Part 2: Understanding the "Secure" Protocol
In our ongoing series about enhancing school safety, we are exploring each of the Standard Response Protocols (SRPs) used by Illini West High School for crisis management events. Today, we will focus on the Secure protocol, an essential strategy designed to protect our students and staff from threats or potential harm.
What is the "Secure" Protocol?
The Secure protocol is part of a comprehensive approach to managing school safety during incidents where there is a threat or concern in or around the school building. The term "Secure" is used to safeguard people inside the building when there is a potential for danger outside the building—such as a suspicious person or vehicle on school grounds, nearby law enforcement activity, or a general external threat—and the goal is to keep everyone inside the school building and prevent access from the outside.
When the "Secure" protocol is enacted, the school focuses on locking down the outer perimeter of the building while continuing the normal functioning of school activities inside.
Key Steps in Implementing the "Secure" Protocol:
Immediate Locking of Exterior Doors:
The first action is to ensure that all exterior doors to the school are locked and secure. This prevents unauthorized access to the school while keeping everyone inside safe. Depending on the situation, classroom and internal doors may be locked as an added precaution or remain unlocked, however normal activities continue within.
Clear Communication to Staff and Students:
Teachers and staff will be notified immediately of the protocol change. This will be done through a public address system and/or our Crisis Go app. It's important that everyone understands that the threat is external and does not immediately pose a direct danger inside the building.
Continuing Normal School Activities:
Unlike a lockdown, where activities are suspended, the Secure protocol allows for the continuation of classes and daily routines, although teachers and staff are on heightened alert. Hallways remain clear, but normal transitions between classes, lunch, and other scheduled activities proceed. Transitions to external activities such as dual credit courses and work co-op programs will be delayed or canceled.
Monitoring the Situation:
School officials will remain in close contact with law enforcement and emergency responders during a Secure protocol. As the situation evolves the district will adjust actions as new information becomes available.
Regular Updates:
Keeping the school community informed is key. Updates should be provided as needed, ensuring everyone understands the evolving situation. This ensures that staff can continue providing the best support for students.
When is the "Secure" Protocol Used?
The Secure protocol is used when there is a threat or risk that exists outside the school building. Some common scenarios where this protocol might be activated include:
Police Activity in the Area: If there is a police chase, investigation, or other law enforcement activity nearby, the school may enact Secure to prevent the suspect from entering the building.
Suspicious Person or Vehicle: If a person or vehicle is observed loitering around the perimeter of the school or in the vicinity with no apparent legitimate purpose, Secure may be activated as a precautionary measure.
Natural Threats: In cases where there is an environmental or natural risk outside, such as a nearby structure fire, downed electrical lines, or dangerous weather event near the school. Secure protocols help ensure that students and staff are kept safe inside until the threat is mitigated.
Why is the "Secure" Protocol Important?
The Secure protocol is a critical part of our crisis management toolkit because it allows us to respond effectively to threats without disrupting the daily learning environment. By focusing on external threats, the protocol helps keep students and staff safe while maintaining the continuity of the educational process. It serves as an important reminder that, while external dangers may arise, our primary role remains to protect the well-being of every individual inside the school building.
As we continue to enhance school safety through proactive measures and well-established protocols like Secure, it’s vital that we educate and practice these strategies regularly with our students, staff, and law enforcement partners. By doing so, we ensure that everyone is prepared, aware, and able to respond swiftly and appropriately in times of crisis.
Stay tuned for the next installment in our series, where we’ll discuss the "Hold" protocol and how it differs from Secure in handling more immediate internal threats.
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