During the Emergency

Emergencies can occur without warning and may require immediate action. Knowing what to do in the moment can help protect your and the safety of others. Always remain aware of your surroundings and be prepared to take action based on the situation. 

Immediate Actions

During any emergency: 

  • Stay calm and act quickly
  • If you witness the incident or come into contact with a situation, please contact 911 or campus dispatch once you are safe to do so. Do not assume someone else has contacted authorities. 
  • Follow instructions from university officials and emergency responders. 
  • Monitor official communication channels, including campus alerts.
  • Assist others if you are able to and only when it is safe for you to do so. 

 

Emergency Alerts

In certain instances or emergencies, a campuswide alert will be sent out to the community to provide warning and situational awareness of the active hazard occurring on campus. Please take appropriate actions and follow instructions on what to do if they are provided. Below is some specific guidance on what to do when you receive an alert. 

Protective Actions

Evacuate

If directed to evacuate or clear the area: 

  • Leave the area immediately using the nearest safe exit
  • Do not use elevators unless directed. (They may be out of service due to utility disruption.) 
  • Proceed away from the immediate area and make your way to a designated assembly area if one is known.

 

Shelter- In Place

If instructed to shelter-in-place: 

  • Move indoors to a secure location
  • Close and secure doors and windows 
  • Remain inside until an "all clear" is given or follow direction of first responders if they come and get you out of your location. 

Seek Shelter (Severe Weather) 

  • Move to the lowest level of the building or to a designated shelter area if your building has one.
  • Stay in a interior room away from windows. 
  • Protect your head and body 
  • If able check and monitor the weather while you are sheltering, remain in place until conditions are safe. There may not be an all-clear message sent out. 

Active Threat Response.

These are situations that may involve potential violence. Remember Run, Hide, Fight.

Run

 Your first priority should be to get away from the threat if it is safe to do so.

  • Leave the area immediately using the safest available route possible. 
  • Encourage others to leave with you, but don't delay if they are unwilling.
  • Keep your hands visible. 
  • Move to a safe location and call emergency services when you are able. 

Hide 

If you cannot safely evacuate or run, find a place to hide and secure yourself. 

  • Go to a room that can be locked or barricaded 
  • Lock and block doors if possible. 
  • Turn off lights and remain quiet. 
  • Silence phones and other devices 
  • Stay out of sight and away from doors or windows. 

Fight

As a last resort, and only if your life is in immediate danger, be prepared to protect yourself.

  • Commit to your actions with the goal of stopping the threat.
  • Use available objects to defend yourself if necessary.

When Law Enforcement Arrives.

  • Remain calm and follow instructions. 
  • Keep your hands visible at all times.
  • Avoid sudden movements.
  • Provide information when it is safe to do so.