SCHOOLS AND EARTHQUAKES.

Manawatu Herald, Volume L, Issue 3963, 2 July 1929, Page 2

SCHOOLS AND EARTHQUAKES.

SHOULD CHILDREN LEAVE THE BUILDING? At last night’s meeting of the District High School Oomtoiittee the headmaster (Mr. F. A. Mason) wrote as follows: — ‘With regard to earthquakes I would be glad of a mandate from the Committee respecting the best course to follow when earthquakes occur during school hours. It is” very difficult indeed to know just what to do for the best at such times —whether to evacuate the buildings or to keep the children in their seats. It seems to me that whatever course is followed great risks are taken, and perhaps it would be well if the 'Committee, as representing the parents, were to give me the benefit of their considered opinion .and advice on the matter.” The chairman said it was difficult to lay down any definite rule. To evacuate the building hurriedly had its risks and perhaps shelter beneath the desks would afford refuge. Mr. Ross said to evacuate the building would be to incur a greater risk owing to crowding the exits. Mr. Scott was of opinion that ample exits were provided from all class rooms and the safer method would bo to quit the building. Mr. .Smith, stressed the danger of confusion in leaving the building. It was suggested that the teachers should exorcise their discretion in such circumstances, but that tests should be made on giving an alarlm to ascertain the time in which the children could be got out of the building.