Intruder Drill at Moline H.S. - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

Intruder Drill at Moline H.S.

By Natalie Zarowny
nzarowny@cbs4qc.com

 Since Columbine in 1999, schools across the country have incorporated preparing for a shooting as part of their emergency drills.

"It definitely makes me feel better to know that the school district is taking precautions," said Ann Brill, a parent of two students at Moline High School.

On Thursday, Moline High School had a ‘Code Red Drill.'

"We're required to have fire drills and tornado drills, but we also practice issues in case we would have to lock down for whatever reason," said Moline High School principal, Dan McGuire.

A lock down could happen if there's a bomb threat, a student is missing, or like Friday morning in Connecticut, a shooter comes into the building.

The procedure is planned out to a T.

"Administratively and security wise, we go around the perimeter, make sure everything's locked up, the door and windows," said Principal McGuire.

Meanwhile, everyone gets into the nearest classrooms.

"So work stops, and individuals are to move away from the doors, make sure the doors are closed and locked and again, move away from the windows, and remain quiet," said Principal McGuire.

Teachers can communicate with security and staff from inside the classroom and let them know if there's something happening in that room.

It's a system parents said is comforting to have.

"If something were to happen, you put in your plan and hopefully your plan's going to work," said Kathleen Vanderginst a parent of a student at Moline High School.

On the other side of the river, Davenport Police increased security at schools today.  School leaders said they also have very strong crisis and emergency plans in place.