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Emergency Preparedness & Response
FCPS takes every possible precaution to assure the safety and well being of students and staff. In the event of an emergency, Central Office administrators take direction from the law enforcement and emergency agencies responsible for coordinating our community’s response. All schools have plans that provide specific direction for a wide variety of critical incidents.
Security Responses
Depending on the nature and scope of the situation a school may be directed to:
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Dismiss students early
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Shelter in place (stay inside)
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Evacuate students to an alternative location, or
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Establish an emergency shelter for the community
Staying Inside
If we are instructed to protect students by keeping them inside, family members may not be permitted to pick up children until it is safe to do so. This will last no longer than necessary for safety purposes, and we ask parents' cooperation and understanding.
Heightened alert: Be aware that the usual routine may change; stay tuned
Partial lockdown: Only authorized access to the building, no students allowed outside unsupervised, activities conducted as usual inside the building
Full lockdown: Doors locked, no one enters or leaves, students and staff stay inside until crisis situation clears
Safety Plans
For more information about school safety plans, contact your school principal or visit these sites:
To learn more about preparing for and responding in a community emergency, check these links:
Health Emergency Links
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{FCPS Emergency Graphic}
Get Emergency Bulletins
For the fastest, most reliable information, check the following:
Plan Back-up Care
Pre-arrange emergency back-up care for your child in the event that schools close unexpectedly. Teach your child what to do in case you are not at home when school closes, and provide the school with the name and number of someone nearby who is usually available when you are not at home.
After-School Activities
Generally, when schools are closed for reasons of an emergency, school-sponsored after-school and evening activities are cancelled or postponed. |
