Responding to Emergencies

Disaster Distress Helpline (SAMHSA)

This Helpline provides counseling and support to anyone experiencing emotional distress related to a natural or human-caused disaster 24-hours a day. 

• Call 1-800-985-5990
• Text "TalkWithUs" to 66746

Tools and Guidance for Preparing and Responding to Specific Emergency Situations 

Active Shooter

• Active Shooter Resources and Support- Guidance on preparing for and responding to an active shooter incident 

Air Quality

• Outdoor Activities based on Air Quality- Guidance on when to limit outdoor activities and planning considerations for schools 

Bus Accident

• OPI Pupil Transportation- OPI guidance on bus driver training and forms for responding to accidents involving school buses 

Cyber Security

• Cyber Security Event- Planning guidance on preventing and responding to a cyber security breach 

Death of a Student or Staff Member

• After a School Tragedy- How to prepare, respond, and recover after the death of a student, staff member, or community member
• Coping with a Sudden Death- Guidance for responding to the death of a student including role descriptions and check-lists at various administrative levels   
• Informing Students of a Tragedy- Guidance on forming messaging for students and staff 
• Protocol for Death of Student/Staff Member- Step-by-step guidance on communicating about the death of a student or staff member including sample messages for principals 

Earthquake

• The Great Montana Shake Out- Resources for planning earth quake drills 

Severe Weather

• Severe Weather Safety and Social Medial Toolkit- Toolkit for preparing for severe weather events 

Wildfire

• Prepare for a Wildfire- Tips to protect property from damage from wild fire including a preparedness check-list 

Emergency Planning and Safety Home