The college performs periodic drills in order to ensure the safety of its staff and students in the event of a real emergency. There are two general types of emergencies: emergencies requiring evacuation (ex. fire), and emergencies requiring retreat to a safe haven (ex. tornado).
It is important to take all evacuations/safe haven retreats seriously, even if it is only a drill. Drills give the college an opportunity to assess procedures and make any necessary improvements.