Classroom Lockdowns

A classroom lockdown is an emergency procedure where students are confined to their school rooms in response to certain kinds of threats to their health and safety. A lockdown can be a frightening experience for students, faculty and parents, but its aim is to protect students by isolating them from the source of danger. What form a lockdown takes depends on the nature and circumstance of the specific threat and whether it is external to the school (such as a bomb threat or police action in the neighborhood) or internal (such as a school shooter).

External Threats

• Students remain in their classrooms. Students outside the building are told to go indoors.
• External doors are locked to prevent unauthorized access; hallways and restrooms are cleared.
• Shades are drawn. Students are instructed to stay away from windows.
• Low level of classroom activity may continue depending on the immediacy of the threat.
• The lockdown will remain in effect until an administrator announces “all clear.”
• A lockdown may be changed to an evacuation order if officials determine students would be safer if they are removed from the school.

Internal Threats

• Students and staff are routed to the nearest classroom or secure space.
• Those outside the school must remain outdoors.
• Classroom doors are locked but external doors are left unlocked to allow easy access to emergency responders.
• Students are told to remain quiet and stay away from doors and windows.
• Lights are turned out.
• The lockdown remains in effect until an administrator indicates “all clear.”

How to be More Prepared

• Have a clear plan and practice it regularly.
• Ensure teachers understand lockdown procedures and their individual responsibilities.
• Lockdowns should proceed with calm discipline to maintain order and avoid frightening students.

Classroom Lockdown Kits

• A basic lockdown kit includes toilet and sanitation necessities.
• A deluxe lockdown kit also includes food, water and other emergency supplies.