Lockdown drills scheduled for Hillsborough County students
TAMPA (FOX 13) - All schools in Hillsborough County will hold a lockdown and evacuation drills this week.
Starting Tuesday, students will participate, and school officials say the drills will not include active shooter simulations, loud noises, or violent images as the goal is not to scare students.
The procedures will include taking cover, locking doors, hiding, and staying quiet.
Officials say parents were informed about the lockdown drills in advance, which allowed them time to talk with their children. It will not be a surprise drill, and teachers are being asked to talk with students before the drill and emphasize it is only for practice.
Superintendent Jeff Eakins says the school district has increased security measures over the last four years including additional security cameras, controlled access, and fencing.