The Forest Hills School District is working closely with public health and safety officials in response to national warnings pertaining to potential terrorist threats. Depending on the nature of the emergency – including situations involving chemical, biological and/or radiological materials – school system staff will act under the direction of the Superintendent and the appropriate emergency management agency. The ability to remain flexible is a key component to each schools crisis plan.
The District may lockdown, shelter-in-place, dismiss early, or transfer to evacuation sites, depending upon the situation and direction from the building Principal and the Superintendent. Parents are advised to pay close attention to public announcements on radio, television, and the Forest Hills School District Web Site. This site will be updated as needed. Parents may also contact the Forest Hills School District by calling the School Closing and Emergency Preparedness Hotline, 231-3600, ext. 3995 for updated information.
Pandemic Flu
Many in the medical field are saying that it’s not a matter of IF there will be a pandemic flu outbreak as much as WHEN. Just like every other emergency situation, Forest Hills School District has plans for how to address such a situation should it arise. Please review the documents (found at right under Forms) to learn more about avian flu and swine flu and how to protect you and your family.
Shelter-in-Place
What does shelter-in-place mean?
One of the instructions that could be given in an emergency where hazardous materials may have been released into the atmosphere is to shelter-in-place. This is a precaution aimed at keeping staff and students safe while remaining indoors.
Why might you need to shelter-in-place?
Chemical, biological or radiological contaminants may be released accidentally or intentionally into the environment. Should this occur, local authorities will provide information and school crisis plans will be implemented.
What are the shelter-in-place procedures schools will follow?
The school doors will be closed and locked with students and adults maintained inside. The school emergency plan will then be activated. The building will have restricted access to parents depending on the crisis situation.
For their safety, visitors and volunteers in the building will be asked to stay.
Staff will gather essential emergency supplies including “Red Safety Bag.”
- Follow attendance procedures
- Close all windows and secure exterior doors
- Shut down the building’s mechanical systems
- Turn off all fans and heating and air-conditioning system
What procedures should parents follow for the release of their child?
In the event that a Red Alert is issued by the Department of Homeland Security, and you feel it necessary to remove your child from school, no student will be released without the consent of a parent. Parents wishing to sign their child out should report to the school’s command center and sign a release form. It is important to update any emergency information that has changed since the beginning of the school year. This should include accurate home and work phone numbers and who is permitted to pick up your student.
However, if the school is in lockdown or shelter-in-place, procedures to pick up your child will be implemented in conjunction with the directive issued by the local and county-wide emergency service professionals.