State of New Jersey Fire Drill Requirements for Schools
New Jersey adopted new fire drill regulations in 2009 and 2010. School districts have to hold two emergency evacuation drills in the first 10 days of the start of the school year. In addition, schools must complete one security drill and one fire drill. The purpose is to make sure school districts are well prepared in case of an emergency such as an evacuation, an active shooter in the building or a bomb scare.
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Two Drills at Start of School Year
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In September 2009, the state Department of Community Affairs adopted a policy mirrored on "The 2006 International Fire Code." This requires each school district to hold two fire drills within 10 days of the start of classes in the fall. This rule applies to any school building or structure used for education, with more than six children in kindergarten through senior year. In most school districts, principals keep a log of when fire drills take place. There are penalties if New Jersey districts do not comply: A district can be fined up to $100 per offense and/or a school principal can be penalized.
One Fire and One Security Drill Monthly
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The New Jersey Department of Education decided in 2010 that each school must hold one fire drill and one security drill every month, effective Nov. 1, 2010. The law is aimed at improving emergency preparedness. A security drill is not the same as a fire drill. Security drills allow students and staff to practice procedures such as what to do in cases of a bomb threat, a person with a gun in the building, an evacuation or a lock-down. (A lock-down is when the school is secured to keep people from entering or exiting during emergencies.) Any of these incidents could happen in a school district, especially in the wake of tragedies like the Columbine shootings, so personnel simulate all types of emergencies.
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Details
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The law now allows for public school teachers to physically lock the doors and exits during a practice lock-down drill, which wasn't allowed before. Districts should vary their security drills to touch upon several scenarios. Some districts, including the Winslow Township School District, restrict communication and access between parents and school personnel during the drills. They treat the drills as if they are real-life situations. School leaders are encouraged to work with their local fire departments and other emergency responders to complete the drills. Each district's safety and security plans should be updated to reflect the new information.
Regional Training
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All full-time district personnel must be trained on school security, safety and drills. The Department of Community Affairs (DCA) holds regional training opportunities throughout New Jersey. The classes teach school leaders how to implement the drills, as well as the specifics of the 2010 requirements stating there must be one fire drill and one security drill every month. The sessions run for a half day and are free. Register through the State Education Department or by emailing schoolsecurity@doe.state.nj.us.
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References
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