League Policies
NCFCA uses a Standard Response Protocol (SRP) for tournament safety situations. It provides key terms which are used by schools, organizations, businesses, and first responders across the world. Tournament participants are expected to be familiar with the five specific actions they may need to perform during a safety incident.
- HOLD “In your classroom or area”: This instruction means to clear hallways, remain in your current room or area, and continue with business as usual (debate rounds can continue, current speaker can continue) until “All Clear” is announced.
- SECURE “Get inside. Lock outside doors”: This means everyone remains inside the facility with doors locked doing business as usual.
- LOCKDOWN “Locks, Lights, Out of Sight”: This means to move away from sight, lock doors, turn out lights, maintain silence, prepare to evade or defend until released by a first responder.
- EVACUATE “To a Location” to be specified: This means to leave everything behind and go to the specified location.
- SHELTER “State Hazard and Safety Strategy”: Instructions will be provided based on the hazard.