Quarterly Joint Safety Meeting
Local Partners explore safety at High School Athletic Events
West Linn-Wilsonville joined the West Linn Police Department, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue, West Linn and Wilsonville City Officials, and other agencies to discuss safety and security on Wednesday, Oct. 3.
The West Linn-Wilsonville School District regularly partners with local leaders in school safety, meeting multiple times every school year to discuss safety and security measures for students and the larger community. Providing a safe and welcoming school environment for our students, staff, volunteers, and community members is a top priority for each of us, which is why our organizations routinely practice emergency safety situations that could arise within the West Linn-Wilsonville School District.
On Oct. 3, the group took a moment to walk through potential incidents that could take place during High School Athletic Events. First Responders, local law enforcement, TVF&R, and district officials worked through scenarios, lending their perspectives and experiences. While every situation and incident brings its own unique challenges, Wednesday's Table Top exercises helped officials think about incident priorities, solidify communication channels and better prepare for potential emergency events.
Safety Updates
West Linn-Wilsonville School District:
Operations Director Tim Woodley shared a few of the district's safety updates, including the completion of WLWV's Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), school-specific EOPs, Emergency Safety Guides, and district-wide Emergency Radios.
Clackamas County Sheriff's Office:
Clackamas County Sheriff Craig Roberts shared progress in school safety that is currently taking place at the state level, as well as Clackamas County developments in safety and security. Sheriff Roberts noted that Clackamas County continues to bolster Threat Assesment Teams and resources as well as promote the SafeOregon Tip Line. Clackamas County continues to prioritize mental health. Wilsonville Chief of Police Robert Wurpes also shared safety and traffic updates.
West Linn Police Chief Terry Kruger noted some important personnel additions, including the promotion of two captains, a sergeant, and new Emergency Operations Manager among other recent hires. Chief Kruger added that there's is a great deal of excitement within WLPD as the department continues to build community relationships.
Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue:
In addition to increasing emergency response education throughout the West Linn-Wilsonville Community, TVF&R Assistant Fire Marshall Kate Stoller informed local partners that the newest TVF&R fire station is set to open, with a public Open House scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 6. Located on Hidden Springs Road near Trillium Creek Primary School in West Linn, the fire station will provide increased access and availability for the West Linn-Wilsonville community.
Athletic Event Procedures Before, During, and After an Event
The pair also shared their procedures and protocols during and after games. In particular, the pair emphasized the importance of maintaining clear access for emergency medical responders in the event of an on-field injury or safety hazard. WLWV Athletic Directors also highlighted the importance of after-event procedures and protocols, including keeping parking lots and exit ways well lit in addition to debriefing events with key parties.
Improving Safety In Emergency Situations
How the Public can help
During any school event, and especially in the event of an emergency situation, it's important for event attendees to:
- Keep fire lanes and emergency access points clear. Please DO NOT park in areas that will block or inhibit first responders.
- Maintain contact and communication with your students, especially middle school-aged students.
- Please be mindful of school policies and expectations at high school athletic events. That includes practicing sportsmanship, refraining from bringing in outside food, drink, and other items posted at ticket entrances, and practicing safe behavior at all times.
- Follow direction from law enforcement and district officials in the event of an evacuation or emergency. Directions will always be given over the PA system.
Rapid Resources
About West Linn-Wilsonville
Email: kilstroa@wlwv.k12.or.us
Website: www.wlwv.k12.or.us
Location: 22210 Southwest Stafford Road, Tualatin, OR, USA
Phone: 503-673-7000
Facebook: facebook.com/wlwvschools
Twitter: @wlwvdistrict