With high-profile school shootings such as Columbine, Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook, and others, people may worry about their safety while attending school and other public events.

“Coming to school is a little scary now with all these shootings,”senior Quazer House said, “but I feel safe because of all the security measures at Southern Lehigh.”

This year at Southern Lehigh some small but effective changes have been made to help reduce any possible intrusions or harmful intent upon the students. These measures include locking all classroom doors at all times and not allowing anyone in the building unless they are buzzed in at the main entrance.

During a code red, teachers are required to cover the windows in the doors with paper. In case of emergency, the intruder cannot see inside the classrooms. If the students are quiet, the intruder cannot get in, and see in the classroom, the less of a chance there is that the intruder can cause harm.

“For people to be aware is fantastic,” Officer Brian McLaughlin said. “As long as people are aware, it gives us a better chance of preventing mass shootings.”

According to Officer McLaughlin, Upper Saucon Township Police Department, along with others, are planning to set up a mock shooting at Southern Lehigh High School, which will help the officers practice in case of a real emergency. Parkland High School conducted a mock shooting like this in the summer of 2012. Upper Saucon would like to replicate the training exercise; however, it will take up to three or four years of planning for it to happen.