We have had a few calls today from parents who had heard on the radio that all schools should be closed following an earthquake in excess of a 5. This is not the case.
We all know that shakes, even of the same magnitude, are not all created equal. A shake of 5.3 outside Halswell will not affect the school in the same way as a 5.3 might if it was centred in Brighton. What we have to do is have a look at the buildings, consider whether we have lost power and services, and look at the effects on children (particularly if it was during the school day) and then make a decision about closing. If we have concerns about the safety of the buildings then we have to keep them closed until they are checked by an engineer.
Please be reassured that if we had any doubts or concerns about safety at all, then we would not allow children or staff to return to school until our school had been completely checked by a qualified expert.
Ngā mihi ki a koutou
John
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