School Response to Homeland Security Advisories

The summer is an ideal time for schools to review and update emergency plans. An area to consider is developing a school (or district) response to Homeland Security Advisories. These responses can also be used for more local events, that will not warrant a change in the US Homeland Security posture (I.e. a police chase manhunt is taking place near the school). Here is a general outline:

Low Risk (Green)

Update emergency plans.
Coordinate emergency plans with city and county plans.
Conduct crisis management and communications training for employees at all levels.
Implement visitor control procedures.
Maintain current emergency communication lists.
Inventory emergency supplies and equipment.
Disseminate emergency communications methods and resources

General Risk (Blue)

Same measures as Code Green:
Update employee emergency call lists and review callback process with employees.
Test alternative communication capabilities.

Significant Risk (Yellow)

In addition to the measures listed above, the following measures will be instituted:
Assess increased risk with public safety officials.
Review emergency plans with principals, and building and office staffs.
Reassess facility & transportation security measures.
Review field trip decisions.
Increase communication with parents and community via web site and e-mail distribution.

High Risk (Orange)

In addition to the measures listed above, the following measures will be instituted:
Implement stricter physical security measures.
Consider placing staff on buses.
Inventory emergency supplies and equipment.
Establish an Incident Command System.
Restrict outdoor activities as appropriate.

Severe Risk(Red)

In addition to the measures listed above, the following measures will be instituted:
Establish communication with public safety, if appropriate.
Provide staff members to County Emergency Operations Center, if appropriate.
Activate Operations Center or Command Post, if appropriate.
Assess threat level to determine status of school openings and closings.

Remember, always collaborate with your local response agencies on emergency planning issues.

Stay safe!
Brad

This post is provided by SafePlans (www.safeplans.com), an all-hazards preparedness solution including emergency plans, staff training, and detailed site mapping.