To help ensure the safety and security of our school communities, HPEDSB has comprehensive procedures for and response to emergency situations, which includes specific plans to keep students, staff and others safe in the event of a crisis.
Lockdown is used as a response to a major incident or threat of school violence within the school or school area. Students and staff report to the closest classroom or secure location, classroom doors are locked, curtains and blinds are closed, lights off.
Hold and Secure is used as a response to an ongoing situation outside the school that is not related to the school. External doors are locked and staff and students cannot leave the building but are able to move freely around the school.
Shelter in Place is used as a response to an external situation that may or may not be related to the school. Staff and students move freely within the school. The school is considered a safe haven where it is necessary to keep everyone inside to protect them from the external situation.
Propane Safety: Due to the size of our propane tanks, we are required by law to have a safety and evacuation plan in the (very unlikely) event of a propane emergency at the school. This plan includes yearly evacuation drills that are similar (but not the same as) fire drills.
Fire Safety: We are also required to have a fire safety plan that explicitly outlines the steps and responsibilities required to keep our students and staff safe in the event of a fire. This plan includes a requirement for three fire drills in the fall and three in the spring. As with the propane evacuation drills, we will always endeavor to complete these drills on days that are warmer and drier.