School Protection and Evacuation Plan (SPEP)

About the Program

Category: Risk and Emergency Management (Best in Category)

Year: 2020

All schools have comprehensive safety plans; however, there are schools within our county that are at higher risk of wildfire. The School Protection and Evacuation Plan (SPEP) is a template that is intended to aid school officials and collaborating agencies in coordinating preparedness efforts to protect life, property, and critical infrastructure at the individual campus level in advance of a wildfire, and to clearly outline procedures and protocols when evacuation or voluntary dismissal becomes necessary.Common public safety terminology is defined in the plan which allows school officials to communicate clearly during emergencies. This plan is designed to guide school administrators in the creation of a locally focused wildfire preparedness and response capability. Working in coordination with fire and law enforcement representatives and district officials, school administrators can add facility-specific information and details to general emergency plans. This provides each school site with its own unique preparedness and response plan. The SPEP also aids in determining safe zones, parent/ student reunification areas, and transportation options if it becomes necessary to evacuate.The safety of school staff and students is a priority during an emergency, the SPEP allows for the most thorough planning for all the collaborating agencies involved.