Preparedness for Schools FAQs
Common Questions
What is a school emergency preparedness plan?
A comprehensive written plan that covers evacuation, shelter-in-place, lockdown, medical emergencies, parent reunification, and recovery. Most states require schools to maintain a formal emergency preparedness plan by law. Requirements vary by state, so check with your local school district or state education agency for specific guidelines.
What are the state requirements for school emergency plans?
Requirements vary by state. Most require a written safety plan, annual updates, regular drills (fire, earthquake, lockdown), parent notification procedures, and specific supplies (first aid, Stop the Bleed kits). Check with your state Department of Education.
What is the "Standard Response Protocol" (SRP)?
The Standard Response Protocol (SRP) is a framework developed by the I Love U Guys Foundation for school emergency response. It uses five directives: Hold (in your room), Secure (get inside, lock outside doors), Lockdown (locks, lights, out of sight), Evacuate, and Shelter (hazard-specific).
How do I train teachers on emergency response?
Provide annual training on SRP or ALICE, Stop the Bleed, basic first aid, fire evacuation, and lockdown procedures. Free resources include I Love U Guys Foundation, American Red Cross, and Stop the Bleed courses. Document training completion annually.
What does ALICE stand for, and how is it used in school emergency response?
ALICE stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate — a training program giving school staff proactive options during an armed intruder event. Unlike traditional lockdown-only protocols, ALICE encourages real-time decision-making. Training is available through the ALICE Training Institute for teachers, administrators, and staff.
What should be in a teacher emergency kit?
A teacher emergency kit should include a class roster, parent contact info, a lockdown kit (food bars, water, portable toilet, first aid, flashlight, whistle), class comfort items for students, and an emergency go-bag with shoes, a warm layer, and personal medications.
Do you provide printable school emergency planning forms and guides?
Yes. We have planning guides and printable forms available for classrooms and schools on our School Emergency Preparedness Resources page. (mike link from 'School Emergency Preparedness Resources') https://www.emergencykits.com/emergency-preparedness-documents-for-schools