SECURITY CONTROL CENTER
407-317-3333
EMERGENCY INFORMATION LINE
407-318-3000
Orange County Public
Schools
Emergency Procedures
Manual
Superintendent’s Introduction
The presence of effective violence prevention programs is the preferred course of action for maintaining safe and positive learning environments throughout our district. Even with these programs in place and operating, the need to have viable emergency management procedures in place is not eliminated.
This Emergency Procedures Manual is a ready reference
guide to assist work location administrators in the effective management of emergency situations. Years of planning and experience on the part of district personnel and community emergency management officials have gone into the development of this document. The most significant point of this manual is that it contains district- wide standards for handling emergency situations. Also, it contains the steps of action necessary for effective intervention and follow-up for selected common emergencies that might affect work locations.
Each work location supervisor must be able to devote his or her full attention to managing the emergency. Based on that reality, I have directed the Security Services Department to institute a “one phone call” process within the Security Control Center. What that means to each work location supervisor is that once he or she calls the Security Control Center (407-317-3333), the on-duty staff will handle subsequent notifications to district-level and learning community-level staff.
The term “Notify Law Enforcement” frequently appears throughout this manual. It is important for each work location supervisor to know that the Emergency Communication System throughout Orange County operates on an information sharing concept. If you call 911
on any emergency, the 911 dispatcher will route the call to the appropriate agency.
The expectation is for each work location supervisor to manage the emergency until police/fire responders arrive and implement the Incident Command System. This is the standardized on-scene emergency management concept specifically designed for situations occurring in and around our work locations. This response approach is designed in line with the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
Since listing every emergency situation that might occur in the future is not possible, this manual and the school’s specific emergency procedures, along with the exercise of good judgment, should help to ensure that emergencies are effectively managed. Work location supervisors should also be familiar with the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan because it goes into further detail about
what should be done in managing broader emergencies. All work location faculty, staff and appropriate governmental and community agencies should have access to this guide. The entire work location staff should be trained, at least annually, on the content and use of this
Emergency Procedures Manual and should be familiar with
the OCPS Proactive Guide for the Threat of Terrorism Against Schools, found on the district’s Intranet.
The school board members and I appreciate everything work location supervisors and other district employees do in assisting with the overall effort to maintain safe and
Non-Emergency Contact Numbers
Police and Fire Departments
Apopka Police Department ...407-703-1771 Apopka Fire Department ...407-703-1756 Eatonville Police Department ...407-623-1300 Eatonville Fire Department ...407-623-1200 Maitland Police Department ...407-539-6262 Maitland Fire Department ...407-539-6226 Ocoee Police Department ...407 656-1518 Ocoee Fire Department ...407-905-3140 Orange County Sheriff’s Office ...407-737-2400 Orange County Fire Rescue ...407-836-9000 Orlando Police Department ...321-235-5300 Orlando Fire Department ...321-235-5200 Windermere Police Department ...407-876-3757Winter Garden Police Department ...407-656-3636 Winter Garden Fire Department ...407-656-4689 Winter Park Police Department ...407-644-1313 Winter Park Fire Department ...407-644-1212
TOPIC LISTING
Introduction
Superintendent’s Introduction ... 3
Non Emergency Contact Numbers ... 5
Topic Listing Emergency Management Procedures Administrator Responsibilities ... 24
Emergency Code System – District-Wide ... 23
Emergency Management – Four Phases ... 17
Evacuation Planning – Off Campus ... 21
Incident Command System ... 11
Notification of Law Enforcement ... 9
SERT Team Responsibilities ... 24
Shelter in Place ... 22
Standard District-Wide Response Levels ... 15
Teacher Responsibilities ... 25
Terrorism – Elevated Homeland Security Alert ... 27
On-Campus Incidents Accident/Serious Injury/Illness Procedure ... 55
Chemical Spill/Gas Leak Near District Property ... 71
Death or Serious Injury on Campus ... 57
Discharge of a Firearm on School Property ... 67
Drive-By Shooting ... 69
Explosive Device/Unusual or Dangerous Object ... 37
Fire Procedures ... 41
Hazardous Materials Incident Occurring on School Property ... 73
Hostage Situation Procedures ... 61
Large Group Disturbance ... 47
Lock Down – (No Notice) ... 53
Mail Handling Procedures ... 75
Parent Refuses to Leave Building ... 49
Runaway or Abduction – Student Missing ... 77
Sexual Battery on Campus ... 79
Student Possession of Weapon on Campus ... 65
Suicide Attempt on Campus ... 59
Utility Emergency Procedures ... 45
Weapon Found on Campus ... 63
Child Abuse Reporting Child Abuse ... 81
Weather/Natural Disaster
Earthquake Procedures ... 99
Hurricane Watch Procedures ... 93
Hurricane Warning Procedures ... 95
Lightning ... 83
Tornado Watch Procedures ... 87
Tornado Warning Procedures ... 89
Transportation Hostage Situation on the Bus ... 109
Illegal Substance or Illegal Object on the Bus ... 111
Physical Altercation on the Bus ... 105
School Bus Accident with Injuries ... 101
Verbal Threat on the Bus ... 112
Weapon on Bus -Possession ... 103
Weapon or Hazardous Materials Found on Bus ... 107
Appendix
Emergency Response Quick Reference Guide ... 119Emergency Procedures Quick Reference Guide ... 120
NOTIFICATION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT
The term “Notify Law Enforcement” appears as an expectation within the “Steps of Action” of selected emergency situations. The expectation is that when a supervisor witnesses or learns of the threat of one of the following acts, he or she must immediately contact law enforcement and report the matter.
1. Homicide 2. Sexual battery 3. Armed robbery 4. Aggravated battery
5. Battery or aggravated battery on a teacher or other school personnel
6. Kidnapping or abduction 7. Arson
8. Possession, use or sale of any firearm
9. Possession, use or sale of any explosive device other than minor fireworks
10. Possession, use, or control of any other dangerous weapon
11. Breaking and entering
12. Disturbances which substantially disrupt school or a school function
13. False fire alarms or calls and bomb threats
14. Possession, use or distribution of drugs or alcohol 15. Property damage of a substantial nature
16. Robbery
17. Sexual offenses endangering the health, safety or welfare of others
18. Theft of property of a substantial nature 19. Trespassing after a warning
Contact is made with law enforcement in the following manner:
• If the school has a school resource officer (SRO) assigned and immediately available on campus, the supervisor is to work with and through that officer(s).
• If the school does not have an assigned SRO, or if the SRO is not available and there is no immediate threat to students, employees, district resources or others within the learning environment, the supervisor may call the non-emergency phone number of the law enforcement agency that supports the school to report the matter.
• In situations where there is no school resource officer assigned or the school resource officer is not immediately available and there is an immediate danger, threat of violence or a violent act is in progress, the supervisor must call 911.
• The supervisor should then call the Security Control Center at (407)-317-3333.
Basic Incident Command System
and the National Incident
Management System
In the event of an emergency, Orange County Public Schools will use the Incident Command System (ICS) developed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This system is part of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) designed to assist organizational leaders in working through emergency situations. The district uses this model to coordinate with law enforcement and fire rescue response agencies.
When an emergency occurs on a district work location the site supervisor or their designee will evaluate the situation and determine the level of emergency response. The extent of the response is determined by the size and scope of the event.
Individual Emergencies at a District Work Location
The scope of an individual emergency is limited. The situation only impacts a single or a few individuals and is managed by the response of a limited number of on-site and emergency response personnel. Examples of individual emergencies are a medical emergency or an emotional crisis involving a single child.
School Wide Emergencies
The scope of site or school wide emergencies is broader and encompasses the entire location. Site wide emergencies impact everyone on the campus and stop normal operations. Examples of school wide emergencies include
Code Red Lockdowns, a fire, a school wide utility failure or a bomb threat.
District/Community Emergencies or Disasters
These are large scale events that affect the community as a whole and not just a single or even multiple schools. A typical example would a hurricane. Normal District operations would be disrupted for a period of time.
Depending on the emergency, different levels of response might be required. The Incident Command System will be used to coordinate the districts response to all of these types of emergencies. District operations under these emergency conditions will most likely link to larger operations within the National Incident Management System.
District Level Emergency Response Team
Orange County Public Schools has a district level response team ready to assist work locations in the event of an emergency. When needed, representatives from select district departments activate and move to the site of the incident and assist the Incident Commander in managing the emergency. This district level team will also serve as the district’s link to organizations operating within NIMS.
Site-Based Emergency Response Team (SERT)
At the school or the site level, the SERT Team is the emergency response organization that will coordinate
on-• These SERT Team members perform essential tasks to provide for student safety, secure the facility, communication with parents, coordinate with emergency and district responders, provide for the students well welfare and perform other services as needed.
• These SERT Team members perform essential tasks during an emergency and are not necessarily just those formally assigned to the Team, but encompass any OCPS employee on site who can provide assistance.
• The Principal/Site Administrator will activate the needed SERT roles as determine by the type and scope of the emergency.
District Incident Commander
The District Incident Commander will respond to the site and assist the On-scene Incident Commander in managing the emergency.
• Responsibilities
• Establish District Command Post.
• Determine the level of response needed from the district.
• Determine and request the district resources needed for the response.
• Coordinate with the On-scene Incident Commander. • Update appropriate district level personnel
concerning the incident. • Document all activities.
• Operate within NIMS as required.
• Debrief and document district performance and modify for future actions as appropriate.
Site Incident Commander
The Site Incident Commander is the Administrator or Principal of the school. The Site Incident Commander is the On-Scene Command Liaison in the SERT lexicon. The Site Incident Commander will initiate a rapid and coordinated response to the emergency through SERT Team assignments and the guidelines contained in the OCPS Emergency Response Guide. The Site IC primary responsibility will to provide for the safety and security of the children and the staff on-site. The Site IC has the full authority to make personnel assignments and the decision to lockdown or evacuate the building to preserve life and property absent any other specific direction from a public safety agency.
Responsibilities
• Determine the level of response needed. • Activate the emergency response system. • Call 911.
• Call OCPS Security Control Center 407-317-3333 • Active the SERT Team
• Decide if it is best to lock down or evacuate.
• Make the appropriate announcement to the staff and students.
• Assemble the Crisis Management Kit • Account for all students, staff and visitors.
• Coordinate with public safety emergency responders upon arrival.
Standard District-Wide Response Levels
Level I – Incident has the potential for personal injury or minor property damage that should be reported and responded to immediately by persons within the school or work location environment. Taking specific action or reporting observations to authorities may be mandatory in this type of situation under current laws or guidelines. Additional follow-up and support assistance may be needed.
Level II – Incident has the potential for serious personal injury or serious property damage that should be reported and responded to immediately. Police, fire, and/or medical personnel shall be summoned immediately. The district Security Control Center shall be subsequently notified and security staff will notify the chain of command and other district agencies as appropriate. The principal or senior site administrator should activate the School Emergency Response Team immediately. Additional follow-up and support assistance from district and outside agencies will also be needed.
Level III – Incident poses an immediate threat to personal safety or major property damage and shall be reported and responded to immediately. Police, fire, and/or medical personnel shall be summoned immediately. The district Security Control Center shall be subsequently notified and security staff will notify the chain of command and other district agencies as appropriate. The principal or senior site administrator should activate the School Emergency Response Team immediately. Additional follow-up and support assistance from district and outside agencies will also be needed.
The Four Phases of Emergency Management
Effective emergency response requires a course of action which begins long before an event occurs. There are four distinct phases which must be addressed in the process of planning for and managing emergencies successfully. Prevention / Mitigation
1. Survey school grounds and buildings taking into consideration previous safety and security audit findings.
2. If your school does not have a S.A.F.E. Coordinator, partner with the nearest secondary school and implement intervention and prevention programs based upon identified needs.
3. Establish a safety committee to develop, revise and update school safety plans.
4. Track incidents of student crime and violence and develop proactive programs to respond to them.
Preparation
1. Communicate with parents and faculty that schools have emergency plans in place which are supported by district emergency preparedness efforts.
2. Identify crisis counselors via district SAFE staff and establish communications protocol.
3. Establish procedures to account for students, staff and visitors during an emergency.
4. Conduct emergency drills and evacuations.
5. Ensure that your site-specific Safe School Plan is updated and submitted for approval annually.
6. Assemble and regularly check contents of the School Crisis Management Kit and Portable Trauma Kit as directed in your Safe School Plan.
7. Regularly check the condition of batteries in the bullhorn and flashlights included in your School Crisis Management Kit.
8. Ensure that floor plans with utility shut-offs clearly marked are available.
9. Maintain at least two sets of master keys for sign-out to law enforcement or fire emergency officials upon their arrival on-site. One set should be stored in your site lock box.
10. Ensure all School Emergency Response Team (SERT) members know what is expected of them during an emergency.
Response
1. Identify the type of crisis that is occurring and the appropriate response action (lockdown, evacuation, shelter-in-place).
2. Notify law enforcement or other emergency responders and the ELC Security Control Center at (407) 317-3333.
3. Activate SERT team or specific team roles as needed for an effective response.
4. Provide emergency first aid to those who need it if possible.
5. Maintain communications among SERT members and other key staff.
6. Communicate with classroom teachers during lockdown using Email or other appropriate means. 7. Coordinate with district officials to determine
information to share with staff, students, parents and media.
Recovery
1. Identify students and staff impacted by the crisis and provide necessary follow up services through district SAFE staff or care providers identified in Safe School Plan.
2. Identify age appropriate strategies for providing post-crisis counseling as needed.
3. Conduct debriefings as soon as possible and share accurate information with students, staff and parents as appropriate.
4. Return to normal instructional day as quickly as possible.
5. Fully investigate the emergency and make changes in procedures as appropriate and to prepare for future activities based on the findings.
6. Maintain contact with the learning community, district office and keep everyone informed of actions taken.
7. Evaluate the response to determine if the identified needs were met by the counseling, debriefing, or other activities that were used.
8. Replenish school supplies and resources as required. Note: By definition, acts of Terrorism may be conducted
to promote fear for political or economic reasons. There is a great likelihood that administrators and school teams will not immediately know the motive behind the act. The primary emphasis should be on appropriately managing the emergency using information contained herein as a guide.
Off-Campus Evacuation Planning Actions
Situations may arise that require an off-campus evacuation to ensure the security and safety of students and staff. These situations include a variety of emergencies within the learning environment. Pre-planning procedures for the emergency evacuation of the campus shall address the following minimum requirements:
1. Identify at least four holding areas or assembly points (North, South, East, and West) a minimum of one-quarter mile away from the school location in the event it becomes necessary to evacuate the campus. 2. Establish the desired evacuation routes to the four
holding areas/assembly points on each evacuation plan. Use local street maps to mark the routes.
3. Provide for the special evacuation needs of persons with disabilities.
4. Maintain a copy of the evacuation plan readily available in the school administration office.
5. Orient staff, faculty and students about their specific duties, requirements and responsibilities should an off-campus evacuation become necessary.
6. Provide for the use of the public address system as the primary means of notifying building occupants, when possible.
7. Determine an alternate means of announcing an evacuation in the event the public address system fails or is not available.
8. Post maps in each facility showing primary and secondary evacuation routes and holding/assembly areas.
9. Keep a copy of the evacuation plan readily available at an alternate on-campus location.
Shelter-In-Place Planning Actions
Shelter-in-Place simply means to make a shelter out of the
place you are in. In the school setting, it could result in a campus-wide lockdown lasting for an extended period of time, generally over several hours. The direction to
shelter-in-place is often given by emergency responders
when the release of hazardous materials or chemicals has contaminated the atmosphere creating dangerous conditions outdoors.
Consider the following information when developing plans to shelter-in-place:
1. Announce a Code Red lockdown / shelter-in-place. 2. Advise staff to close all exterior doors and windows. 3. Turn off all ventilation fans, heating and air
conditioning systems.
4. If there are parents or other visitors in the school, provide for their safety by asking them to stay. When emergency responders provide direction to shelter-in-place, they do not want anyone outdoors.
5. Change the recording on the main phone line to indicate that the school is under a Code Red shelter-in-place condition, and explain that students/staff are remaining indoors until directed otherwise by emergency responders.
6. Develop a communications protocol which allows for a continuous flow of information with school staff. Consider using email to communicate with teachers.
District-Wide Emergency Code System
Intention: The Emergency Code System is created as an early warning process to alert those within the learning environment of a potential or actual emergency. This is the emergency code system that the district level staff uses to train all new employees. It is the system the district level staff shares with local fire and/or police emergency personnel responding to district-wide situations. Most of all, this is a simple system easily understood by students. Work location supervisors are encouraged to accept and integrate the standard four-color district- wide Emergency Code System within their site-specific plans.
Definition: The emergency notification system used to alert students, staff, faculty and guests of the need to control movement within the learning environment due to a safety or security threat.
Code Plain Language
Red/Shelter-in-Place
Lockdown
No movement of any kind
Red/LD Lockdown/Laydown
Yellow
Modified Lockdown Limited to essential movement
Blue Bomb Threat
Emergency Response
Key Responsibilities for Administrator(s) (Code Red, Shelter-in-Place Red LD, Yellow)
1. Announce appropriate code. 2. Notify law enforcement.
3. Assist the incident commander (police/fire). 4. Activate School Emergency Response Team. 5. Gather intelligence about incident.
6. Identify components of emergency regarding school schedule, etc.
7. Meet incident commander when he/she arrives.
8. Verify that the chain of command for the incident is clearly understood.
9. Have master keys sets (2 sets suggested) available. 10. Monitor all activities and update emergency
team/faculty.
11. Continuously communicate with police department. 12. Contact Security Control Center, 407-317-3333.
Key Responsibilities for School Emergency Response Team Members (SERT)
(Code Red, Red LD, Yellow)
1. Determine SERT roles needed for incident. 2. Adjust assignments for absences.
3. Utilize Crisis Management and Trauma Kit to equip SERT members as necessary.
Key Responsibilities for Teachers (Code Red, Red LD & Yellow)
If Indoors:
1. Bring students in from halls.
2. Lock all doors – close all shades and/or blinds. 3. Take a head count.
4. Report any missing or additional students in your room.
5. Keep children away from windows and outside walls. 6. In a Lockdown-Laydown, teachers and students
should take shelter under desks, tables, and heavy furniture.
7. Be alert for any developing threats.
8. Be prepared to evacuate, to designated holding areas, if advised to do so.
If Outdoors:
1. Move away from building to a pre-designated safe area.
2. Keep students assembled and take roll counts.
3. Be prepared to provide this information to the person in charge and to move in accordance with additional instructions that may be provided.
4. Do not enter building until authorized to do so.
If Indoors or Outdoors and Code Blue (Bomb Threat) is Announced:
Be prepared to evacuate, if advised to do so, following fire drill plans with possible modifications.
Terrorism – Elevated Homeland Security Alert
Top Priority: Safety and Welfare of Students
and District Employees
Signal:
Notification to increase security precautions resulting from an elevated Homeland Security Alert will be transmitted in various ways. The primary information source for the district will always be through the Safety, Security and Environmental Services office on behalf of the Superintendent.Definition:
The Department of Defense definesterrorism as “the calculated use of violence or the threat of violence to inculcate fear, intended to coerce or to intimidate governments or societies in the pursuit of goals that are political, religious, or ideological.”
Note:
A Homeland Security Severe Alert will be declared only in the event of an imminent site-specific threat. Such an alert is likely to be localized, based on credible intelligence information. Not all areas of the state will be affected in the same manner during a state-wide Homeland Security Severe Alert.The Superintendent’s office, in consultation with local, state and federal law enforcement officials, will determine the appropriate actions for the District to take during periods of elevated alert. When the appropriate actions have been determined, they will be communicated to each principal and senior site administrator.
Steps of Action:
Note:
Should a Homeland Security Severe Alert be declared for the district, the following actions will be considered and the appropriate actions chosen for each school or the district as a whole. This information will then be communicated to each principal.1. Cancel school and related activities. The district may choose not to open schools for a period of time given the specific type of threat.
2. Close schools while in session. The district may choose to release the students early given the specific type of threat.
3. 100% ID check and escort on school grounds. The district may choose to have each school perform ID checks on all visitors to the campus to include district employees not normally on campus. In addition, all visitors would be escorted during their time on campus.
4. Initiate lockdown/shelter in place procedures. The district may choose to use one of the established lockdown procedures as a precaution during the crisis.
5. Transfer to alternate location. The district may choose to relocate some students and staff to another location given the type and specificity of the threat.
6. Cancel school field trips. Planned field trips will be evaluated and possibly cancelled given the type
Uniformed Security Operations section may increase their presence at schools by using marked vehicles and additional patrols to schools throughout the district.
8. Restrict parking near schools. The district, in consultation with local law enforcement, may choose to restrict the parking of vehicles not driven by staff or students near the school.
9. Increase law enforcement presence and/or patrols near schools. The district, in cooperation with local law enforcement, may increase the presence of law enforcement officers on the campus and/or patrols by marked vehicles near the campus. 10. Evaluate the use of all school facilities during
normal working hours and for any after-hours usage. The district may choose to restrict the use of district facilities given the type and specificity of the threat. These restrictions could include normal use of facilities after hours such as sporting events or club meetings as well as use by non-district groups.
Bomb Threat Procedures – (Level I, II, or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use PA system to announce Code BlueDefinition:
An explosive device is alleged to be present in the school or on the premises.Note: Portable radios and cellular phones must not be used during a bomb threat incident unless police or fire emergency responders on-scene authorize their use.
Steps of Action:
1. If a telephone threat is received, obtain as many details as possible using the Bomb Threat Call Checklist at the end of this checklist.
a. Notify law enforcement, who will dispatch police and fire departments and/or emergency preparedness agencies.
b. Evacuate the building, using the special code for a bomb threat (Code Blue) announced on
the intercom prior to activating the fire alarm system. Normal fire alarm procedures should be followed after the fire alarm sounds except leave building as is with doors propped open. c. Activate the School Emergency Response
Team if not an automatic action.
d. The senior administrator on site will meet the first responders with master keys and a floor plan and assist as requested.
e. Notify the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will notify other key agencies and district departments immediately.
f. Staff should be aware of unusual or suspicious boxes, packages, noises, devices, or disturbances in their classroom or in the hallway as they evacuate the building. Do not touch light switches or anything that looks suspicious. Report suspicious items to the senior administrator on site.
g. The school will be searched by school personnel with assistance from public safety and law enforcement if needed. The principal, law enforcement and fire personnel will consider the time indicated by the caller to determine when the building will be searched. 2. If a written bomb threat is found:
a. Once a message is recognized as a bomb threat, avoid further handling of the material.
b. Save all materials, including the envelope or container.
c. Notify the senior administrator on site and he/she will notify 911.
d. If the threat is perceived as imminent, follow the procedures outlined above.
3. Stay in a safe designated area until law enforcement or fire personnel indicate it is safe to return to the building.
Bomb Threat Call Trace Procedures
Elementary and Middle School
1. After receiving a threatening call, if your phone system displays the calling number – write it down and provide the number to law enforcement upon their arrival.
2. If call is from an unknown number:
a. Note the line key that the call came in on – hang up, then lift the handset. b. Depress the line key that the call came in on and dial *57.
c. Notify law enforcement that you have followed this procedure. Tracing information is provided by the telephone company to law enforcement.
High School
1. Contact law enforcement noting the date and time of the incident so a police report can be filed. 2. You will need:
a. The non-emergency phone number of the law enforcement agency. b. The case number.
c. The name of the officer in charge of the investigation.
3. Contact the BellSouth Annoyance Call Center at 407-780-2969. A representative will assist you. Line identifying equipment may be placed on the line to capture call information. Call
Bomb Threat Call Checklist
1. When is bomb going to explode? 2. Where is the bomb located? 3. What does the bomb look like? 4. What kind of bomb is it?
5. What will cause the bomb to explode? 6. Did you (the caller) place the bomb? 7. Why did you (the caller) place the bomb? 8. What is your name?
9. What is your address? (Where do you [the caller] live)
Caller’s Voice
Calm Laughing Lisp Angry Crying Rasp Excited Normal Deep Slow Distinct Ragged
Rapid Slurred Soft Clearing throat Nasal Deep Breathing Loud Stutter
Cracking voice Disguised Accent Familiar If voice is familiar, whom did it sound like?
Background Sounds:
Street Noises House noises Factory machinery Crockery Motor Animal noises Voices Office Clear PA System Static Local Long distance Office machinery Booth Other
Threatening Language:
Well Spoken (Educated) Foul Message read by threat maker Irrational
Taped Incoherent
Remarks:
Report call immediately to: Phone Number:
Fill out complete checklist immediately after bomb threat. Date: Call Police (911) and file bomb report with them.
Found: Explosive Device or Suspicious Object
(Level I, II, or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement Using a
Landline Telephone
Signal:
Use runners, hand signals, voicecommands or any other non-electronic means to issue a Code Blue alert and move everyone to safety.
Definition:
An object, instrument or device found in the learning environment that is perceived to have the potential to explode and do harm to those within the immediate area or damage to district-owned property and/or resources.Steps of Action:
1. Notify law enforcement using a landline telephone. 2. Turn off all radios, walkie-talkies, and cell phones. 3. Evacuate students based on the situation.
4. Contact Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. 5. Hold all bells.
6. Activate School Emergency Response Team if it is not an automatic process.
7. Notify all teachers with classes outside of building to evacuate their students to a pre-determined place of safety.
8. Secure the area from outside access.
9. Isolate all students from the area, calmly ordering students and other to leave the area unless movement will place them in more danger.
10. The senior site administrator should meet law enforcement officials as they arrive and provide them with information about the incident.
11. Make any pertinent information available to police. 12. Establish command post at a specific location, well
away from the device or object.
13. Evacuate the building, if appropriate, as directed by fire, police and emergency authorities. (This may require going door to door to remove and evacuate staff, students and all persons on campus).
14. Refer questions from media to the designated person on site or to the ELC Security Control Center. Security staff will direct media to Community Relations.
Do not use radios, turn on lights or use the PA/Intercom System unless authorized by fire or police emergency officials on the scene. Some devices are triggered through electronic activation.
Bomb Explosion Procedures (Level III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement Using a
Landline Telephone
Signal:
Use runners, hand signals, voice commands or any other non-electronic means to get everyone involved in the incident to safety.Definition:
Any instrument, object or device which causes an explosion in the learning environment.Steps of Action:
1. Determine location and extent of explosion.
2. Notify law enforcement and provide important details regarding the explosion and possible breaks in gas and electrical lines or other special hazards (number of people hurt, extent of explosion).
3. Activate School Emergency Response Team if not an automatic process.
4. Contact the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. 5. Evacuate buildings using evacuation procedures
(without bells) when all flying debris ceases. Special conditions may warrant special instructions to use alternative exits.
6. Make sure evacuation locations are safe from a second explosion or other danger.
7. Assist with injured, wounded or trapped.
8. The senior administrator on site will meet emergency first responders to explain the situation and remain available to assist as required.
9. If an explosion occurs prior to evacuation, students should seek cover under their desks, if possible.
They should cover their heads with their hands and take a kneeling face down position on the floor and should stay in this position until flying debris ceases.
10. No one will be allowed entrance back onto the grounds or building until fire or police emergency authorities give permission.
Fire Procedures - (Level I, II or III)
Top Priority: Notify Fire Department (911)
Signal:
Use PA system to indicate that this is not afire drill. Activate the fire alarm system and use the PA system to issue additional direction to those within the learning environment.
IMPORTANT – Do not clear and reset the alarm system – the fire department needs to read the information displayed on the panel. You may silence the alarm if necessary.
Definition:
There is a fire and it poses a threat to the safety and welfare of those within the learning environment.Steps of Action:
1. Notify fire department and provide details regarding the emergency.
2. Sound the fire alarm immediately.
3. Activate School Emergency Response Team if not an automatic process.
4. Evacuate the building according to the following procedures:
a. Students will walk out of the designated exit in a quiet orderly manner. Teachers should check the classroom and be the last individual to leave. b. Teachers will take their class lists of students as
they exit the classroom.
d. In each class, the student reaching the outside door first will hold it open for the others.
e. Students must go to a designated area that is a safe distance from the building and must not stand in any driveway or other hard surfaced area close to the building; emergency vehicles will most likely use these areas to gain building access.
f. Students not in the classroom when the alarm sounds should report to their teacher’s designated area outside of the building. No one should enter the building when the alarm sounds.
g. Teachers are responsible for the students under their supervision and should take attendance accounting for each child. Children who are unaccounted for are to be reported to the principal/assistant principal immediately.
h. The fire drill plan for evacuating the building is posted in each classroom throughout the year. If the normal evacuation route is blocked, use an alternative route as directed by the teacher. 5. Notify the fire department by calling 911. Provide
important details including possible breaks in gas or electrical lines or other special hazards. Do not clear and reset alarm panel. The fire department will need to read the information displayed.
6. One staff person will be designated to meet the first responder. The designated person (normally the senior administrator) will be ready to provide a master key or keys to the first responder. The
8. Access roads will be kept open for emergency vehicles. The senior administrator on site will have designated an individual or group of individuals to ensure that all access roads are open.
9. Students and staff members will be allowed to return to the building at the direction of the principal, only upon the recommendation of the fire department official on the scene.
10. *Each school must determine primary evacuation routes and safe zones. Each school must also identify alternate evacuation routes and safe zones. For assistance with this task contact the Safety Department at 407-317-3507.
Major Utility Emergency Procedures
(Level II or Level III)
Top Priority:
Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use PA system to make announcementsabout the utility emergency, and then activate the fire alarm if evacuation of the entire school is necessary. In the event of electrical failure and need to evacuate, designated staff would conduct verbal announcement using bullhorns and visual checks of all school areas.
Definition:
An unscheduled interruption of one or more major utility services that has the potential to adversely affect the health, safety or welfare of individuals and groups within the learning environment.Note:
School maps and floor plans which have utility shut-offs clearly marked must be available to emergency responders. Contact facilities maintenance staff to identify appropriate locations.Steps of Action:
Gas Line Break – Top Priority – Notify Law Enforcement
1. Clear the area (evacuate up-wind, if necessary). 2. Notify law enforcement and provide details.
3. Activate the School Emergency Response Team if not an automatic process.
4. Follow instructions of the fire and police emergency officials once they arrive.
6. Teachers are to account for all students on their roll. Report missing students to the principal.
Electrical Hazard (power line down, sparks, exposed wires, etc.) – Top Priority – Notify Law Enforcement
1. Clear the area (evacuate the building, if necessary). 2. Activate the School Emergency Response Team if
not an automatic process.
3. Notify law enforcement and report details of failure and request assistance.
4. Contact Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. 5. Teachers are to account for all students on their roll.
Report missing students to the principal.
Water Main Break or Sewer Break – Top Priority – Notify Law Enforcement
1. Clear the area (evacuate the building, if necessary). 2. Notify law enforcement and provide details.
3. Activate the School Emergency Response Team if not an automatic process.
4. Follow instructions of the fire and police emergency officials once they arrive.
5. Contact Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. 6. Teachers are to account for all students on their roll.
Report missing students to the principal.
Refer media questions to the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will direct the media to Community Relations.
Note: If students have been evacuated, at the end of the school day students who walk home shall be
Large Group Disturbance (Level II, or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal
:
PA system or bullhorn to issue directions.Definition
:
Unlawful actions by a group (students, employees or intruders) that disrupt normal operations or pose a threat to the safety and/or welfare of others in the learning environment.Steps of Action
:
1. Notify school resource officer if available / notify law enforcement.
2. Contact Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will notify the chain of command. 3. Activate School Emergency Response Team and
assign a staff member to meet police and escort them to the location of the disturbance.
4. Hold bells for classes to change until law enforcement personnel indicate it is OK to resume normal operations.
5. Have all available staff members help clear the area. Encourage students to “go about their business” and not get involved.
6. Work with law enforcement to diffuse the situation. 7. Resume normal school schedule once the situation
Parent Refuses to Leave Building
(Level I, II or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
(If Parent is Disruptive or
Uncooperative)
Signal:
Use the PA system to announce theappropriate lockdown code if the situation escalates.
Definition:
A situation where a parent is unwilling to comply with visitor control procedures or becomes abusive or displays belligerent actions toward staff. The situation escalates beyond the control of the school’s administrative team.Steps of Action:
1. Alert an administrator to respond to the area.
2. Listen to the parent’s concerns, offer assistance and try to move him/her to a private area.
3. Try to de-escalate the situation verbally.
4. Ask the person to leave and if cooperative, escort parent to his/her car to ensure he/she exits campus. 5. If parent is not cooperative, notify law enforcement;
stay on the line if possible.
6. If the parent is not cooperative, it becomes a police matter and the officer responding to the scene will handle the situation.
7. Secure campus until the officer has the parent under control.
Campus Intruder (Level I, II or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement if the
Intruder is Hostile/Threatening
Signal:
Use the PA system to announce a campuslockdown should that action become necessary.
Definition:
Individual(s) who have entered the school grounds without properly signing in through the main office and refuses to leave campus when asked by a member of the school staff.General Procedures:
Staff should stop individual(s) and politely inquire about their business in the building or on school grounds. Contact office to be sure they have registered. All visitors should be provided identification badges when they sign in at the office.Steps of Action:
1. Ask the intruder to report to the school office. If the intruder refuses to report to the office, the staff member should contact the office, ask for assistance, advise of the situation and give a description of the intruder.
2. If the intruder is hostile or threatening, notify law enforcement.
3. If the intruder becomes violent, the staff member should notify the school office by announcing Code Red to lockdown the buildings. The school office should use the intercom to notify all classrooms. Code Red should be used when notifying all teachers and staff.
4. Do not confront a hostile intruder. 5. Maintain visual sight of the intruder. 6. All exits must remain unobstructed. 7. Allow the intruder to leave.
8. Notify law enforcement – even if the intruder has left.
9. Staff should escort individual(s) to the office if determined to be non-threatening.
10. If in classroom, the teacher should use two-way intercom to request assistance from the office. 11. If the use of intercom is not possible, ask intruder if
you may be of assistance and communicate in a non-threatening manner that you can send for help.
No Notice Lockdown (Level I, II or III)
Top Priority: Notify Security Control Center
(407)
317-3333
Signal:
Use the school PA system to issue theappropriate lockdown code to those within the learning environment.
Definition:
A perceived threatening situation or an unannounced increase in law enforcement activity in the immediate vicinity of a school.Steps of Action:
1. Notify the Security Control Center (407)-317-3333. 2. Initiate appropriate school-wide lock-down code to
hold students in place. 3. Hold all bells.
4. Activate School Emergency Response Team members as appropriate to the situation.
5. Take measures to protect students, faculty and staff. Everyone should remain indoors until the threat is assessed by law enforcement and a determination is made whether to cancel remaining outdoor activities, delay dismissal, hold buses, etc.
6. Keep students inside the building away from windows and doors of classrooms.
7. Refer questions from media to the designated spokesperson on site or to the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will direct the media to Community Relations.
8. There may be situations that occur at the end of the school day resulting in the delay of dismissal. Do
not allow bike-riders, walkers or buses to leave until cleared by law enforcement and the Security Control Center.
9. Transportation officials will coordinate alternate routes or postponement of some routes if school buses are scheduled to transport students through the crisis area.
10. The ELC Security Control Center will notify the affected school(s) upon receiving notification from law enforcement that their activity has ended. Students can then be dismissed in the normal manner.
Accident/Serious Injury/Illness Procedures
(Level II, or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use the PA system to maintain control and inform staff/students of the situation as appropriate.Definition:
Emergency where one or many are sick or injured. Immediate concern is to aid the injured or sick student(s).Steps of Action:
1. Notify law enforcement. Stay on the line if possible.
2. Give priority to the safety and well being of the student(s).
3. If a qualified individual is available to administer first aid, use him/her as appropriate until emergency personnel arrive on the scene.
4. Contact the student’s parent to notify him/her of the emergency, to advise the parent of the decision to transport for emergency care and request parent to go to the student’s location (school, hospital, clinic.)
Note: Use universal precautions when handling body fluids. The injured/ill student’s medical information must be immediately available including consent forms.
Death or Serious Injury on Campus (Level III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use the PA system to maintain control and inform staff/students of the situation as appropriate.Definition:
Violent actions or events in the learning environment that result in serious injury or death.Steps of Action
1. Notify law enforcement and provide details of the incident. Stay on the line if possible.
2. Determine injuries and provide first aid, as necessary.
3. Restore calm and move students away from the scene. Students should not be allowed to leave class to go to the scene.
4. A site administrator should remain with the victim until a parent or guardian arrives at the school or at the hospital (if victim is a student).
5. Isolate the victim from others.
6. Identify victims and provide appropriate information to authorities.
7. Assess extent of situation by determining who was involved or committed the act. Identify witnesses and remove them to a secure area. Keep witnesses separated. Keep the scene a secure area. Do not clean the area or disturb possible evidence until law enforcement has completed their investigation. 8. Notify the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333.
Emergency Response Team, Community Relations, Transportation Manager, etc...).
9. Refer questions from the media to the designated spokesperson or Security Control Center. Security staff will direct media to Community Relations. 10. Follow site-specific emergency procedures for
communication of information to staff, students, parents, evacuation (if necessary) and media plan. 11. Coordinate with district SAFE staff for follow-up
plan for necessary counseling or other trauma reduction activities.
Suicide Attempt on Campus (Level I, II or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Limited use of the PA system to issuedirections to others within the learning environment.
Definition:
An individual unsuccessfully attempts to end his/her life while within the learning environment.Steps of Action:
1. Notify law enforcement.
2. Activate School Emergency Response Team as appropriate.
3. Call Security Control Center at 407-317-3333. 4. Apply emergency first aid, if appropriate. 5. Secure and stabilize site of the event. 6. Isolate victim from others.
7. Do not tamper with any evidence, or clean area, until police have completed their investigation. 8. A school counseling professional and nurse should
remain with the student until parent or guardian arrives at the school or hospital.
9. Refer questions from media to the designated spokesperson or Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will direct media to Community Relations.
Hostage Situation Procedures (Level III)
Top Priority Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use PA system to announce appropriatelockdown code and to issue directions to those within the learning environment.
Definition:
To detain or hold individuals within the learning environment through the use of force or the threat of the use of force.If a situation should arise where one or more persons hold students or staff hostage on the campus or in the school, the following precautions and procedures should be considered:
Steps of Action
:
1. Notify law enforcement and stay on the line. 2. Notify the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. 3. Announce a Code Red or Code Blue, depending on
the situation.
4. Activate the School Emergency Response Team if not an automatic process.
5. Do not attempt to negotiate with the suspect. Law enforcement has total control of a hostage scene. 6. Set up command post area in conjunction with law
enforcement. Also identify student pick-up area, emergency information area, first-aid area, media briefing area and student stabilization area – all away from the incident scene.
7. Gather all facts regarding the situation for the police. Keep notes on times, any communications
from the person holding the hostage and other information from witnesses.
8. Principal will meet law enforcement and emergency personnel as they arrive and assist as required. 9. Work with the district office and law enforcement
to determine next steps.
10. Refer media questions to the designated law enforcement spokesperson on site or to the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will direct the media to Community Relations.
Instructions if Taken Hostage:
1. Do not attempt to escape unless you are 100 percent sure that you can get away. If you fail, your life is at risk.
2. Accept the situation and do not become argumentative. Do not speak unless spoken to. Do as you are told, no more and no less. Do not make suggestions in case the suggestion does not work. 3. Try to stay calm and to calm the hostage taker. The
calmer the hostage taker is, the safer you are. Do not lose hope and avoid displays of emotion.
4. Request medication if you need it. A hostage taker does not like sick hostages.
5. Be observant. If you are released the police will need as much help as possible about the hostage taker and specific details about the room in which you were held.
6. If the police break into the scene, hit the floor; do not raise your head until told to do so by someone
Weapon Found on Campus (Level I, II and III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use PA system to direct students/staff as appropriate.Definition:
An individual has violated the district’s “Zero Tolerance for Weapons” policy by bringing and leaving a weapon in the learning environment.Steps of Action:
1. Immediately notify the principal and the front office staff, of a suspected or actual weapon on campus. 2. Notify law enforcement.
3. Do not touch or move the weapon or attempt to unload it or otherwise disable it.
4. Secure the area by relocating students or activities and assign a staff member to stay with the weapon until law enforcement arrives.
5. Notify personnel over the intercom, using Code Red to initiate a “lockdown” of all classrooms and hallways until the weapon is secured by law enforcement, if appropriate.
6. If a “lockdown” code is issued, hold all students under teacher supervision in common areas or lockable rooms until “all clear” signal is given. 7. Weapons should not be moved. Wait for law
enforcement. If critical circumstances require moving the weapon, remove all students from the area, carrying the weapon muzzle down (if a firearm) and in a container or bucket.
9. Turn the scene where the weapon was found over to law enforcement personnel when they arrive.
10. Refer questions from media to the designated spokesperson on site or to the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will direct the media to Community Relations.
Student Possession of Weapon on Campus
(Level I, II or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use PA system to issue appropriatelockdown code to those within the learning environment.
Definition:
An individual has violated the district’s “Zero Tolerance for Weapons” policy by bringing a weapon into the learning environment.Steps of Action:
1. Notify law enforcement. 2. Remain calm.
3. Notify Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. 4. Initiate school-wide Code Red to alert staff to hold
students in place.
5. Hold all bells, as appropriate. 6. Isolate the area from all.
7. Once the police arrive and assess the situation and determine that some students or employees may get out safely, escort as many students as safely as possible outside the scene when directed by law enforcement to do so.
8. Monitor access points so no other staff or students accidentally walk into the situation.
9. If near the situation, but not seen by the person with the weapon, do not attempt to overpower the person.
10. Do not enter into the scene or attempt to negotiate. Wait for the police! While waiting for police response, try to find out the following information:
a. What is the weapon? (gun, knife, etc.)
b. Who has the weapon? Was the weapon seen by anyone, or is it a rumor?
c. Where is the student/person now or where is he/she heading?
d. What are the surroundings like? (hallways, cafeteria, classrooms, etc.)
e. Is the weapon on the person? Is it in a locker or backpack?
f. Is there any way to isolate the person?
g. If the person is not a student, is there someone in the building who is related to him or has connections of some kind to him? Who may have had a recent conflict with the person? Could it be a vendetta against staff or another student?
h. Who on the staff may know the person well enough to help calm him/her, if needed by the police?
Discharge of a Firearm on School Property
(Level I, II or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use PA system to issue direction/instruction to those within the learning environment.Definition:
An individual has violated the district’s “Zero Tolerance for Weapons” policy by discharging a firearm within the learning environment.Steps of Action:
1. Notify law enforcement.
2. Take immediate action to assure the safety of students.
3. Notify the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333, Security staff will notify any feeder schools or other schools in the general area.
4. Remove all students and persons from the threat or crime scene area.
5. Isolate individual or suspect.
6. Do not force the person or touch the weapon. 7. Hold all bells.
8. Initiate Code Red lockdown, or the appropriate evacuation code depending on the situation.
9. Activate School Emergency Response Team.
10. Direct students to nearest cover, if they are outside when the incident occurs.
11. Keep students inside the building away from windows and doors of classrooms.
13. If the decision is not to evacuate, keep students in classrooms or under cover until the “all clear” signal is announced.
14. Notify parents of affected students.
15. Identify and isolate any witnesses or students who observed the incident.
16. Refer questions from media to the designated spokesperson on site or to the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will direct the media to Community Relations.
17. Review possibility of relocating students as necessary.
Drive-By Shooting (Level I, II or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Voice, hand signals, PA system or anyavailable means to prevent injury and protect those in the line of fire.
Definition:
An individual(s) discharges a firearm from a moving motor vehicle in the vicinity of or on school grounds.Steps of Action:
1. Direct staff and students to take cover, lie flat and remain calm.
2. If escape is needed, move students to cover by the most direct route.
3. Notify law enforcement and stay on the line.
4. Notify the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333 as soon as possible. Security staff will notify the chain of command and any feeder schools or other schools in the immediate area.
5. Activate School Emergency Response Team if not an automatic process.
6. Render any first aid needed.
7. Initiate “lockdown” procedures as appropriate. 8. Hold all bells.
9. Communicate with staff and students regarding status as soon as possible.
10. Set up the command post area in conjunction with law enforcement.
11. Set up a student pick-up site for parents, well away from the crime scene.
13. Do not allow anyone to leave until police arrive and give permission to do so.
14. Refer media questions to the designated spokesperson on site or to the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will direct the media to Community Relations.
Chemical Spill/Gas Leak Near District Property
(Level II or Level III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use PA system to announce Code Redlockdown “Shelter-In-Place”. Communicate with staff to explain what is occurring and to provide any related information.
Definition:
Situation where dangerous materials near the school could pose a serious threat to the safety of students and staff.Steps of Action:
1. Notify law enforcement to report the incident and provide appropriate details. Do not approach the hazardous material.
2. Provide appropriate details about the material and the chemical number if visible.
3. Once fire/police emergency response personnel have responded to the area, follow their recommendations for action.
4. Communicate with Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will notify the chain of command and any feeder schools or other schools in the immediate area.
5. Activate School Emergency Response Team if not an automatic process.
6. Go inside if chemical odor is detected on school grounds. Report the odors to the emergency response personnel.
8. Cut off all heating and cooling systems if the school is downwind of the incident or within the hazard area. (These systems usually bring outside air into the building.)
9. Listen to TV and radio.
10. Follow the directions of the fire and police emergency personnel as to appropriate actions. For example, they may want the students evacuated in a specific direction that is upwind of the incident or the students may be evacuated from only a portion of the campus.
11. If an evacuation off-site is necessary, immediately contact Security Control Center, 407-317-3333 and Security staff will contact Transportation Services if that action has not already been done.
12. Procedures explained herein would apply in incidents possibly involving weapons of mass destruction.
Hazardous Materials Incident Occurring on
School Property (Level I, II or III)
Top Priority: Notify Law Enforcement
Signal:
Use PA system or any other available meansto prevent students/staff from becoming exposed to the hazardous materials threat.
Definition:
Situation where dangerous materials on the school grounds could pose a serious threat to the safety of students and staff.Steps of Action:
1. Notify law enforcement.
2. Provide appropriate details of the incident and the chemical code number, if visible.
3. Do not approach the hazardous material and keep others away from the scene.
4. Call Security Control Center, 407-317-3333. Security staff will notify the chain of command and any feeder schools or other schools in the immediate area.
5. Activate the School Emergency Response Team if not an automatic process.
6. Determine whether it is necessary to evacuate the building (odors, irritating vapors). If it is, move in upwind direction at least 500 ft. away if possible. 7. Determine whether it is necessary to cut off all
heating and cooling systems to keep odors and vapors from entering the buildings.
8. Follow the directions of the fire or police department emergency personnel as to appropriate actions. For example, they may want the students evacuated in a specific direction that is upwind of the incident or the students may be evacuated from only a portion of the campus.
9. If an evacuation off-site is necessary, immediately contact the Security Control Center, 407-317-3333 and Security staff will contact Transportation if that action has not already been done.
10. Procedures explained herein would apply in incidents possibly involving weapons of mass destruction.
