The best way to deal with a disaster or an emergency is to be prepared. Librarians must be aware of the emergencies which could arise, be ready to respond to them when they occur, and recover from them afterwards. Guidelines are offered by the Illinois School Library Media Association (ISLMA) to assist in the preparation of a disaster plan and the…

This guide is designed to meet the security response needs of educators and law-enforcement personnel by detailing how an effective response plan can be developed to deal with school violence. By implementing the guidelines detailed in this book, those in responsible positions can help prevent the incalculable costs of death and chaos these acts…

This contingency plan is intended to stimulate emergency planning and provide an organizational tool for Illinois schools to use in the development of individual emergency plans. It may accommodate and complement a school's current contingency plan and will allow for the inclusion of additional material concerning school safety. It is intended as…

The first version of this guide was developed in response to the 1993 Safe Schools Act that required the State Board of Education to develop materials, models, and curricula addressing school safety. It recommended the development of conflict resolution and mediation materials to address responsible decision-making among students; the causes and…

This booklet outlines the environmental problems most likely to arise in schools. An overview provides a fundamental analysis of environmental issues rather than comprehensive analysis and advice. The text examines the concerns that surround superfund cleanups, focusing on the legal framework, and furnishes some practical pointers, such as what to…

The themes in this seminar addressed the recognition and measurement of outside threats, preventive measures and degrees of protection, and the responsibility of education authorities and the development of partnership policies. The seminar demonstrates that schools should come out of their isolation and introduce partnerships that can ensure…

A brief look at the art teacher's legal liability for student accident or injury in the art room, plus tips for maintaining a safe classroom. (SJL)

A study completed by the fire department of the City of Winnipeg has documented the effectiveness of smoke detectors in reducing fire losses. The entire Winnipeg fire prevention program is described. (MLF)

Flammable liquids are one of the major causes of institutional fires, yet proper care and handling can reduce the danger. (Author)

The wood frame school in San Jose (California) could be built in most jurisdictions and meet building code requirements of the area. (Author/MLF)

The number of school fires is up nationwide. This article describes unsafe school conditions, problems with new fire codes, and the factors that contribute to school fires. Installation of sprinkler systems is recommended. A fire-safety checklist is included. (LMI)

Although wired glass is extremely common in school buildings, the International Building Code adopted new standards that eliminate the use of traditional wired glass in K-12 schools, daycare centers, and athletic facilities. Wired glass breaks easily, and the wires can cause significant injuries by forming dangerous snags when the glass breaks.…

Describes how the largest school district in Utah complied with the regulations for school safety--the Occupational Safety and Health Administration expanded chemical hazard communication standard and the Environmental Protection Agency Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986. (MLF)

Discusses successful cooperative relationship between school staff and firefighters to bring fire safety education to elementary school students with visits, presentations, contests, and a day-long Fire Expo held each year. (ET)

Preparation for college campus crises (natural disasters, violence or unrest) is discussed. Specific suggestions are made for three distinct areas of readiness: (1) response to the situation; (2) response to the students; and (3) personal response. (MSE)