“We
know that the best safety practices are always changing and evolving,
and our preparations need to evolve as well,” said Jeremy Boettler, FHSD
Director of Facilities and Operations. “The unannounced intruder drills
were recommended by law enforcement and our safety committee, and we’re
confident that this will help our schools be better prepared in case of
an emergency.”
The
element of surprise is intended to make the drill as realistic as
possible, and even school administrators won’t know in advance when the
drill will occur. Law enforcement personnel including School Resource
Officers (SRO) will arrive on the scene, and the following announcement
will be made over the building intercom: “Attention! This is an active
shooter drill, take immediate action! Lock down, lock down, lock down!”
No “all clear” is announced over the intercom during the drill. The
building is cleared room by room by law enforcement officers.
The new unannounced intruder drills are one of the proactive measures
FHSD takes to ensure the safety of everyone in our schools. By
practicing these procedures, students and staff will know how to react
and respond in each unique emergency situation.