3: In the Case of an Emergency

During this week's fire drill, room 3050's emergency bag
sits and waits outside with the students.

Being Ag teachers, we know that sometimes our classes can contain hazards. In the shop there are saws, drill presses, and welders while in the classroom there can be chemicals, sharp objects, and other places where students need to practice extra caution for their safety.

But what about the instances where our actions don't determine if we stay safe?

This week we heard of the high school in Kentucky where a shooter killed and injured many individuals. Nearby in Lebanon county the Annville-Cleona high school was placed on lock down because of a crime committed nearby where the suspect was on the loose with a firearm. Other emergencies can occur when there is a building fire or a natural disaster. 

In these situations the most important thing to remember is student safety. Are my students here? Are they safe? Are they all accounted for? Each school has a different policy that a teacher should familiarize themselves with. To throw another wrench in the safety procedures, have you ever thought about how to keep your students safe if an emergency occurs while on a field trip? My suggestion is to make an "emergency bag" to take with you on every trip! 

What to put in your Emergency Bag:

• Bottled Water
• Pair of Gloves
• Tissues
• Emergency blankets
• Flashlight with batteries
• Glow Sticks
• Whistle
• Hard Candy
• Compass
• First Aid Kit
• Band-Aids
• Gauze Pads
• Antibiotic Ointment
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Medical tape
• Cotton Balls
• Hand Sanitizer

This is a list of items that are suggestions! Be sure to look at school policy to see what the regulations are for items that you can have around students. Add or remove items to this list at your own discretion. Always keep your bag at the ready and remember that student safety is our number one priority!