Mock lockdown drill tests readiness at Whitewood and Rocanville schools

May 4, 2026, 2:24 pm
Nicole Taylor Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Sgt. Damien Grouchy speaking to Rocanville students and staff after the lockdown drill last Tuesday.

Emergency responders and schools in Whitewood and Rocanville took part in co-ordinated mock lockdown exercises on April 28, aimed at strengthening preparedness in the event of a real crisis.

The drills involved local fire departments, Emergency Medical Services, and RCMP, all of whom responded as though the situation were real. Emergency crews arrived on scene in approximately 10 minutes, simulating a full-scale response.

EMS and local fire department crew prepare to enter the building during the lockdown drill.

Officials emphasized that the exercise was focused on preparedness rather than fear. No police intervention tactics were used during the scenarios, as the goal was to help students and staff practise procedures in a controlled environment. School staff and students were praised for their professionalism and for following established lockdown protocols. RCMP members noted significant improvement compared to a similar exercise conducted more than a year ago, citing stronger overall readiness and response.

To better assess real-time reactions, the lockdown drills were not announced in advance to students or staff. Organizers say this approach helped create a more realistic training environment and allowed emergency planners to evaluate how procedures would unfold during an actual incident.

Members from the RCMP, EMS and the local fire departments at Rocanville school last Tuesday after the lock down drill.

Following the exercise, RCMP members led a debriefing session with students, staff, and emergency personnel to review performance and discuss key takeaways. Sgt. Damien Grouchy said the RCMP was impressed with the outcome and that the students were well prepared and trained, and that when the first responders put their ears up to classroom doors, they could not hear anything from the students.

Principal of Rocanville School, Nathan Bromm, said conducting these drills is important to ensure students know how to respond in the event of an emergency.

A police unit parked outside Rocanville school during the lock down drill.

The initiative is part of a broader plan by South District RCMP to have each detachment in southern Saskatchewan conduct at least one school lockdown exercise in partnership with local emergency services. The program is intended to strengthen coordination among schools, police and first responders while ensuring all parties understand their roles during critical incidents.

Residents with questions about school lockdown procedures are encouraged to contact the Moosomin or Broadview RCMP detachments.