WHY PREPARE

Taking action now can save lives, prevent injury, and minimize property damage in the moments of a crisis.  If you do not have a crisis plan in place, it is time to develop one.  If you have one, review, practice, and update your plan.  This information is designed to assist schools and communities in either situation.  Although every school's needs and circumstances are different, this information provides general guidance that can be adapted as appropriate to each district's or school's circumstances.

If you have children in school:

 

DO NOT go to the school to pick up your children unless told to do so by school officials. If you go to the school, you may be putting yourself and your children in danger when doors are opened to allow you to remove your children from their safe shelter.

DO NOT try to call your child's school. If there is an emergency, phone lines will be needed for official business. Students will be taken into schools and cared for or evacuated by bus to a safe haven.

School safety is a priority in Athens County .  Every Athens County school has an emergency plan that they routinely practice.  Knowing and following these procedures can lead to increased community safety.