Emergency Procedures

The San Mateo Union High School District is a member of the San Mateo County Coalition for Safe Schools and Communities. Through this collaborative process, the Coalition produced the Big Five, a common emergency plan adopted by all San Mateo County school districts and law enforcement agencies. The Big Five protocol supports high-quality training for school staff and community members and ensures clear channels of communication among schools, first responders, parents, and community members should an emergency occur.

Additional information can be found on the San Mateo County Office of Education’s website.

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Immediate Action Response - The Big Five

The Big Five is a common emergency plan adopted by all San Mateo County school districts and law enforcement agencies. Created by San Mateo's County Coalition for Safe Schools and Communities, it provides five immediate action responses in any given emergency: Shelter in Place, Drop Cover and Hold On, Secure Campus, Lockdown/Barricade, and Evacuation. 

The Big Five Community Packet 

English (2026-2027)

Spanish (2025-2026) 

During all evacuations, students must leave the classroom immediately without taking any personal belongings. Students should line up behind their teacher and proceed to the Stadium Field, where attendance will be taken. Once all students and staff have been accounted for, the "All Clear" will be announced, and everyone may return to the building.