GNTC Campus Police to Hold Active Shooter Lock Down Drill

Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) Police will be conducting an active shooter lock down drill on the on the Whitfield Murray Campus on Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 10 a.m.

According to GNTC Training Director Lt. Gary McConathy, the drill will not be a high casualty simulation and will be teaching employees and students the basics on how to survive in the event of an actual threat. The drill will last approximately 30-45 minutes.

“This year I would like us to continue our discussions with our students and employees on the topic of safety,” he said. “I would like for these to be open and honest discussions addressing all safety options faculty, staff and students feel should be considered as well as any concerns they may have.”

At 10 a.m., the lockdown drill announcement will be given via the on-campus alert system. At that time, the campus will be in modified lockdown with all classrooms and doors being locked. While safety teams conduct their sweep of the building instructors will have discussions on how to respond to an active shooter situation. Staff without a classroom will report to a designated room.

“It’s important to note for visitors to the campus that no one will be allowed to move around in the buildings during the lockdown drill. Anyone not in a classroom or office will be directed to the nearest room for the duration of the drill,” stated McConathy.

The “All Clear” will be given once all buildings have been checked and GNTC will continue normal operations. GNTC Police will be asking students, faculty and staff for their input on the drill and put forth any safety concerns they think may need to be addressed.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) provides quality workforce education to the citizens of Northwest Georgia. Students have the opportunity to earn an associate degree, diploma, or a certificate in business, health, industrial, or public service career paths. This past year, 12,785 people benefited from GNTC’s credit and noncredit programs. With an annual credit enrollment of 7,499 students, GNTC is the largest college in Northwest Georgia. GNTC has an additional enrollment of 5,286 people through adult education, continuing education, business and industry training, and Georgia Quick Start. GNTC is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia and an Equal Opportunity Institution.

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John Popham Marketing Media Specialist