fellow worker to start the notification process. Be circumspect about comments that may be overheard by students or others in the office area. Do not hang up. Prevention: REPORT OF A WEAPON ON CAMPUS All staff should be aware that the Code of Student Conduct, Board of Education Policies, and State and Federal laws provide for zero tolerance for weapons on campus and cite consequences for having/using weapons on school property. All staff should strive to "keep an ear to the ground" to be aware of rumors, student talk, and other indicators that a weapon may be on campus. Weapons may be defined not only as firearms, but razors, mace, sticks, pipes, chains, and any other object that may be used to injure others. Educate students on the dangers and consequences of carrying weapons to school. Signs are posted in prominent locations around the school in reference to weapons on school property and of consent to search. Keep open lines of communication with students, so they will feel comfortable in reporting weapons on campus. Intervention: 1. The faculty or staff member will notify the SRO or the principal. 2.Staff members should not confront any person with weapon. 3.Determine the identification of the student, location, and type of weapon, if possible. 4.The principal and SRO will determine the degree of danger posed to the entire school by the person in possession of the weapon and determine a course of action. 5.If low threat level: a.if a staff member suspects that a student is in possession of a weapon, the SRO or the principal will escort the student to the office. 6.If high threat level: a.if a staff member is certain that a student in possession of a weapon, the SRO and principal will secure the area. b. SRO will call for assistance. 7.Once LOCKDOWN is given, teachers will: a. Hold students in the classrooms and allow no student to leave the room for any reason. b. Lock the door to the classroom. If the teacher does not have a key to the room, he or she should call the front office. c. Roll should be taken to ensure all students are present. Make a list of student(s) who are missing. Use emergency status cards. 17

19 d. If a teacher is in an area that cannot be secured, he/she should immediately take his/her students to the nearest classroom or area of safety and notify the front office of the location. e.school personnel should not attempt to confront, escort, or search a student suspected of being in possession of a weapon, without the presence of the SRO. f. If a weapon is located, the SRO will immediately secure it. If school personnel find the weapon, it will be reported to the SRO and principal immediately. No school personnel will touch the weapon in question if at all possible If possible, attempt to aid any victims and to protect them from further harm until EMS arrives. Appointed staff will lock all exterior doors to the building and secure all other assigned doors, then report to a secure area and notify the front office of that location. 3. Media will be sent to an area designated by the principal and remain there. updated about the situation as deemed necessary by the principal. They will be Parents and or guardians will be taken to a location designated by the principal and remain there with a guidance counselor or designee until the situation is resolved. They will be updated of the situation as deemed necessary by the principal. Remember a crisis scene also may be a crime scene. No attempt to clean up blood or other evidence should be made without the permission of law enforcement. As soon as possible after the incident is over and the campus is secured, the command lockdown is over will return and all key personnel will meet to critique how the incident was handled and suggest ways to improve. (Appendices G and H). Prevention: MISSING STUDENT / KIDNAPPPING 1.All students will be required to sign out of the school according to the attendance policy. 2.The front office and attendance will have a list of persons who, by court order provided by parents or guardians, are not allowed to pick up a student. 3.All visitors must sign in and wear a visitor s badge.. Strangers will be challenged by faculty and staff and escorted to the front office to sign in and receive identification. 4.Assure through proper questioning that the individual is authorized to sign a student out from campus by follow-up telephone calls, a check of student data, or verification of written permission if indicated. Intervention: 1.Suspicion that a student has been abducted should be reported to the principal and SRO immediately. 2.The principal will notify the parent/guardian and the district office. 3.If any witnesses observed the incident, they will be brought to the front office and separated from each other until the SRO arrives to interview them. 4.The guidance counselor or front office staff will locate the missing student s file and any available picture. 5.The principal may announce LOCKDOWN. 18

20 6.If LOCKDOWN is given, teachers will immediately account for all students. If any student is not accounted for, his or her name must be reported to the front office immediately and use emergency status cards. HOSTAGE SITUATION / BARRICADED SUBJECT Prevention: All staff should be constantly alert for strangers on campus and follow procedures in place for reporting unauthorized persons. There is no substitute for the collective eyes and ears of a staff alert to the nuances of the school s climate. Report any rumors or suspicions immediately to the principal or the SRO. Intervention: 1.If a hostage situation is observed, immediately notify the principal and the SRO. 2.If a hostage situation is confirmed, the principal may announce LOCKDOWN and the LOCKDOWN protocol will be followed. 3.The SRO will notify the Beaufort Police Department and EMS as necessary. 4.Upon hearing LOCKDOWN, teachers will: a. Hold students in the classroom and wait for instructions from the principal. b. Call roll to ensure there are no missing students. If there are any missing students, the front office is to be contacted immediately (use emergency status cards). c. If a teacher is in an area that cannot be secured, he/she will immediately take his/her students to the nearest classroom or area of safety and notify the front office of the location. 1.Assigned staff will: a. Lock all exterior doors to the building. b. Secure all other assigned doors. 2.All staff personnel who are not monitoring classrooms at this time are responsible for clearing the hallways, restrooms and adjacent school grounds and for taking any students to the nearest monitored secure area. When the area is clear, the staff member will also report to a secure location and report the front office of that location. 3.If evacuation is necessary, transportation will be notified. Only buses will be allowed in the bus port area. There will be an officer assigned to each entrance to keep outside traffic out of that area. If this is a stationary hostage situation (confined to one room or area), evacuation of the immediate area would begin there. If the subject is not confined or isolated the school will remain in lockdown. 4.AT NO TIME will school personnel attempt to negotiate with hostage takers or barricaded subjects. 5.Media will be taken to a location designated by the principal and remain there. They will be updated as developments dictate. The principal and SRO will talk with media. 6.Parents will be taken to the area designated by the principal. They will not be allowed to roam the school or go to any classroom. A guidance counselor or designated staff member will stay with parents and be of assistance if possible. 7.The staff and students will be instructed what to do when the situation has been resolved and ALL CLEAR & Lockdown is over given. 8.As soon as possible after the incident is over and the campus is secured, all involved personnel will meet to critique how the incident was handled and suggest ways to improve (Appendices G and H). If you or your group are taken hostage: 19

21 Stay calm and don t try to be a hero. Try to manage student behavior by calm, purposeful modeling. Follow the directions of the person with the weapon. Cooperate, be friendly if possible, and don t argue or antagonize the person with the weapon or any hostages. Inform the captor of any medical or other needs. Don t try to escape. Don t try to resolve the situation by force or otherwise. Be observant: remember everything you see and hear. If rescue takes place, lie down and stay down. FALLEN AIRCRAFT Prevention: Practice instructing all children to immediately duck under their desks, covering their heads, and await an all clear from the teacher if a very low approaching aircraft is heard. Intervention:. The principal will determine which action, if any, should be implemented. Where necessary, teachers will take immediate action for the safety of students without waiting for direction from the principal. All students and staff will stay a safe distance allowing for a possible explosion (500 feet: the far end of the football field). Notify the SRO and fire department by calling 911. Fallen aircraft on the building: The teacher should instruct all students to immediately duck under their desks or tables, cover their heads, and await an all clear from the teacher When the falling sound stops, it is imperative to evacuate the building. Follow the building evacuation protocol (page 8), making sure students and staff do not go near the aircraft (use alternate routes of evacuation if necessary; take the Class Crisis Management Packet). All staff and students will stay at least 500 feet from the site. All missing children should be reported to the principal at once. Qualified personnel will report to aid in emergency first aid and search and recovery of possible victims after children s safety has been insured. The principal will confer with the superintendent about evacuation of the school grounds. Do not evacuate to another building unless it has received an inspection by a qualified person. Military planes:. Assistance to military airplane victims will not be given (we do not know anything about military aircraft, and, in trying to help, we could trigger the ejection seat and accidentally kill ourselves.) 20

22 Fallen aircraft near the building:. Call Parris Island or the Marine Corps Air Station. 1. The teacher should instruct all children to immediately duck under their desks, cover their heads, and await an all clear from the teacher. 2. Children in rooms adjacent to the fallen aircraft will be moved to a safe distance within the school. 3. Classes will continue, but recesses will be suspended until the principal decides it is safe. 4. Qualified personnel will report to aid in emergency first aid and search and recovery of possible victims after children s safety has been insured. 5. The principal will confer with the superintendent about evacuation of the school grounds. Do not evacuate to another building unless it has received an inspection by a qualified person. 6. Military planes: a. Assistance to military airplane victims will not be given (we do not know anything about military aircraft, and, in trying to help, we could trigger the ejection seat and accidentally kill ourselves.) b. Call Parris Island or the Marine Corps Air Station. FIRE Prevention: Whether a real fire or a drill, try to evacuate in less than two minutes. During fire drills, teachers will give proper fire drill instructions. It is most important that students understand and comply with fire regulations. Instructions and maps of escape routes are posted in each classroom. When the alarm sounds, students will leave the building orderly, quickly, and quietly, and proceed to place of safety as instructed by their teachers. Teachers must be the last persons out of classrooms, checking that no student was left in the room and close the door. Teachers should review the evacuation diagram and codes with each of their classes. Remind students to take personal items with them. Teachers should take their grade books and Classroom Crisis Management Packet with them in order that all students may be accounted for. Teachers should become familiar with fire alarm stations and fire extinguishers in the area in which they teach. When the return signal is given, students will enter the building orderly, quickly and quietly with their teachers. Fire drills are required once a month. Not only should they be held at various times, but should familiarize the occupants with all available means of exit. Intervention: In the event of a fire, the fire alarm will be activated and all students and staff members should evacuate the building immediately, teachers taking their class books and Classroom Crisis Management Packets. If the fire alarm is not working, then the command EVACUATE will be issued over the PA system. Students will be evacuated to the ball fields. Once at the assembly area, teachers will take roll of their students and display the appropriate emergency status card. 21

23 In the event of a natural gas fire, sound the alarm then TURN OFF MAIN GAS VALVES. If the fire is small, use the fire extinguisher AFTER the gas is turned off. Prevention: Intervention: CAFETERIA: In the event of an electrical fire, sound the alarm and TURN OFF ELECTRICITY (breaker boxes are in electrical closets on each hall). Do not use water or water-acid extinguishers on electrical supported fires. Only SMALL fires should be fought with an extinguisher. The principal will notify the district and utility companies of a break or suspected break in utilities. HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SPILL Hazardous materials will be stored away from accidental student access. A hazardous material list will be maintained. The cafeteria staff will attempt to contain the material if possible when leaving the area by shutting doors. CLASSROOM: The food service manager will notify the principal, the school nurse, the director of food service, and begin emergency procedures. The principal will inspect the area to determine appropriate procedures, meet with food service manager, and Beaufort County Schools Maintenance Department, and (depending upon the problem) the Department of Environmental Control (DHEC). The Crisis Response Team will be convened if appropriate. Priority will be given to ensure the safety of students and staff. The level of toxicity will be ascertained. The school nurse will check any students or staff who has been exposed for adverse medical symptoms and contact families as needed. All students and staff members in the affected area should be accounted for. If problems occur during breakfast or lunch, the principal and food service personnel will discuss options for food and eating locations. The teacher should notify the office immediately. The principal will inspect the area to determine the appropriate emergency procedure. The Crisis Response Team will be notified if appropriate. The principal will notify the Beaufort County Schools Maintenance Department, the school district office, and DHEC if necessary. The nurse will check for adverse medical symptoms for any staff or students exposed and contact families as needed. The teacher should attempt to contain the material if possible when leaving the area by shutting doors or windows. All students must be accounted for. The safety and security of students and staff are paramount. The level of toxicity should be ascertained if possible. 22

24 In the event of a Hazardous Material spill within or near the school campus and upon determination that evacuation of the school is needed, instructions will be issued and Durham will be contacted to transport students. If in-place sheltering in imposed: 1.Maintain lines of communication with the school district and emergency services. 2.Announce over the PA that in-place sheltering is in effect. INJURY/SEXUAL ASSAULT/DEATH INJURY Prevention: Enforcing the Safe Schools Act and the expected behaviors discussed in the student agendas as well as staff training minimizes possible injuries Establish and maintain a list of emergency telephone numbers. Maintain the safety and order in the building and on the campus. Establish and maintain a list of staff qualified to administer first aid. Provide families with a statement of legal responsibilities and liabilities, including school insurance restrictions and actions that will be taken when family members cannot be reached. Intervention: Depending on the seriousness of the injury or illness, the school nurse and/or 911 activated. If warranted the principal and/or SRO will be notified. If the injury or illness is a critical, 911 will be activated. A. Administer first aid to the extent possible. B. Limit activity in the vicinity of the affected student. If the injured person cannot be moved, move the other students away from the scene. C. D. E. F. Notify the family of the affected student. If student is transported to a hospital, a staff member will accompany the student. Record procedures administered (first aid, CPR), times and actions. If the injury or illness is the result of a crime being committed, keep the scene secure, do not disturb possible evidence, identify witnesses and keep them separated until the SRO takes control. DEATH OF A STUDENT/STAFF MEMBER ON CAMPUS OR AT A SCHOOL-RELATED ACTIVITY: 1. Notify 911, the principal, school nurse, and the SRO. 2. The principal may initiate LOCKDOWN, if on campus. Notify the school, if off campus, which will notify the district. 3. Provide for the safety, comfort, and possible isolation of witnesses or those immediately involved. 4. Follow the instructions of the SRO or emergency personnel. 5. If the death is the result of a crime being committed, keep the scene secure, do not disturb any possible evidence, identify witnesses and keep them separated. 6. Arrange for supervision and supply any necessary information to the principal or emergency responders assuming control. 7. The principal and SRO will notify the appropriate family members or emergency contact. 8. Account for all students. 9. Refrain from speculation or discussion about the incident. Prepare to respond to needs of the students and staff. Guidance Counselors will identify a location where students may find additional support. Expect that some students may need the care of their family members. 23

25 Limit school activity up to and including a lockdown if necessary. Initiate Family Reunification Protocol, if necessary (Appendix I). Only the principal or SRO will speak to the media. Remove personal items or allow a friend to remove items of the deceased from desks and lockers to return to the family. Coordinate with mental health personnel to determine the appropriate timing for this 14.Plan for the day and any alternative arrangements that are appropriate with the Crisis Response Team and other authorities. 15.Decide on a time/place for a meeting with all staff and/or the preparation of a fact sheet. 16.Prepare any comments for the student body carefully and rehearse what will be said. 17.Provide for counseling for staff and faculty as necessary. 18.Notify other schools affected (schools of siblings, friends). 19.Plan for substitutes for school personnel. 20.Send a fact sheet home to parents if appropriate. 21.In the event of a death, intercept all mailings to avoid additional trauma and empty locker to return possessions to the family. SUICIDE WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDE MAY INCLUDE Preoccupation with themes of death expressed in conversation or writing Expressing suicidal thoughts or threats of the person harming himself Actual suicide attempts or gestures Prolonged depression with attitudes of hopelessness Physical symptoms of depression, such as changes in sleeping patterns, too much or too little sleep, or sudden and extreme changes in weight and eating habits Withdrawal and isolation from family and friends Deteriorating school performance reflected in lower grades, cutting classes and dropping out of school activities Persistent abuse of drugs and alcohol Major personality changes indicated by excessive anxiety or nervousness, angry outbursts or apathy; older students or adults may appear to loose interest in personal appearance and interpersonal relationships Recent loss of close relationships through death, suicide, move, or loss of girlfriend/boyfriend Making final arrangements, drawing up a will or giving away prized possessions Sudden, unexplained euphoria or heightened activity after a long period of gloom and doom Preoccupation with need to be thin (eating disorders) Flagrant risk-taking Failing grades or getting into trouble RESPONSE TO SUICIDE THREAT OR ATTEMPT: WHAT TO DO If this student has a weapon or is in an unsafe area, the SRO and principal need to be notified immediately Do not leave the individual alone. 24

26 Escort the individual to a guidance counselor or school nurse who will initiate assessment of the threat and follow up with getting assistance or call one of them to come to the student. Prevention: SEXUAL ASSAULT Identify high-risk areas such as restrooms and supervise those areas on a continuing basis. Lock all unoccupied rooms or areas. School personnel are mandated reporters of sexual battery, harassment, or assault and must transmit any student complaint made to them. Intervention: Notify the SRO, school nurse, guidance counselors or principal immediately, who will notify others as needed. Move the victim to the nurse s or guidance counselor s office. The SRO and principal will notify the family of the victim. Dissuade the victim from washing, cleaning up, or use of restroom, if possible. Follow up will be implemented by guidance counselors, school nurse, school psychologist, family, and outside agencies. The SRO should contact the Rape Crisis Center and a counselor from that agency should accompany the victim to the hospital for collection of evidence and medical treatment. The perpetrator should be turned over to the principal and the SRO. Field Trip Emergency Prevention: TRANSPORTATION ACCIDENT Prepare and maintain a list of all students, staff, and chaperones on each bus or in each car during the trip. This should include all permission slips showing emergency contact information regarding the occupants. Check all buses for their required first aid kits. Carry pertinent health information (shown on SASIXP under emergency information) and prescription medicines needed during the trip. Maintain a list of all emergency numbers to be contacted at the point of origin, intermediate points and final destination point, especially during scheduled field trips. Intervention: Identify the injured and provide first aid. If threats of fire or other dangers exist, move children to a safe place. Notify 911 and the school. Designate one responsible adult to remain at the scene. Designate one responsible adult to accompany the injured to the hospital. Designate one responsible adult to begin communicating information back to the school regarding the emergency. Refer all media questions to the district. Upon notification that a transportation accident has occurred, the principal should immediately contact 911 to ensure that emergency personnel have been notified. Even if the accident has occurred out of the local area, our 911 can contact the 911 center located in the area of the accident. Parents of the students should be notified. In case of serious injury, activity in the vicinity of the affected students should be limited. 25

27 Compile a list of those who have been injured and those who have not. Ensure that all persons present on the bus/vehicle at the time of the accident have been accounted for in some way. The principal should implement the Injury/Death Plan as needed. UTILITY FAILURE A utility failure is any gas leak, electrical power failure, telephone service interruption, or broken water or sewer pipe that may present a hazard to the occupants of the school. Intervention: The basic procedure to be followed in the event there is an extended power outage is to STAY IN PLACE throughout the outage unless there is a threat to health and safety. If, students must be moved, follow the directions of the principal to a designated safe room. If the situation constitutes an emergency, seek shelter in the nearest safe room/area using your best judgment. If possible, notify BMS SECURITY or the front office at / of your new location. Should a utility failure occur, notify Mr. Henderson or the front office who will call school maintenance and the local utility company. Ignore watches. Clocks will not function. If needed notify the SRO and 911. If needed, initiate Evacuation Protocol. If possible, shut off other utilities and open windows if necessary. If flooding may occur, relocate articles that may be damaged by water. Call roll upon reaching the evacuation site. Display emergency status cards. Do not re-enter the building until ALL CLEAR is issued. Students should not be given passes to move throughout the building during a power outage. Everyone is to remain in the classroom unless directed to do otherwise by the principal. No student is to be released to a parent/guardian or any other non-school personnel without explicit instruction to do so from an administrator. If a power outage occurs during lunch, the principal and cafeteria staff will make changes in times and the menu. The principal will notify teachers if an early or controlled dismissal will be used. All students on your roster must be accounted for at all times. Prevention: EARTHQUAKE Students and staff should practice seeking shelter under desks and away from windows or other glass to minimize hazards from falling or broken objects. Intervention: Movement during the actual tremors is not recommended. Stay in place, cover your head and neck as well as you can. o If inside a building, seek cover under sturdy furniture such as desks. o If outdoors, move away from buildings and avoid utility lines. 26

28 o If on a bus, stop the bus quickly and safely in an open area away from overpasses and bridges. Keep students on the bus. If possible call 911 after the tremors have stopped. The principal, nurse, and SRO will conduct an assessment to determine damages, injuries, and to determine whether an evacuation is needed. If you are outside, do not re-enter the building. No one will use open flames (e.g., matches, candles, gas stoves) due to possible gas leaks. Provide first aid to the injured. Depending on conditions, an early dismissal may be implemented. Prevention: FLOODING The school building is one of the higher points of the neighborhood and is not prone to flooding, but some of the students homes are near sea level. Bus routes must travel through lower areas to pick up and deliver students. Driving through standing water is not recommended. Weather conditions will be monitored by weather radio or television. Intervention: If an evacuation or early dismissal is required, Durham bus services will be contacted immediately. If possible, parents will be notified of the situation by the school district s announcement via radio. If the situation does not permit an evacuation, keep the students at the school or at an alternate safe location. Shut off the water at the main connection so that contaminated water will not back up into the school water supply. Prevention: HURRICANE Learn about the history and effects of hurricanes in our area. This should include elevation of the school above sea level, storm surge zone and streams or rivers that may flood. Identify and designate the most protective areas within school buildings. Hurricane Watch: Indicates that a hurricane may threaten an area within 36 to 48 hours. It is a first alert for emergency agencies and the general public in a threatened area. Hurricane Warning: Indicates that a hurricane is expected to strike an area within 24 hours. The warning contains an assessment of flood danger, wind velocities, storm direction and estimated effects. Heed evacuation order. Intervention: Classes will be cancelled by the district to allow students, staff, and their families to evacuate in accordance with Beaufort County Evacuation Policy. Store all portable equipment and other loose items and tie down other items securely. Check all emergency facilities and equipment, such as flashlights and generators for proper operating condition. Store drinking water in clean, clear, closed containers whether glass or plastic. 27

29 Return to Beaufort County only after checking the toll free line: 1(877) Avoid the use of gas lanterns, matches, and other flammable items. Avoid wet/damaged electrical wires. Check emergency food and water supplies for possible contamination. Boil tap water if required by DHEC. Classes will resume after all buildings and equipment are inspected for damage and pronounced safe by the district. Prevention: THUNDERSTORM Inclement weather procedures will be in effect in cases where there is heavy rainfall or when severe weather conditions exist. They may also be used if a situation requires that the student body be dismissed in a controlled or incremental manner, as determined by the school administration. The principal will notify the staff via the PA system or by staff members if power is out, that they are to follow inclement weather procedures at dismissal. Students are to remain in the classrooms at 2:35. They will not be dismissed by the clock. Intervention for buses: Teachers will follow their classes toward the designated exit doors to assure that students move in a safe and orderly manner. Teachers having planning are expected to assist with the orderly departure of students by supervising the designated exit doors/areas. Students should be discouraged from going to their lockers. However, if they insist, they will be permitted to do so. The principal will assure that the busses will not leave until all students have boarded their assigned busses. Staff not assisting with the boarding of busses will assure that all classroom/student areas are clear of students. Intervention for walkers and bike riders: Teachers will keep students in the classrooms until the storm subsides enough for safe transit. If possible danger from downed power lines or other hazards exists, students should be allowed to contact families and arrange other transportation. Family Reunification Protocols will be used (Appendix L). Severe Thunderstorm Watch: This indicates that a severe thunderstorm may develop in your area, taking appropriate precautions would be prudent. Severe Thunderstorm Warning: This indicates that a severe thunderstorm has developed in your area and taking appropriate action is necessary for the safety of all who will be affected. On School Grounds Get out of open areas and into an enclosed building as quickly as possible Do not seek shelter under isolated trees or close to metal fences, on athletic fields, or shelters in exposed locations. Keep twice as far from isolated trees or objects, as they are tall. 28

30 Do not handle metal objects such as golf clubs, aluminum bats, fishing rods, etc. Avoid electrically conductive overhead objects such as wires. If you are in an enclosed vehicle, stay inside and avoid touching exposed metal parts. Inside School Buildings Stay indoors. Do not handle flammable liquids in open containers. Stay away from open doors and windows, metal objects, electrical appliances and plumbing until the storm passes. Avoid using the telephone if at all possible. Lighting can and does travel through telephone lines. If possible, TV sets, computer equipment and all other electrical equipment should be unplugged. Keep students away from glassed areas, especially if there are high winds. Prevention: TORNADO The front office will monitor weather reports on the radio and relay all watches and warnings to the principal. Plan to shelter in interior areas. Do not use gyms and other areas with wide roof spans, which may be blown away. Use the weather alarm system for tornado warnings. Keep first aid supplies convenient (in the health room and all command posts). At least twice a year, inform staff and students about severe weather and what to look for. Include transportation personnel in tornado procedure instructions. Instruct the staff in building security procedures. Designate the best areas to serve as shelters, such as interior rooms and hallways. Conduct drills so that everyone can become familiar with tornado procedures. Tornado Watch: Indicates that the weather conditions are such that a tornado may develop and instructs to listen for further updates. Teachers will be informed. If a tornado is sighted notify the School Resource Officer or 911 communications. 911 will notify the National Weather Service (NWS). Intervention: Tornado Warning: Indicates that a tornado has been sighted and protective measures must be taken immediately. If an alert warning is announced, that means that a tornado has been sighted in the general area. Students must follow the teacher s direction for maximum degree of safety. DO NOT RUN OR PANIC. A. Open window in exterior walls. This equalizes the inside pressure to what it is outside. B. On orders from their teachers, students will move to areas designated safest and should remain seated on the floor with their back toward the hallway and their heads bent and covered with their arms towards the walls. C. Glass filled areas should be avoided. 29

31 D. Any wraps available may be used to cover head, arms and legs. If a watch becomes a warning: Take personal belongings only to provide extra protection from flying or falling debris (such as large books, notebooks, book bags, or coats to hold overhead and shoulders. Teachers carry grade books and Classroom Crisis Management Packets. Secure the building by closing windows and doors. Direct everyone to seek cover where floors and walls meet and to take a protective seated position with hands/arms covering the head, neck, and face. If possible, secure or store articles that may become missiles indoors. Take roll after moving students to shelter areas to determine if anyone is missing and display the appropriate emergency status cards. On the Bus: If a tornado is sighted while students are on the bus, the following steps should be taken: If possible, drive away from the tornado s path; evacuate the bus. Take shelter in a designated building or other strong structure along the route. If no safe buildings are available, evacuate the bus and escort students to a ditch or hollow; have them lie face down with hands over their heads. Avoid utility poles and overhead wires. Keep students far enough from the bus so it cannot be turned over on them. Appendix A: Bomb Threat Report Form CALLER S VOICE: BOMB THREAT INFORMATION QUESTIONS TO ASK: 1. When is the bomb going to explode? Calm Angry Excited Slow Rapid Soft Loud Laughter Crying Normal Distinct Slurred Nasal Stutter Lispy Raspy Deep Ragged Clearing Throat Deep Breathing Cracking voice Disguised Accent Familiar 2. Where is it right now? 3. What does it look like? 4. What kind of bomb is it? 5. What will cause it to explode? 6. Did you place the bomb? 7. Why? If voice is familiar, who did it sound like? BACKGROUND SOUNDS: PA system Factory machinery Music Clear 8. What is your address? 9. What is your name? EXACT WORDING OF THE THREAT: 30

32 Voices Motor Crockery Street noises Office machinery House noises Static Local Long distance Booth Animal noises Other THREAT LANGUAGE: Well spoken (educated) Foul Irrational Incoherent Taped Message read by threat maker REMARKS: REPORT CALL IMMEDIATELY TO: PHONE NUMBER: Date / / Name Sex of caller: Race: Age: Length of call: Number at which call is received: Time: Date: / / Position Phone Appendix B: Bomb Threat Levels: THREAT LEVEL ASSESSMENT FOR BOMB THREAT/RESPONSE I. THREAT LEVEL ASSESSMENT There are four threat levels based on the realistic appraisal of the severity of the threat against the target. Generally, The higher the threat level, the greater the emphasis on evacuation; and The lower the threat level, the greater emphasis on searching. II. CATEGORIZING A THREAT Upon notification of the threat, the principal should make a threat analysis. Note: Threat levels often change as time passes or circumstances dictate. III. RECEIVING THREAT CALLS Bomb Threat Preparations: A bomb threat card is available at the front office switchboard. Most threat calls are very brief, however, ask the caller as many of the nine questions listed on the card as possible. Keep the caller on the line as long as possible (the more information the caller gives the more evidence you have). DON T HANG UP THE PHONE. Following the call, write down the exact wording of the call and answer the questions on the back of the card pertaining to background noises, sex, age, speech, etc. of the caller. Immediately alert the principal to assess the threat level and initiating an appropriate response level. IV. BOMB THREAT RESPONSE Once the principal has determined the threat level: 31

33 Threat Alert: Notification of the appropriate response level should be made. This could be done by fire alarm as long as the threatened target is not located near the evacuation area (e.g., a vehicle). This can also be accomplished through non cellular telephone, announcing CODE 3 EVACUATE or through messengers. Evacuation: After notification, evacuees should be evacuated to a predetermined holding point unless otherwise designated by the principal and the SRO. They should be encouraged to take easily recovered personal items with them (e.g., backpacks, pocketbooks) as these items may need to be searched if unidentified and left in the building. Searches: Depending on the threat level some form of search by school employees will eventually be required following all threats. ONLY those familiar with the building (e.g., teachers, custodians, etc.) should search. Unless the bomb is obvious (i.e., open bomb), only someone familiar with the building would know what belongs and what does not. Police, fire, EMS, etc. should normally not be involved in a search. Their services are essential if an explosion occurs. Moreover, they would be of little assistance in a search if they were not intimately familiar with the building. Search Patterns: Searches should start with outside areas (statistically, the most likely place for a bomb). The following order is generally recommended: Shrubbery, trash cans, grass area next to the building, loading docks, mail boxes, etc. Specific target areas mentioned in the threat: Hazardous areas (e.g., labs, propane tanks, and electrical rooms); Public access areas (e.g., restrooms, canteens, other easy access rooms); Common access areas, hallways, gymnasiums, fire extinguisher boxes, etc.; Classrooms, lockers, and finally, Secured office areas and locked closets and rooms. Room Search Techniques: For psychological and efficiency reasons, a two person team should search a room. Ideally, the search team should be equipped with flashlights and have a predetermined way to communicate to the responsible authority should a suspicious item be discovered. In a detailed room search (i.e. general search) the room should be divided in half and searched in the following manner: Stop, look and listen for unusual items or sounds before entering; Search from floor (i.e., under throw rugs) to waist high (i.e. desks, chairs, drawers, trash cans); Search from waist high to head high (e.g., lamps, fire extinguishers, cabinets); Search from head high to ceiling (e.g., pictures, ceiling lights and fixtures); Search from ceiling and above (e.g. look for damaged or remove tiles from false ceilings or up in air vents). Ongoing Reassessment: The principal and SRO should continually reassess the threat level. The threat level usually increases or decreases depending on the passing of time, results of the search, or other information obtained by Police. Drills: Tabletop drills are recommended in order to prepare for any difficulties that may arise out of a threat incident. Practice communications without using radios and setting up alternate evacuation routes and holding points. After the drills or actual threats, critique the response effort to determine what you did right as well as what deficiencies exist. Continually improve on your responses. Suspicious Items: It is not uncommon for searchers to find items that are somewhat suspicious. Try to determine if these items belong by asking around, look at the markings on the package (e.g., if return address is visible, call the sender, etc.), and make every effort to determine whether it is 32

34 legitimate or not. Use your common sense and the appearance and location of the item to decide whether this item is a suspected bomb. EMERGENCY EVACUATION EXAMPLES Your school received a telephonic bomb threat during a basketball game in which the caller stated there was a pipe bomb under the gym stands. One of the teachers observed a box under the stands with electrical tape and some wire protruding (Call 911 or emergency number to get Bomb Squad/Law Enforcement/Fire/EMS). A bomb threat was received and an assistant principal found a suspicious pipe with two end caps during a Level 4 Cursory Search (Call 911). A threat was received and a teacher found a plastic cola bottle with liquid in it that was smoking and appeared to be swollen (Call 911; possible chemical reaction bomb). The caller stated her husband, John Doe, used to be a custodian at the school who was fired for drinking at work. She stated that he planted a dynamite bomb in his old work shed behind the school. You remember firing Doe and his last words were You ll be sorry! (Call 911; do not approach the shed area). CONTROLLED EVACUATION EXAMPLES: A specific teacher s car was threatened with a bomb (DO NOT TOUCH VEHICLE!). Evacuate behind cover at least 300 feet away from vehicle and call 911. Request a bomb squad to search vehicle). You just expelled three students and have had numerous vandalism incidents. A bomb threat stated that a fire-bomb will go off this afternoon. It is 12:45 P.M. and a bomb threat caller indicated that A bomb was placed in the school because of the recent bus driver s strike and that it will go off at 2:00 P.M. when the buses start arriving (Also have bus drivers check their vehicles for suspicious items). Evacuate students away from bus arrival area and move buses to an isolated area away from the school buildings if that is possible. GENERAL SEARCH EXAMPLES: A BOMB THREAT CALLER STATED THAT THERE IS A BOMB IN THE SCHOOL AND IT WILL GO OFF AT 11:00 a.m. AND THEN HANGS UP. There are no additional problems or circumstances that warrant an increase in the threat level. You have a bomb threat that you determine to be a Level IV threat, but you want to be conservative due to the recent bombings that occurred at a courthouse in a nearby county. CURSORY SEARCH EXAMPLES: You receive a call that appears to be from giggling juveniles in which a bomb is threatened and no other concerns are warranted. You receive a letter on Thursday that indicates that a bomb will go off next Monday and the letter is written in crayon and Monday is a school holiday. You receive a telephonic threat in which the caller states a bomb is in the school and will go off at 1:00 P.M. No other concerns exist and this is your fifth false threat in two weeks. You receive a bomb threat for 12:30 P.M. but you traced the call and the local Law Enforcement arrested the young suspect who stated that the call was a hoax. Appendix C: GANG RELATED ACTIVITIES PREVENTION: Coordinate information on known youth gang members and communicate with faculty, staff, students, and support agencies as necessary. Monitor, with the assistance of the SRO, any graffiti that appears, take photographs, and record instances when the graffiti appears to be gang-related. 33

35 Identify youth groups and establish a common ground to enhance open lines of communication within the school and community. Control access to the school campus. Have custodians remove graffiti that appears within 24 hours, after documentation has been established. Train staff to recognize, report, collect and document intelligence information related to gang activity and membership. INTERVENTION: Initiate the crisis plan for civil disturbance if a violent group action occurs on campus. Contain the crisis and prevent the situation from escalating without creating unsafe conditions for staff or students by preventing other participants from arriving on the scene. POSTVENTION: Assist law enforcement agents with their investigation. Hold a faculty meeting or issue a fact sheet to keep staff informed. The principal may send a letter home for families. Appendix D: SPECIAL EVENTS INCIDENTS POTENTIAL PROBLEMS: 1. Theft of tickets or money 2. Crowd control 3. Traffic 4. Incidents in unlighted or restroom areas 5. Lost children 6. Violent confrontations among students TO PREVENT THEFT: Collect money regularly and arrange for a law enforcement official to be in the collection area. Have a law enforcement officer accompany any transport of money. Secure money inside the building. Report any unusual gathering or behavior of spectators/students in the money-collection area and insist that no loitering take place, particularly behind the money-collection site. Keep food distribution areas together to prevent the scattering of money-taking sites. CROWD CONTROL: Utilize the appropriate number of monitors, the SRO, and additional deputies to patrol and attend the event. Use radios. 34

36 Provide space for crowd movement and anticipate the flow of movement of large groups into and out of the building and parking lots. Monitor restrooms and poorly lit areas constantly. Provide adequate public address facilities. Hire law enforcement authorities to assist with traffic and parking and to maintain corridors for emergency vehicles. The principal and custodians should inspect the activity area to identify problem areas that need to be addressed. Be sensitive to the climate and movement of groups of participants that seem unusual or provocative. APPENDIX E: ANNUAL START UP PROCEDURES o Confirm membership of the Crisis Response Team, send list to nurse coordinator for the school cluster o Conduct staff skills survey o Decide on a coordinator and substitute for synchronizing suicide intervention, critical incident, and postvention procedures o Plan at least two crisis team meetings. It is mandatory that crisis teams meet prior to the beginning of the school year and one other time during the year to review procedures, especially critical incidents, and check equipment such as school emergency kits. o Review critical incident communication codes with faculty and staff. o Update staff phone tree. o Meet with new staff members annually to inform them of school safety, crisis response procedures, emphasizing the referral process for crisis intervention. o Team needs to review procedures annually, also go through at least two scenarios using postvention steps; the key to handling an incident is the preparation before the event. o Send annual parent letter informing them of crisis plan as school starts (copy below): Dear Parents, In the unlikely event of a crisis situation occurring while school is in session, whether it is a natural disaster or some other crisis, the staff of Beaufort Middle School has considered how we can protect our students. We realize that a parents first reaction in an emergency is concern for the safety of their children. It is because of ongoing disaster preparedness that no student has been seriously injured in school fires for many years. In most crises or natural disasters, schools are among the safest places for students. If a crisis affecting the Beaufort Middle School community develops, your child may be required to remain in the care of the school until it is deemed safe by law enforcement and other officials to leave the campus. The most likely reaction will be to keep all students in the school until 35

37 the crisis is determined to be over. Plans to evacuate the school, if necessary, have been made, but students will still be assigned to classroom teachers and staff members if they are relocated. Please do not call the school during any emergency to inquire about the status of the school day; our phone lines must be available for emergency use. The Beaufort County School District will issue information on radio and television stations as any situation changes the school schedules. Parents who feel that their students will be safer or more comfortable with their family may sign the students out using our normal procedure to release students during the school day, with some minor changes if needed (such as your identification may be required). It is very important for parents to keep an up-to-date set of emergency phone numbers where they may be reached during school hours. At the beginning of each school year students bring home a form for health information. This form is the initial basis for school records of your phone numbers and emergency contact names; these pieces of information are shared with the main office. At the end of an emergency, students may be released only to guardians and/or their designees. In the event you want a neighbor, other family members, or another student s parent to be able to take your child home, the information needs to be listed on the health form and can be updated at any time during the school year through the nurse s office or the main office either in person or by a written notice. Be sure to notify persons listed that you have authorized their supervision of your child and your child should hear who might be asked to keep them. If there is any doubt about permission for a student to leave the school, the student will be kept at school until dismissal. Beaufort Middle School has developed our crisis plan in cooperation with the Beaufort County School District. It is devoted to the welfare and safety of your child during school hours. The plan is available for inspection in the school office. We appreciate your cooperation in this important matter. Johnathon Wideman Assistant Principal APPENDIX F: TRAINING AND DRILLS o For all new staff members o Review for all team members o Hold a staff inservice on procedures any time members change APPENDIX G: CRISIS RESPONSE EVALUATION The Crisis Response Team seeks your input to help us assess the effectiveness of the intervention during the recent crisis at school. We would like you to take time to complete this form as soon as possible and return it to Mr. Henderson. A. Please indicate with an X the response that most closely reflects your evaluation of the following: 1. Speed of the CRT s response to the crisis: 36

38 very delayed adequate very timely 2. Comprehensiveness of CRT s response: very limited adequate exceptional 3. Effectiveness of team s responses in meeting students needs not helpful adequate very helpful 4. Assistance to teachers in the classroom: not supportiveadequatevery supportive 5. Quality of communication with the school faculty and staff: not informativeadequatevery explanatory 6. Support and guidance to individual teachers and staff: ineffectualadequateempathetic 7. Assistance to the administrative staff: limitedadequatecomprehensive 8. Amount of time allocated for intervention: insufficientadequatevery sufficient 9. Support to families in need: lackingadequateoutstanding 10. Communication of information to parents: minimaladequatethorough B. Please circle the adjectives which best describe the students reactions to the CRT s intervention: satisfied positive angry negative ambivalent receptive grateful hostile relieved apathetic C. Please describe any significant reactions the students had to the CRT intervention that should be considered in future interventions. D. Please comment on any on any aspects of the intervention you found particularly helpful or areas that you think should be modified. School Signature (optional): Date: APPENDIX H: CRISIS RESPONSE TEAM REPORT (DUE TO THE SUPERINTENDENT WITHIN 5 DAYS OF CONCLUSION OF INCIDENT) SCHOOL: REPORT DATE: Description of incident (date, time, & place): 37

39 Immediate Actions by Crisis response Team: Describe assistance provided by Emergency Services: Describe assistance provided by other community agencies/organizations: Follow-up that has occurred/is occurring: With students: With faculty/staff: With parents/guardians of involved students: With community: Recommendations to improve responses to such crises in the future: Principal s Signature Date Attach a list of students directly involved in the incident including their grade levels and parents names, addresses, and phone numbers, as well as details not on this sheet. APPENDIX I: Family Reunification In the event of a school crisis situation it is possible a family reunification site may need to be established in order to evacuate students and staff members from the affected area to a safe/secure location in order to release them to their families. The following guidelines have been established to assist to completing this task. Family Reunification Site: Cornerstone Church First Blvd, Beaufort 38

40 . Utilize law enforcement to control traffic and crowds and to assist school officials in any way possible. Notify the media to relay as to where the reunification site is located, so they can relay that information to responding parents.. The following tasks should be carried out prior to the arrival of evacuees. Establish a Command Post Establish an area for medical personnel to provide any needed first-aid. Establish an area for any responding clergy or mental health personnel. Establish a media area. Establish a secure area for arriving/departing buses. Establish a waiting area for parents. Procedures for Unloading Evacuees: Buses will be directed to the bus unloading area of the reunification site. Buses will not unload until given authorization to do so. While the evacuees are unloading teachers will take their names and forward that information to the school district site coordinator. Upon entering the site, students may meet with law enforcement investigators to see if they have first hand knowledge of the incident. If they do, the investigator will pull that child or staff member aside for identification and interview. Procedures for Reunification with Parents: Parents will be located in a designated area and will sign a roster. Once the names of the arriving evacuees have been obtained, they will be posted in the parent waiting area. Once a parent identifies their child on the list, they will report to the sign-in/out area. Once positive identification has been made on the parent or guardian, the child's name will be called out and the child will report to the sign-in/out area. The child will then be signed out and is free to leave with the parent and should be encouraged to do so. If a Traumatic Stress Reaction sheet as been provided by mental health officials, make sure parents have obtained a copy before leaving. If parents of children who have been taking to the hospital arrive advised them on where their children have been taken. If the family of any deceased victims arrive, escort them to a separate location with guidance/school psychologists available to them. This will be carried out until all students have been reunified with parents and all medical or death notifications have been made. 39

41 APPENDIX J: BMS MAP Top of map orients north; Mossy Oaks Road is at the bottom of the map. 40

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