News Release - District-Wide Safety Drill Held

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News Releases

San Diego City Schools Holds District-Wide Safety Drill

All 200+ district schools and offices participate in earthquake simulation

Media Contact: Music McCall (619) 725-5598 Fax: (619) 725-5576
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February 23, 2006

SAN DIEGO – To test student and staff response in the event of a major earthquake, San Diego City Schools (SDCS) held a district-wide earthquake cover/hold drill today. Under the scenario, a magnitude 6.9 temblor with an epicenter near downtown San Diego caused violent shaking and structural damage; because of the location of the epicenter, the formation of an isolated tsunami was possible.

“Although San Diego City Schools has never seen a major emergency of this type, we want to make sure we’re prepared,” said SDCS Chief of Police Don Braun. “We will use the results of this drill to evaluate our existing disaster plans and make adjustments as necessary to ensure the safety of our students and staff.”

Under district procedure, in an earthquake, staff members give a “cover and hold” command at the first indication of ground shaking. Students and staff assume a protective position under a table, desk or other support object, or in a doorway. After the shaking stops, students and staff are directed to remain undercover for at least two to three minutes to assess damage and injuries. Sites then activate their evacuation and assembly plan, which includes directing all students and staff to an area on school/site grounds that is away from buildings, trees, utility poles, exposed wires, and similar hazards.

To provide maximum security for staff, students, and other occupants of each school or site, principals and site administrators regularly meet with their staff to review emergency plans and procedures. Staff at each site meet regularly to go over plans that include a site map showing utilities shut-off valves, first aid/supply stations, and designated areas for prolonged medical care. Schools or sites with staff or students with disabilities direct special attention to the disposition and medical needs of those staff/students.

Schools and central office sites are required by law to hold earthquake and other emergency drills a certain number of times each year, however, this drill went above and beyond the legal requirements. "A simulation like this is especially effective in highlighting what we need to do when disaster strikes, so that people know the correct procedure and how to respond appropriately and safely," said Braun. “That’s why it is so important each of our sites participated.”

Grant Elementary School Principal Bruce McGirr noted that his site has many physical preparations for an emergency situation. “We have shelters, water, nonperishable food, and activities for our students, among other things. Our school is prepared for a long-haul situation.” Still, he says, a drill can help expose ways to improve existing disaster preparedness efforts.

In the next few weeks, SDCS leadership will prepare a written evaluation report concerning effectiveness during the drill and identify areas needing improvement. The district will examine possible changes to be made, and consider additional training needs.

About San Diego City Schools
Serving more than 135,000 students, San Diego City Schools (SDCS) is the second largest school district in California, with 200 educational facilities and more than 14,500 full-time equivalent positions (representing more than 18,800 employees). The district is committed to accelerating gains in student performance, supporting schools and enhancing the classroom learning environment through modernized facilities and resources. SDCS also seeks to strengthen parent, community and higher education support of the educational process.

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