• Preparedness

    Safe Mode is a protective action used to safeguard faculty, staff, and students from an EXTERNAL THREAT due to law enforcement activity near the school or a potentially dangerous situation near the school. Schools will typically be placed into SAFE MODE by the Boston Police Department or BPS Safety Services, but each school can enter SAFE MODE on its own.

    Familiarize yourself with the system used to warn you to go into Safe Mode. This may be the public address system, if available, or an intercom system. If the only method to communicate within the school is the bell system, note the warning bell system used to warn everyone to Safe Mode. 

    • Warning System Used
    • Safe Mode  Procedures 

    LISTEN CAREFULLY FOR INSTRUCTIONS 

    IF INSTRUCTED TO GO INTO SAFE MODE: 

    • Take refuge in the nearest classroom, office, or other room. 
    • Direct anyone immediately outside your area into the nearest room. 
    • Close and lock or secure all doors. 
    • Close and lock the windows. 
    • Close the blinds or shades to prevent anyone from seeing inside the room. 
    • Turn off all the lights. 
    • Direct students to sit quietly on the floor away from windows and doors. 
    • Prevent students from leaving the room. 

    IF THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM SOUNDS: 

    • Evacuate if there are visible signs of fire. 
    • Await instructions if there are no signs of fire.