French Educational Establishments Awarded the “Shield of Resilience” for Risk Prevention Efforts

The “Shield of Resilience” is a distinction which promotes approaches to preventing major risks in public and private educational establishments. Supported by the Ministry of Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion, this initiative is led by the French Institute of Major Risks and Environmental Protection Trainers (IFFO-RME). This diploma rewards establishments which prepare their students for natural and technological risks by establishing a Special Safety Plan (PPMS).

This Plan makes it possible to anticipate the event and plan for major risks of natural origin (cyclone, flood, marine submersion, earthquake, landslide, etc.) or technological (toxic cloud, explosion, radioactivity, etc.). Particular emergency situations are included in the program, such as intrusion by people from outside the establishment or an attack. To ensure the safety of students and staff while waiting for help to arrive, it takes inventory of local risks and threats and responds to each situation. An annual exercise allows the system to be tested and improved.

Thirteen private educational establishments, under contract from the department, have set up a nuclear PPMS due to the proximity of the Golfech nuclear power plant. They have initiated a dual approach of education and prevention, mobilizing the educational community, parents, communities and of course the children.

The “Shield of Resilience” was given to them in the diocesan management premises of the department in the presence of the heads of establishments and those involved in this prevention who testified and shared their experiences. Sylvette Pierron, national president of the French Institute of Major Risks and Environmental Protection Trainers, opened the ceremony with François Reicher, diocesan director.