Washoe County School District Outlines Emergency Codes for Student Safety

NEVADA – The Washoe County School District has unveiled its emergency response plan, which includes distinguishing codes for various types of emergencies. In particular, code yellow and code red are utilized during incidents that require security action.

Code yellow is activated when there is a threat near the school or an incident that requires security measures. In such cases, all exterior and main interior doors are locked to prevent unauthorized access to the building. Staff and students are instructed to carry on with their activities, but in a limited manner.

Code red, on the other hand, is in response to a life-threatening emergency that occurs within the school or in its immediate vicinity. It necessitates immediate, evasive action from staff and students, using physical barriers and obstacles to protect themselves from injury or death. The primary objective of code red is to ensure the safety of all occupants during the incident.

According to Roy Anderson, the WCSD Emergency Manager, parents are advised to keep their phone numbers and other contact information up to date so that they can receive emergency messages. He also referred parents to the district’s website, washoeschools.net/alert, which provides alerts and updates about school emergencies.

Families are encouraged to develop an emergency plan and discuss with their children what actions to take in the event of an emergency. On Thursday, virtual and in-person forums will be held to provide more information on the emergency response plan.

For more information, visit washoeschools.net/safetyforum.

Credits: KOLOTV