Enhancing School Safety: A Five-Part Series on Crisis Management at IWHS
Part 3: Understanding the “Hold” Protocol
In our ongoing series on enhancing school safety, we’ve already covered two critical emergency response protocols: Lockdown and Secure. Today, we delve into the Hold protocol, which plays a vital role in managing potential threats or disruptions within the school setting that don’t necessarily require a full lockdown or secure response.
What is the Hold Protocol?
The HOLD protocol is typically activated when a situation in or around the school requires students and staff to remain in their classrooms or designated safe areas without leaving for any reason but does not necessarily pose an immediate life-threatening danger. Essentially, the HOLD protocol ensures that the learning environment is protected while maintaining a sense of control and order during an potential crisis management event.
In other words, HOLD asks for students and staff to stay in their current locations and not leave the classroom or designated areas until further instructions are provided. The main goal is to minimize the potential for unnecessary exposure or risk to anyone in the school during a developing situation.
When is the Hold Protocol Used?
There are various circumstances where the HOLD protocol may be the most appropriate response. These can include, but are not limited to:
Police or Law Enforcement Activity Nearby: If there is a law enforcement operation in the vicinity of the school (for example, a police pursuit or a situation near the campus), the Hold protocol can help limit movement and reduce exposure to any potential risk. The SECURE protocol may also be used in these situations. The HOLD protocol is typically used when the issue is believed to be brief.
Medical or Safety Situation: A medical emergency, an incident requiring the involvement of emergency services, or other similar events might prompt the Hold protocol. The goal is to maintain calm and prevent anyone from inadvertently entering an area that could pose a risk or compromise privacy.
Suspicious Activity: If there are reports of suspicious activity or a potential threat that doesn't yet warrant a LOCKDOWN or SECURE, but still requires temporary vigilance or investigation and controlled movement, a HOLD can contain the situation and prevent further complications.
Law Enforcement Activity on Campus: Illini West conducts periodic campus-wide searches with K-9 drug dogs. The HOLD protocol is used during these searches.
Key Actions During a Hold
While the HOLD protocol is less intrusive than the LOCKDOWN and SECURE protocols, it still requires clear communication and coordination. Here's what should happen when the Hold protocol is activated:
Classrooms and Designated Areas: All students remain in their classrooms or designated safe areas.
No Movement in the Hallways: All students and staff are to remain inside and refrain from moving through hallways. It is essential to keep hallways clear to maintain safe spaces and avoid confusion.
Clear Communication: Teachers and staff will keep students informed to the extent possible to ensure students understand the context in which the HOLD protocol is being used.
Accountability: Teachers will take attendance to ensure all students are accounted for and safe. Any missing persons will be reported immediately to administrators.
Continual Assessment: Depending on the situation, the decision may be made to escalate the response to a SECURE or LOCKDOWN protocol or to return to normal operations once the threat or concern is resolved. Staff must be prepared to adjust based on the evolving nature of the incident.
The HOLD protocol is a key component of a school’s overall crisis management plan. It helps to maintain control during uncertain situations, without escalating the response unnecessarily. By ensuring students and staff are aware of the steps to take during a HOLD, we can minimize risk, promote safety, and help everyone stay calm and informed.
In the next installment of this series, we’ll dive into the EVACUATE protocol, explaining when and how to safely evacuate a school when the need arises. Until then, stay safe and stay informed!
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