Critical Incidents
A critical incident can be defined as an intolerable situation, an unstable condition, or a sudden change that disrupts the normal operation of an individual, group, organization, or community, and demands immediate attention and resolution.
Schools/sites are often affected by critical incidents that occur both within the school/ site and also the community at large. Incidents, such as those listed below, can have a tremendous impact on students, staff, parents, and other members of the community.
- Fire
- Death / Serious Illness
- Suicide
- Inclement Weather/Power Outage
- Earthquake
- Intruders
- Bomb Threat
- Medical / Mental Health Emergencies
- Hazardous Material Spill/Explosion
- Missing Student
- Violence / Weapons / Threats
All schools/sites are expected to plan for critical incident response and maintain a minimum level of preparedness.
The purpose of developing a ‘plan’ is to prepare a school/site to respond more efficiently and effectively to critical incidents, mitigate effects and reduce the potential for injury, loss of life, property damage and trauma. This planning process also provides an opportunity to introduce response procedures to staff, students and parents.
Each school/site must take ownership of their ‘plan’ and review it on an annual basis. Parent and neighbourhood involvement will increase the success of a school/site plan.
