On 21 January 2025, a mock drill was conducted in Delhi Public School Patna to evaluate and enhance the preparedness of students, staff, and faculty in case of emergencies. The exercise aimed to simulate an emergency situation and test the effectiveness of the evacuation plan, while also familiarizing everyone with safety protocols.

SEQUENCE OF EVENTS

Alarm Activation:
The drill commenced at 12:35 PM. The sounding of the hooter marked the start of the evacuation process. Students promptly followed the "Drop, Cover, and Hold" procedure as instructed in previous safety sessions. They immediately dropped to the floor to minimize the risk of falling, took cover under sturdy tables, and held on securely to ensure stability.

Evacuation
The students, teachers and the staff moved towards the designated assembling points. All exits were used in an orderly manner, ensuring no crowding or panic. Headcount was done by the class teachers while the Search and Rescue team thoroughly inspected the building to ensure that no one was left behind. The medical staff were stationed at the assembly point to handle any minor injuries or health issues while the ambulance arrived in time. Meanwhile, the housekeeping staff took precautionary measures by shutting off the gas and electricity.

Observations

The mock drill was conducted unannounced to assess the real-time preparedness and response of students and staff in an unexpected emergency scenario. The sudden activation of the alarm tested everyone’s ability to act promptly and follow safety protocols without prior intimation. The evacuation process was completed within 4 minutes. Students displayed discipline and awareness during the drill.

Challenges and Areas of Improvement

Some areas for improvement were identified, including better signage for evacuation routes and more frequent drills for enhanced preparedness.

• The sound of the hooter was not audible in certain areas, highlighting the need for improvements in the alarm system to ensure full coverage across the building.
• Most of the teachers were not carrying the first aid box.
• Students in the corridors, believing it to be a real earthquake, instinctively began running toward open areas in search of safety.
• It was noted that some students opted to use their usual staircases instead of the designated ones, highlighting the need for conducting more drills to reinforce proper evacuation procedures.

Despite the element of surprise, the evacuation was carried out efficiently, showcasing the effectiveness of prior training and awareness programmes. The unannounced nature of the drill also highlighted areas requiring improvement, such as quicker decision-making and adherence to instructions, reinforcing the importance of readiness at all times, managing congestion at exit points and ensuring accurate headcounts. Enhancing the frequency and effectiveness of drills will equip everyone with the skills and confidence needed to tackle future challenges seamlessly.