NCJ Number
179395
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 66 Issue: 10 Dated: October 1999 Pages: 94,96,98
Date Published
October 1999
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes the policy of the Montgomery County Police (Maryland) in responding to critical incidents of school violence, based on a study of incidents of school violence throughout the country, notably the Columbine school shootings in Colorado.
Abstract
Two important components -- command and communication -- were problems in Colorado because of multiple-agency response and the lack of mutual radio channels. Because of these problems, crucial information did not reach the officers inside the building and inner perimeter quickly enough. To further complicate matters, the continuing noise from the fire alarm made it more difficult to address the immediate threat and complete the rescue effort. The Montgomery County schools are now using a code system with predetermined evacuation routes to staging locations that provide cover and are out of the line of fire. This eliminates the need for noisy alarms that add to the chaos and prevent officers from hearing voices, screams, shots, or explosions. These sounds can help the first-responders to choose an entry location and address the threat. The decision for first responders to enter will be made by the on-scene supervisor after assessing the weapons threat. Entry teams are taught to move rapidly to the threat, moving to various positions of cover in the process. For critical incident training to be successful, it is necessary to work closely with school security and the school administration. Montgomery County's training for school personnel involves 18 instructors and uses five high schools each training day. The training consists of lecture, familiarization, and hands-on scenarios, all of which emphasize a team approach. Additional table-top exercise training with fire and rescue and school personnel is necessary for a smooth, coordinated effort.