4 Emergency Response - Santa Cruz County Office of Education

Emergency Response
Response: Duck, Cover and Hold On
Duck, Cover and
Hold On during:
n Civil unrest
n Explosion
n Landslide
n Major earthquake
n National Security
emergency
n Terrorism
n Transportation accident
n Winter storm
The call to “duck and cover”
is usually initiated by
classroom teachers. In the
event of an earthquake, the
ground-shaking initiates
the Duck, Cover and Hold
On procedures.
For all other events:
Make an announcement over
the PA system*:
“ Duck, cover, and hold
on. Stand-by for further
instructions.”
Repeat Twice
*If you do not have a PA system or
bell code system, and it is safe to do
so: send runners to each classroom
with above information. Be sure
all classrooms, libraries, cafeterias,
gymnasiums, and all other oncampus
programs and offices are
also notified.
Duck and cover is a self-protective action called for whenever there is immediate danger
from flying objects and/or falling debris. Usually initiated in earthquakes, it is an appropriate
response for a number of different threats, such as severe weather or shooter-on-campus.
Duck, Cover and Hold On Procedures
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Sound alarm for situations other than earthquake
Notify staff and students
When the threat passes, make “All Clear” announcement and issue
call to “Resume Regular Activities” or direct another response
action (such as Evacuation, Cancellation or Closure of School
Students, staff, and employees drop immediately to the floor and crawl
under their desks (or a table or work bench). Use one hand to hold onto
the furniture/table and the other to cover the back of your neck
Indoors
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Stay put until “All Clear” announcement is made
Check for injuries and make sure everyone is accounted for
Hallways and Bathrooms
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Kneel next to a bare, inside wall and place your hands over the back of
your neck
Stay put until “All Clear” announcement is made
Check for injuries and make sure everyone is accounted for
Outdoors
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Move away from trees, billboards, signs, buildings, electrical wiring and
power poles
Drop to the ground and cover the back of your neck with your hands
Stay put until “All clear” announcement is made
Check for injuries and make sure everyone is accounted for
NOTE: After an earthquake, remember to stay alert for aftershocks!
Em e r g e n c y Re s p o n s e & Crisis Ma n a g e m e n t 4.18 2007 – 2008