Safety Drill

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My son came home from school yesterday and told that they had a "code green." Confused, I asked him what code green meant. He laughed and said, "Silly Mom. That's when we practice what to do if there is an intruder in the building."

Although I am a constant volunteer up at the school and on the PTA, I had no idea that they routinely did these safety drills. Fire drills, yes. Intruders... well, it honestly never crossed my mind.

My son, who could sense my confusion, suggested that he tell me all the different code colors, what they mean, and what they do during the drill.

Here goes...

Code Green means that there is an intruder in the building. My boy said his teacher locks the door and they hide behind the bookcases while remaining silent. He also told me all the ways that he could "easily take out" anyone who dared to intrude into the building. What a hero.

Code Red means there is a possible tornado in the area. The students file out into the hall and sit down next to the wall with their arms over their heads.

Code Blue means there is flooding in the area. My boy was convinced that his teacher would throw something through the large window in the classroom and that he would then "dive out." I'm going to have to inquire further about this one.

Code Yellow means there is an animal, "like a skunk, wolf, fox, snapping turtle or vicious beaver that might be trying to attack you," in the building. Yes, he really did say "vicious beaver." Apparently the course of action is to keep the classroom door shut.

I, for one, am going to sleep like a rock knowing that these fail-safe procedures are in place.