Emergency Action Plan

Lockdown & Emergency Response Policy

1. Purpose

This policy establishes clear procedures for the safety and security of students, instructors, and visitors in the event of a serious external threat requiring lockdown during a class. This could include incidents such as an act of violence, terrorism, or an immediate external danger to the club premises.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all instructors, staff, students, parents/guardians, and visitors attending Defensive Fitness training sessions. 

3. Lockdown Procedures

3.1 Initiation of Lockdown

Upon identifying a serious threat, the senior instructor or designated staff member will immediately initiate the lockdown by announcing “LOCKDOWN” loudly and clearly.

3.2 Immediate Actions

Instructors and Staff:

• Calmly instruct students to stop activities immediately.
• Guide students to the designated safe area within the training venue (e.g., storage rooms, changing rooms, secure internal areas).
• Lock all doors and secure all windows.
• Turn off lights, close blinds (if applicable), and ensure everyone remains silent.

Students:

• Follow the instructor’s directions without delay.
• Move quickly to the designated safe area.
• Remain silent, stay low, and avoid making any unnecessary noise.
• Put mobile phones on silent mode immediately.

4. Communication

• Contact emergency services (999 or 112) immediately, providing clear details of the threat, the club’s location, and any relevant specifics.
• Maintain communication with emergency services until the situation is resolved.
• Do not open doors or reveal your location to anyone claiming to be a police officer until visual confirmation of their identity is possible. If in doubt, request the emergency operator to verify their identity by having the officer announce a pre-agreed safe word.

5. During Lockdown

• Instructors must conduct a headcount to ensure all students are present.
• Remain in lockdown until an official all-clear signal is received.
• Encourage students to remain calm and silent.
• Keep mobile phones on silent but accessible for emergency updates.

6. All-Clear Signal

Lockdown will remain in place until:

• The emergency services (Police, Fire, or relevant authority) confirm that it is safe to resume normal activities.
• The senior instructor receives a verified all-clear signal.

The all-clear should not be assumed solely based on a verbal announcement. Ensure visual confirmation of the emergency services’ presence or verification through the 999 operator before opening any doors.

Once the all-clear is given:

• Calmly guide students back to the main training area.
• Ensure any injured persons receive first aid if required.
• Only discharge students to their designated parent or guardian in line with standard safeguarding protocols.
• Liaise with emergency services regarding when it is safe for students and staff to leave the premises.

7. Post-Lockdown Actions

• DFA will report the incident to the BMABA Safeguarding Unit without delay via safeguarding@bmaba.org.uk.
• Conduct a debrief session with staff and students involved.
• Review the lockdown procedure and identify any necessary adjustments.
• Provide appropriate support or counselling to any individuals affected by the lockdown.
• Report any additional details required by the Police or emergency services.

8. Training & Drills

• DFA will ensure that at least one lockdown training session per year is conducted for all instructors and staff.
• Conduct periodic lockdown drills with students to ensure preparedness, but always with prior parental consent and appropriate forewarning.
• IMPORTANT: Lockdown drills must be conducted responsibly to prevent undue distress, particularly for younger students.
• All students must be informed in advance to avoid unnecessary panic or trauma.

9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or following any lockdown event to ensure its effectiveness and to make necessary updates.

10. Contact Information

Designated Safeguarding Lead Officer:

Scott Deane
Email: safeguarding@defensivefitness.co.uk  
Telephone: 03333 390 660

For Safeguarding Concerns:

BMABA Safeguarding Team:

Telephone: 01798 306546
Email: safeguarding@bmaba.org.uk