When we imagine the absolutely unimaginable — a school emergency situation — we might think of what security equipment would be available. How fast can emergency responders get on the scene? How will they get inside? How will the kids and staff stay safe? What if it’s a fire? A natural disaster? A bomb threat? An active shooter? Does the type of emergency drive the procedure? In times of stress, will the kids remember what steps to take to get to safety?
A Standard Response Protocol (SRP) – a uniform, planned, and practiced response – transcends the circumstances. This protocol serves as the foundation of a safe school environment, allowing everyone — from students to teachers to first responders — to communicate effectively during crises — ANY crisis.
Developed by The “I Love U Guys” Foundation, the SRP was created with comprehensive collaboration among first responders, public safety officers, schools, districts, and communities to address the critical need for a common language in all emergency situations. When an emergency strikes, confusion can be detrimental. The SRP provides precise, consistent vocabulary and procedures that everyone understands, reducing panic and ensuring a coordinated response.
In the simplest terms, the SRP means: Everyone is on the same page.
By standardizing the vocabulary, everyone can easily and quickly understand directives and procedures, even when in crisis mode. By constantly reinforcing the SRP, students always know what to do in case of an emergency; teachers can easily train and run drills, and parents and communities know what to expect — even when the unexpected occurs.
The SRP has five steps. Each step has a common word or phrase + a directive.
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HOLD + directive: "In Your Room or Area" is the protocol used when hallways need to be kept clear of occupants.
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SECURE + directive: "Get Inside. Lock Outside Doors" is the protocol used to safeguard people within the building.
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LOCKDOWN + "Locks, Lights, Out of Sight" is the protocol used to secure individual rooms and keep occupants quiet and in place.
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EVACUATE + the location is used to move people from one location to a different location in or out of the building.
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SHELTER + State the Hazard & Safety Strategy is used for group and self protection.
A detailed Standard Response Protocol for K12 Schools & Districts, updated for 2025, as well as posters and collateral materials, are available for free downloads.