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Emergency Lockdown Procedure

Purpose

The purpose of this Emergency Lockdown Procedure is to protect the safety and well-being of all children, staff, and visitors in the event of a potential or immediate threat to the childcare facility. A lockdown may be initiated to prevent harm and ensure controlled, secure supervision until the situation is resolved.

Definition

A lockdown is used in situations that may result in harm to individuals inside the childcare facility, including but not limited to:

  • An active shooter or violent threat in the area

  • A trespasser on or near the premises

  • A disturbance within or near the facility

  • Any perceived threat within a 2-mile radius, at the discretion of management

Authority to Initiate Lockdown

  • Management personnel (Director, Assistant Director, or designated Administrator) have the authority to initiate a lockdown.

  • Lockdown will be announced clearly over the intercom by stating:
    “LOCKDOWN. THIS IS A LOCKDOWN.”

Step-by-Step Lockdown Procedures

Step 1: Immediate Announcement

  • Management announces “Lockdown” over the intercom.

  • All staff must immediately stop normal activities and initiate lockdown procedures without delay.

Step 2: Secure Children in Classrooms

  • All children remain inside their assigned classrooms.

  • If necessary, children may be moved into:

    • Classroom bathrooms

    • Storage rooms (only if safer and appropriate)

  • Children must not be moved between classrooms unless directed by management.

Step 3: Secure the Classroom

Teachers must immediately:

  • Lock classroom doors

  • Turn off all classroom lights

  • Pull down blinds and fully cover windows

  • Ensure no visibility from the outside

Note:
All exterior doors are normally locked daily and must remain locked during the lockdown.

Step 4: Maintain Calm and Quiet

  • Teachers must keep children calm and quiet.

  • Engage children in silent or low-voice activities, such as:

    • Quiet story reading

    • Whispered reassurance

    • Sitting calmly together

  • No crying, loud talking, or movement near doors or windows.

Step 5: Attendance & Supervision

  • Teachers take attendance immediately once secured.

  • Confirm that all children assigned to the classroom are present.

  • Any discrepancies must be reported to the Director as soon as safely possible.

Step 6: Silence and Visibility Control

  • Silence all electronic devices (phones, tablets, classroom technology).

  • No lights, sounds, or movements that could draw attention.

  • Staff should remain positioned away from doors and windows.

Step 7: Communication Protocol

  • Only management communicates with:

    • Emergency services

    • Corporate leadership (if applicable)

    • Parents/guardians

  • Teachers should not contact parents during a lockdown unless instructed.

  • Staff should remain alert for updates via intercom or direct instruction.

Step 8: Remain in Lockdown

  • Staff and children must remain in lockdown until an official “All Clear” is announced by management.

  • Do not unlock doors or exit rooms unless instructed by management or emergency personnel.

After the All-Clear

Reuniting with Parents

  • Management will initiate parent communication and reunification procedures.

  • Children will only be released to authorized guardians following standard identification protocols.

  • Teachers must continue supervision until all children are safely released.

Documentation & Review

  • Management will document:

    • Reason for lockdown

    • Duration

    • Any issues or concerns

  • Procedures will be reviewed after drills or real incidents.

  • Updates will be made as needed to improve safety and response effectiveness.

Training & Drills

  • All staff must receive training on lockdown procedures upon hire.

  • Lockdown drills will be conducted regularly in accordance with licensing and local regulations.

  • Age-appropriate language will be used during drills to avoid fear or distress.

Staff Expectations

  • Remain calm at all times

  • Follow procedures exactly as outlined

  • Protect, reassure, and supervise children continuously