Impact of Active Shooter Drills During COVID-19

While millions believe active shooter drills are necessary, a new study is warning of the emotional impact it could have on children.

New tonight - another concern surfaces - for those sticking to tradition - active shooter drills - one of our districts main lines of defense - in being prepared for the unthinkable.

While millions believe it's necessary - a new study is warning of the emotional impact it could have on your children.

44news reporter valerie lyons continues our coverage tonight - with the concerning details.

A new study on the impact of active shooter drills in schools points to an alarming rise in depression and anxiety for parents, teachers and even children as young as 5 years old - after the exercise.

In indiana -- each school district is required to conduct active shooter drills within the first 90 days of classes.

But with schools back in session -- students and staff will still have to carry out these drills -- while dealing with health and safety practices during covid-19 -- and even without the added stress of classes during a pandemic -- one expert says the drills can have lasting psychological effects.

"so when a child is already grappling with that developmental challenge of really distinguishing fantasy from reality... and they see something that looks very real, or is supposed to be real that's violent, it can really send them into a regression and cause a lot of anxiety and be fairly traumatizing."

An every-town- research study -- conducting in partnership with georgia tech -- found the drills led to a 39 percent increase in depression -- a 42 percent increase in stress and anxiety -- and a 22 percent rise in the concern over death.

But the state says the drills must still go on.

The indiana department of education issued an emergency drill guideline for the current school year -- with covid-19 considerations in mind.

If lockdown drills involve moving to safe shelter locations -- social distancing must still be followed -- if a location cannot allow for social distancing -- teachers and staff must find a more appropriate spot.

And despite mental health concerns -- local law enforcement says the need for the drills -- even during a pandemic -- remains a top priority.

"our kids at schools are very vulnerable and we owe it to them and their parents to try and protect the children in our schools each and every day."

No word yet from local school districts on how they plan to carry out these drills under current covid-19 practices -- but 44news will continue to reach out for those answers.

Valerie lyons