Small Steps, Safer Schools
Improving school safety doesn’t always require major changes or big budgets. Clear procedures, regular training, and simple verification can make a meaningful difference.
Some of the most important improvements begin with making sure responsibilities are clear, procedures are understood, and safety measures are working as intended. Here are some practical ways schools can get started:
Establish a sign-in/sign-out process for all school visitors.
Assign specific staff members to complete and document school opening and closing checks.
Define which doors should be locked, unlocked, or monitored at different times of the school day—and routinely verify that those procedures are followed.
Maintain a log of incidents, near-misses, and corrective actions.
Regularly test emergency communication procedures.
Confirm which staff members can call 911 or initiate protective actions.
Clarify who is responsible for supervising students during recess, arrival, dismissal, transitions, and other outdoor activities.
Document hazards that cannot be corrected immediately, put temporary safeguards in place, and assign responsibility and a deadline for permanent repairs.
Inspect emergency exits, gates, playground equipment, and other frequently used facility features to confirm they are functioning properly and free of obvious hazards.
This resource provides general guidance only and is not intended to be comprehensive or to replace professional, legal, safety, engineering, or facility-management advice.
About Ready, Set, Safe!
Ready, Set, Safe! is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping ensure children are safe everywhere they learn and play. Founded after seven-year-old Alex Quanbeck was killed when a gate fell on him during recess at his elementary school, the organization works with families, schools, safety experts, industry leaders, and policymakers to identify hidden hazards, promote regular, comprehensive school safety assessments, strengthen safety standards, and advance policies and practices that help prevent injuries before they occur. Its work includes ongoing advocacy to improve gate safety nationwide.
