LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) – — At 10:07 am on Wednesday, the students at Brenda Cowan Elementary school began filing into the hallways. They’d reach their assigned spots with their group, and then assume the position.
“The big thing is we try to isolate the kids to interior hallways, to protect them from window, breaking glass and flying debris” said Captain Brad Dobrzynski of the Lexington Fire Department. “They did great! Everything was very organized, which is what we like to see,” Dobrzynski added.
And because it happed a little more than 24 hours after at least 24 people lost their lives in the devastating Nashville tornado, the students were able to more firmly grasp the reason behind the drill.
“Because of the tornado in Nashville, we should all learn what to do in a tornado, especially now that it’s tornado season,” said 5th grader Abdul Rahman Alyafi.
The drill, which was conducted inside public schools, and other buildings across the commonwealth was part of “Severe Weather Aware Week.” As we get into the spring season, warmer temperatures can fuel those strong storms, which can result in tornadic activity without even a moment’s notice. Learning not only where to shelter in place, but how to best cover up can be critical components to saving lives, or at the least, reducing injuries when damaging storms hit.
“…covering your head, nose, mouth things like that,” Dobrzynski said.
And practicing for the unexpected.
