Editorial | Mock drill saves lives

Disasters can strike at any minute. Fires, earthquakes, floods, or unfortunate accidents happen without notice. During these times, panic and confusion can exacerbate the situation as it develops. It’s important to stay alert. A solid way to stay alert is through mock drills.

A mock drill is a practice. There is not an actual emergency, but it feels like an emergency. Everyone involved acts as if bad things are happening. Everyone follows procedures to be safe. Everyone moves quickly, but with order. Everyone is assisting one another. People listen to instructions. Above all, they are learning.

When they practice frequently, they remember what they are supposed to do. They remember where to go. They remember whom to help. They do not panic. This can save lives.

In a fire drill people evacuate the building calmly. They go to a predetermined meeting spot. They wait for instructions. In an earthquake drill, people take cover. They are away from windows or other heavy objects. In a flood drill, they will go to higher ground.

Each mock drill has its rules. Each drill teaches something. The mistakes made in mock drills help identify problems early on–before there is a real emergency.

Mock drills should not be taken lightly. Schools, offices, hospitals and public spaces must conduct drills regularly. Everyone should participate. Teachers, students, workers, and visitors can all participate. Everyone should be prepared. No one should think “this is just for fun.” These drills are not fun or games at all.

Authorities need to plan and prepare for a mock drill. For example, they should make sure that there are clear signals and signs present. Safety officers must tell people where to go. After the mock drill, an assessment should be done to see what worked well and what did not work well. This can ensure that everyone gets better.

The prepared will remain calm in times of fear.This is the purpose of mock drills: to teach people. Drills help discipline. Drills build courage. Drills create teamwork. When people have rules, they take action faster, which reduces the chances that people may be injured.

A lot of lives are lost during disasters not just because of the disaster but because of panic. When people run without knowing where to go or what to do, they may fall down and become injured, or cause other people to become injured. Regular mock drills can many accidents from occurring.

Mock drills are not important — they are essential. The government, local leaders, school heads, and company managers need to all make mock drills an essential part of their disaster planning and they should start taking part in these mock disaster drills. They should not wait for the tragedy to happen first.