What’s the Difference Between a Lockout and a Lockdown?

At BPS101, we use the terms “lockout” and “lockdown.” While they may sound similar, the procedures for each are very different.

Lockout

A lockout secures the perimeter (doors and windows) of a building to minimize exposure to a safety threat outside, such as criminal activity in the area.

During a lockout, no person (parent, student, staff member, guest, etc.) may enter or leave the building and classes will proceed as usual (to the extent possible). A lockout ends when the police department confirms that the threat has passed.

In a lockout situation, the school(s) involved will post the sign at right in the front door window to alert visitors of the situation.

Lockdown

A lockdown is a physical response to an imminent safety threat inside the building, such as an intruder or attacker. A lockdown response is situational and may include running away, hiding in a secure space, or even fighting the attacker. In a lockdown, staff members and students will evaluate their options to determine safest course of action.

In either a lockdown and lockout, schools will act with the safety of students and staff in mind, and school officials will always in coordination with police and fire departments. So that we can keep our focus and effectively manage our emergency resources, we kindly ask that you do not attempt to contact us during a lockout our lockdown. We will always communicate with parents as soon as it is practicable—our first priority is keeping students safe.  

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