**EBCB - FIRE DRILLS** **Last Updated Date:** 02/25/2014 **Adoption Date:** 01/10/2006 The school district will cooperate with the South Hadley Fire Department in maintaining fire-safe conditions within all school buildings and in regularly conducting fire drills for the protection of students and staff. The principal of each school with the assistance of the head custodian has the responsibility for periodic inspection of every room, corridor and space in the school. Purposes of these inspections are to remove any fire hazards, to ensure that flammable supplies and materials are properly stored, to check the condition and proper location of all fire extinguishers and alarms and to ensure that there is no obstruction in any corridor or stairway. Fire drills, by state law, must be held monthly at each school under the supervision of the fire department. Instructions for fire drills will be printed in the teachers' and students' handbooks.  Instructions with regard to the primary and secondary exit routes will be posted in a prominent place near the door of every room. The fire drill shall include the complete removal of teachers and students from the building in an orderly manner by means of designated fire exits to places of safety on the grounds outside the building. Attendance will then be taken by each teacher. The fire drill all-clear signal will not be given until attendance reports are received by the principal. In the event of fire, drill procedures must be followed. It is vitally important that teachers and administrators act quickly and calmly to maintain order and prevent panic. **Policy References:** M.G.L. 69:lA; 71:1; 71:55C