One important aspect of school safety is how closely the written policies, procedures and plans reflect what is actually taking place in schools.  For example, a school safety incident is more likely to occur if good procedures are not followed.  This means that students, staff or visitors are more likely to be hurt.  In addition, these types of gaps can then expose school officials to increased exposure to school safety litigation and criticism from the media as well as a loss of public confidence. 

Having viable, well communicated and properly applied and enforced safety, security and emergency preparedness policies, plans and procedures can make school safer for all.