What is the main purpose of a lockdown drill?

The primary purpose of a lockdown drill is to ensure the safety of students and staff by preparing them to respond effectively to an internal threat, such as an active shooter or other forms of violence within the school. During a lockdown drill, students and teachers practice procedures, such as securing doors, finding safe locations within classrooms, and remaining quiet and calm until the situation is resolved. This preparedness is critical because it helps to reduce panic and confusion during actual emergencies, thereby increasing the chances of keeping everyone safe.

In contrast, other options focus on different types of safety drills. While fire safety drills are essential for preparing for fire emergencies, they are distinct from lockdown drills, which are specifically tailored to address threats that originate within the school environment. Similarly, although teaching emergency exit routes is vital for situations like evacuations or fires, lockdown drills do not emphasize this aspect and are not designed for exiting buildings. Assessing classroom management is unrelated to the concept of a lockdown drill, as these drills focus more on safety protocols rather than instructional strategies or classroom control methods.