Gavilan Emergency Response Plan
The Gavilan Joint Community College District Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is a guide to conduct an all-hazard response. It is designed to be flexible and adaptable in response to emergencies on campus. The plan describes specific authorities and best practices for managing emergencies ranging from catastrophic natural disasters, to fires, to active shooter incidents.
The ERP defines the scope of preparedness activity necessary to make it an effective operational guide. In order to become familiar with their responsibilities and acquire the skills necessary to perform required tasks, emergency response personnel must attend training sessions regularly. In addition, exercises provide a means to validate plans, checklists, procedures and evaluate the skills of emergency response personnel.
An effective emergency response hinges upon well-trained leaders, motivated and dedicated staff and responders who have invested in emergency preparedness knowledge, tactics and training.
Section Five -- What to TELL the Public
The following is a summary of the information and actions provided to faculty, staff, and students on the actions you want them to take or information you want them to know.
Active Shooter/Armed Intruder |
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Bomb Threat |
Campus Closure/Reduced or Modified Operation |
Civil Disturbance |
Criminal Emergency/Violent Behavior |
Cyber Security Incident |
Earthquake |
Excessive Heat |
Explosion |
Fire |
Flood |
Hazardous Material Release |
Large Fire |
Mass Psychological Event |
Disease Outbreak |
Severe Weather |
Suicide/Sudden Death |
Utility Failure |
Dam Failure |
Active Shooter/Armed Intruder
An armed intruder is a person who is actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people with a weapon. You should know the following:
- Victims are selected at random.
- The event is unpredictable and evolves quickly.
- You may not get an "official" notice to act.
- Knowing what to do can save lives.
Run
- Have an escape route and plan in mind.
- Do not hesitate to leave your belongings behind.
- Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
- Help others escape, if possible.
- Do not attempt to move the wounded.
- Prevent others from entering an area where the intruder may be.
- Call 911 when you are safe.
Hide
- Keep the attacker away from you.
- Hide in an area out of the intruder's view.
- Lock the door or block entry to your hiding place.
- Silence your cell phone (including vibrate mode) and remain quiet.
Fight
- You have a right to defend yourself.
- Incapacitate the intruder.
- Do not fight fair.
- Act with as much physical aggression as possible.
- Improvise weapons or throw items at the intruder.
- Commit to your actions. Your life depends on it.
- If you get the weapon away from the shooter, keep the weapon out of everyone's reach.
- Do not hold the weapon. Responding officers might think you are the shooter.
- Decide to survive!
What happens when the police arrive...
The first officers to arrive on the scene will not stop to help the injured.
- Remain calm and follow instructions.
- Drop items in your hands.
- Raise hands and spread fingers apart.
- Keep your hands visible at all times.
- Avoid quick movements toward officers, such as holding on to them for safety.
- Avoid pointing, screaming, or yelling.
- Do not ask questions when evacuating.
Expect rescue teams to follow who will treat and remove the injured.
Once you have reached a safe location, law enforcement will likely hold you in that area until the situation is under control and all witnesses have been identified and questioned.
Do not leave the area until law enforcement authorities have instructed you to do so.
Lockdown
A lockdown is the "locking or blocking" of a door as an immediate action in response to an armed intruder incident or life-threatening event. Such an incident can occur anytime, anywhere, to anyone, and it will be unlike anything you have ever experienced. Armed intruder incidents happen rapidly, so you may or may not get an "official" lockdown warning. You need to take immediate action; do not wait for official notice.
Call Out
Call 911 if it is safe to do so. Do not assume someone else has called 911. Tell the 911 dispatcher where you are and what is going on. Stay on the phone and answer the dispatcher's questions.
Stay Inside
- Do not leave the building or room unless a dangerous situation arises.
- Immediately cease all activity (i.e., teaching, group work, meetings, etc.).
- Lock or barricade all doors where possible. Card access doors will be locked during a lockdown but can be opened from the inside.
- If possible, cover any windows or openings with a direct line of sight to the interior.
- Close the blinds or pull the shades down. Turn off the lights and try to give the impression that the room is empty.
- Remain calm. Encourage others to remain calm.
- Silence your cell phone and be as quiet as possible.
- DO NOT respond to anyone at the door until a college official or first responder issues an "All Clear" alert or if you are sure it is safe to do so (e.g., if law enforcement is at the door).
- If law enforcement directs you to leave your secure area, assist others in moving as quietly and quickly as possible.
- Be aware of alternate exits if it becomes necessary to flee.
- Individuals should not attempt to leave the building until law enforcement tells them to do so.
- Do not leave the building until receiving the "All Clear" or other instructions from a college official or first responder.
Keep Out
If the door cannot be locked, then block the door with whatever you can.
Spread Out
DO NOT huddle together. Remain calm and stay focused on survival.
Take Out
If the intruder enters your area, assume their intentions are lethal. Fight or do whatever it takes to incapacitate the intruder. Your life depends on it.
Plan
If the intruder enters your area, make a quick plan for attacking the intruder.
Shelter-In-Place:
This is a precautionary measure to keep you safe while remaining indoors. This may be in response to an environmental danger, hazardous material release or a security threat. The purpose is to convert the building into a locked, secured, and safe environment to shelter in until the problem or issue is resolved.
If a Shelter-In-Place is ordered:
- If outside, seek shelter in the nearest building.
- If inside a building, close and, if possible, lock all doors and windows. Close blinds or window coverings.
- Allow access to others seeking shelter. Remember that shelter-in-place means there are dangerous conditions outside, and inside will be a safer area until the condition improves.
- Leave your cell phone on, but put your cell phone in silent mode.
- Continue teaching or working and wait for official information on what to do.
- Report any emergency or unusual conditions to the campus police/security.
- Do not leave the building until receiving the "All Clear" or other instructions from a college official or first responder.
If hazardous materials are involved:
- Turn off all ventilation systems and close all inlets from the outside.
- Select a room(s) that is easy to seal and, if possible, has a water supply and access to restrooms.
Bomb Threat/Suspicious Package/Mail/Object
CALLING FOR ASSISTANCE
Call 911
- DO NOT call while near a suspicious package or object.
- Give your name, location, and description of the package or object.
- DO NOT disconnect from the dispatcher until told to do so by the dispatcher.
- DO NOT return to an evacuated building or area until told to do so by an emergency responder/campus official.
BOMB THREAT
Bomb threats usually occur by telephone. If you receive a bomb threat, remain calm and attempt to obtain as much information as possible from the caller. Keep the caller on the phone and ask the following:
- When is the bomb going to explode?
- Where is the bomb located?
- What kind of bomb is it?
- What does it look like?
- Why did you place the bomb?
- What is your name?
- Note the time the call was received.
- Note the perceived sex, age, and emotional state of the caller.
- Note any background noises.
- Note caller ID phone number.
Complete the bomb threat checklist as soon as possible after receiving the threat. Save your notes for responders.
If you cannot use the checklist, immediately write down the following information after the call:
- Time of call
- Perceived age and gender of the caller
- Speech pattern, accent, or other traits
- Emotional state
- Background noise
SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE/MAIL
Letters or parcels that ought to trigger suspicion may have the following characteristics:
- Packages wrapped in string or twine
- No postage, non-canceled postage, or excessive postage
- Leaks, stains, strange odors, protruding wires, string, electrical tape, etc.
- Nonsensical or no return address
- Handwritten addresses or labels from companies (check to see if the company exists and if they sent you a package or letter)
- Have any powdery substance on the outside
- Are unexpected or from someone unfamiliar to you
- Are addressed to someone no longer with your organization or are otherwise outdated
- Are of unusual weight, given their size, or are lopsided or oddly shaped
- Have an unusual amount of tape
- Handwritten notes, such as:
- "To Be Opened in Private"
- "Confidential"
- "Prize Enclosed"
If you receive a suspicious package/mail:
- DO NOT handle the package.
- Secure and leave the area.
- Document the time and manner in which the package/mail arrived.
- DO NOT turn on or off any radios, cell phones, etc., near the package.
- DO NOT make cell phone calls or transmit using a radio near the package, as this may activate a bomb.
- DO NOT activate fire alarms.
- DO NOT return to an evacuated building until told to do so by an emergency responder/campus official.
SUSPICIOUS OBJECT
If you observe a suspicious object or potential bomb:
- Do not attempt to investigate or handle a suspicious object on your own, as this could put yourself and others at risk.
- Warn others in the area to stay away from the object until emergency responders arrive on the scene.
- If the object is found outside, move at least 300 feet away.
- If the object is found inside, leave the room, office, or building.
- DO NOT open drawers or cabinets.
- DO NOT turn lights off or on in the area you are in.
- DO NOT activate fire alarms.
Campus Closure/Reduced/Mod Operations
Power Outage -- Daytime
Power outages can happen for a variety of reasons, such as weather, rolling power outages, accidents, etc. In some instances, the college may receive a warning of a rolling blackout; it is also possible that the college will receive no warning of a power outage, which means you need to be prepared to have the power go out at any time.
If a power outage occurs during daylight, the college will remain open. The phone and emergency systems will continue to operate, and most rooms on campus will have enough ambient light to continue activities.
Some classrooms and areas of the campus may be closed because they will be too dark. Lab areas that require special equipment may also be closed.
The decision to continue a class or keep an office open will depend on whether you have enough light in your area. If you teach in a room with no light, you should contact the Office, Instruction, or Academic Affairs for directions. If you are going to close your office, you need to get approval from your supervisor.
Power Outage -- Nighttime
If the power outage occurs after it is dark, classes may be excused after waiting approximately 15 minutes. When the lights go out, please remain calm, use whatever light sources you have, and wait in your room or area for the lights to come back on. If the lights do not come back on after 15 minutes, you should have students or staff make their way to their cars and leave the campus. Please remind people to:
- Use caution and walk to their cars in groups.
- Look out for other people walking to their cars when driving through and out of the parking lots.
- Treat any intersection without a working signal light as a 4-way stop.
Civil Disturbance
If a civil disturbance happens on campus, it is essential to prioritize your safety and the safety of others. Here are some general guidelines you can follow:
- Stay calm, avoid panicking, and focus on finding a safe place.
- Do not engage in confrontations with the demonstrators.
- If you are outside, move away from the disturbance and do not engage with those causing the disturbance.
- If you are in a building, lock the doors and windows and do not engage with those causing the disturbance.
- Stay informed about the situation by monitoring the campus emergency information system(s) and social media updates but be cautious about believing rumors.
- If you feel like you are in danger or need help, call the campus police/security for assistance.
- Follow the instructions of campus authorities and stay vigilant.
It is important to remember that every situation is unique, and there may be additional instructions or precautions that you need to follow based on the specific circumstances.
Criminal Emergency/Violent Behavior
You can assist in making the campus safe by being alert to suspicious situations and reporting them to the campus police/security or by calling 9-1-1. Do not take any unnecessary chances.
Several steps can be taken to help avoid crime on campus:
- Be aware of your surroundings. When you are walking around campus, make sure to pay attention to your surroundings. Stay alert and be mindful of any potential danger or suspicious activity.
- Travel in groups: Travel with a group rather than alone whenever possible. This can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of a crime.
- Stay on well-lit paths: Avoid taking shortcuts through poorly lit areas or places where you are less visible. Stick to well-lit paths and avoid secluded areas.
- Use campus security services: Many college campuses have security services that can escort you to and from the campus if you feel unsafe.
- Lock your doors and windows: To prevent unwanted entry, lock your dorm room or apartment doors and windows.
- Keep your valuables secure: Don't leave your valuable items unattended and avoid carrying large sums of cash or expensive items.
- Report any suspicious activity: If you see anything suspicious, report it to campus security or local law enforcement.
- Attend safety training or self-defense classes: Many college campuses offer safety training or self-defense classes to help you prepare for potential danger.
If you are the victim or are involved in any on-campus violation of the law, such as assault, robbery, theft, unwanted sexual behavior, etc., call the campus police/security as soon as it is safe to do so and supply them with the following information:
- Nature of the incident
- Campus location of the incident
- Description of person(s) involved
- Description of property involved
- Your name
- Your current location
- Your contact telephone number
- Any injuries, including how many and the extent of injury (if known)
If you witness an on-campus crime, as soon as it is safe to do so, call the campus police/security or 9-1-1.
Cyber Security Incident
General information before an incident:
In today's digitally-driven world, you are the gatekeeper of your data. You must practice good cyber hygiene, secure devices properly, identify phishing attempts, and collaborate closely with the college's IT security teams to maintain layered protections across our interconnected networks.
- Use strong, unique passwords - Don't use the same password across multiple sites or make passwords that are easy to guess. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password manager.
- Enable two-factor authentication - Add an extra layer of security to important accounts by requiring both your password and a one-time code generated by an authenticator app or sent via text.
- Be wary of phishing attempts - Don't click links or attachments in unexpected emails. Phishing attacks try to trick you into entering your login credentials on fake sites. Verify the sender and hover over links to check the URLs before clicking.
- Using public, unsecured networks makes it easier for hackers to steal your data. Use a VPN when on public WiFi.
- Keep software up-to-date - Applying the latest security patches is important to fix known vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. Enable automatic updates when possible.
- Back up your data - Whether due to malware, device failure, or loss, you don't want to lose important documents and files. Routinely backup your data either to an external drive or cloud storage.
- Be judicious in sharing personal information - Limit sharing details online that could aid identity theft, financial fraud, or a stalker.
Disease Outbreak
As a college student during a novel disease outbreak, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and others. Here are some general safety guidelines to follow:
- Stay informed: Stay updated on the latest information from the college and the health authorities regarding the disease outbreak.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Wear a mask: Follow the mask-wearing guidelines set by health authorities. Wear and handle masks properly, covering your nose and mouth completely.
- Maintain physical distance: Practice distancing by keeping at least 6 feet (2 meters) from others, especially in a crowded area. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and if you feel unwell, stay home.
- Avoid large gatherings: Minimize your participation in large gatherings or events where maintaining physical distance may be challenging. This includes parties, concerts, and crowded social events. Instead, consider virtual alternatives or smaller gatherings with a limited number of people.
- Follow college guidelines: Familiarize yourself with your college's specific guidelines and protocols related to disease outbreaks. Stay updated on any changes or recommendations made by your institution and comply with their safety measures to protect yourself and the campus community.
- Take care of your mental health: Outbreaks can be stressful, so taking care of your mental well-being is essential. Stay connected with friends and family, engage in activities you enjoy, exercise regularly, and seek support from counseling or mental health services provided by your college if needed.
- Travel responsibly: If you need to travel, be cautious and follow travel advisories and restrictions issued by health authorities. Avoid non-essential travel to areas with high infection rates or outbreaks.
- Seek medical assistance: If you experience symptoms associated with the disease outbreak, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, contact your college's health services or local healthcare provider immediately. Follow their instructions for testing and treatment.
Remember, the situation can evolve rapidly during a disease outbreak, so staying informed and adapting to the guidelines provided by health authorities and your college is crucial.
Earthquake
DURING AN EARTHQUAKE
- If indoors, drop, take cover under a table, along the base of interior walls, and hold on. If possible, stay away from glass windows, shelves, and heavy equipment.
- If outdoors, move quickly away from buildings, utility poles, and other structures. Always avoid downed power or utility lines because they may be energized.
- If in a vehicle, stop in the safest place available, preferably in an open area away from power lines and trees. Stop as quickly and safely as possible, but stay in the vehicle until the shaking stops.
AFTER THE SHAKING STOPS
- Remember to stay calm and stay where you are until the shaking stops and it is safe to move.
- Evaluate your situation and, if necessary, call for emergency help (call 9-1-1).
- Protect yourself at all times and be prepared for aftershocks.
- Evacuate the building by quickly making your way to the nearest marked exit.
- Once outside, move to a clear area at least 100 feet away from the building.
- Keep streets and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel.
- Be alert for hazards such as building damage, gas leaks, fires, broken utility lines, spilled chemicals, and other potentially harmful materials.
- If you are near the coast and feel an earthquake lasting more than 20 seconds, move to higher ground immediately, as it may trigger a tsunami.
Excessive Heat Event
Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Be aware of weather alerts: Monitor local weather reports and sign up for text or email alerts from the college or local emergency management.
- Drink plenty of water frequently throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
- Adjust your schedule to limit outdoor exposures and activities during mid-day and afternoon.
- Take regular cooling-off breaks in shaded areas or spend time in air-conditioned buildings or cooling centers.
- Be alert to the signs of heat illness - heat exhaustion and heat stroke, such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, and rapid breathing. Seek medical help immediately if you or someone else has these symptoms.
- Immediately call 9-1-1 if the person starts acting abnormal, has slurred speech, has seizures, faints and sweats excessively, or has hot, dry skin.
- Heat can exacerbate other medical conditions. Monitor your health closely and visit the student health center with any concerns.
- If traveling on foot across campus, utilize shaded routes as much as possible. Consider using campus shuttles when available.
- Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing that covers exposed skin. Wide-brim hats can also help keep the sun off your body.
- Apply broad-spectrum, waterproof sunscreen when spending any time outdoors. Reapply as directed.
- Report any problems with air conditioning, lack of accessible drinking water, or other cooling resource issues to the facilities department.
- Keep your phone charged and with you at all times, and make sure you have the phone numbers of your family, friends, and emergency contacts saved in your phone.
By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself and stay safe during severe weather events at college.
Explosion
- Immediately take cover under tables, desks, or other objects that give protection in case of a secondary explosion.
- After the effects of the explosion have subsided, stay calm and call 9-1-1. Give your name and the location of the explosion. Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to do so.
- Evacuate the immediate area of the explosion by quickly walking to the nearest exit, alerting people as you go.
- Be aware of structural damage. Stay away from glass doors and windows.
- Do not touch or move suspicious objects or turn light switches on or off.
- Assist others, especially the injured and disabled, to evacuate the building. If you cannot assist an injured or trapped person, let first responders know the person's location.
- Once outside, move to a clear area at least 300 feet away or to the closest parking lot from the affected building.
- Keep the walkways clear for emergency vehicles.
- Do not return to a building until told to do so.
- Individuals who use wheelchairs or have mobility issues should prepare for an emergency ahead of time by instructing coworkers or fellow students on how to assist in an emergency.
Fire
IN A FIRE, ALWAYS EVACUATE A BUILDING IF THE ALARM IS SOUNDING.
Familiarize yourself with the fire safety plan and the evacuation routes.
Make sure you know the location of the nearest fire alarm and extinguisher to your classroom or office.
Upon discovering a fire, close the door to the room where the fire is located and immediately sound the building fire alarm.
If there is a fire, stay calm and call 9-1-1. Give your name and the location of the fire. Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to do so.
If the fire is small and it is safe to do so, you may attempt to fight it with a fire extinguisher.
- Ensure that you have an escape route.
- Stand 6 to 8 feet from the fire.
- Use the P.A.S.S. method:
- Pull the safety pin to unlock the lever for discharge.
- Aim the extinguisher nozzle or hose at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the lever below the handle (or press the button) to discharge the extinguishing agent.
- Sweep the nozzle side to side across the base of the fire, completely discharging the extinguisher to ensure the fire is out.
If the fire is large, very smoky, or spreading rapidly, sound the fire alarm and leave the building immediately.
Inform others in the building who may not have responded to the alarm to leave immediately.
The alarm may not sound continuously. If the alarm stops, continue to evacuate the building and warn others who may attempt to enter the building.
Do not block fire exits, and ensure they are easily accessible. In the event of a fire, blocked exits can be deadly.
If smoke is in the air, stay low to the ground. Smoke rises, and the air near the floor will be less toxic and easier to breathe.
Individuals who use wheelchairs or have mobility issues should prepare for an emergency ahead of time by instructing coworkers or fellow students on how to assist in an emergency.
Flood/Flash Flooding
If flooding occurs, get to higher ground immediately.
Find safe shelter right away.
Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
Do not drive through flooded areas. Turn Around, Do not Drown!
Six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
Monitor local emergency information sources.
Hazardous Material
Upon discovering a hazardous material spill, accident, or incident, stay calm and move away from the affected area.
If there is any possible danger, evacuate your area immediately.
If you are contaminated with a material, get medical assistance immediately and avoid contact with others.
If toxic materials come in contact with your skin, immediately flush the affected area with clear water for at least 15 minutes. Use chemical showers if available.
- Call 9-1-1. Give your name and provide:
- The location of the incident
- The name and quantity of the released material (if known)
- The appearance of the released material -- solid, liquid, odor, color, etc.
- The time of release
- Information regarding the area or size of the contamination
- Provide information regarding hazards to humans or the environment inside or outside the room or building
- Give responders information about other materials involved or stored in the affected area (if known)
- Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to do so.
- Individuals who use wheelchairs or have mobility issues should prepare for an emergency by instructing coworkers or fellow students on how to assist them in an emergency.
Do not return to the building or area until told to do so by first responders.
Psychological Crisis
Experiencing a traumatic event can be incredibly difficult and overwhelming. Everyone's response to trauma is unique and individual, but some common reactions include shock, disbelief, fear, anxiety, anger, sadness, and numbness.
In the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event, it's important to prioritize your safety and seek necessary assistance and support.
It's common to experience a range of emotions and physical sensations after a traumatic event. Giving yourself time to process and heal is essential.
Self-care is crucial during this time. This might include getting enough rest, eating well, and engaging in physical activity. It's also important to be patient with yourself and to avoid putting pressure on yourself to feel a certain way or to "move on" too quickly.
If you find that your symptoms persist or interfere with your daily life, it may be helpful to seek professional help. Remember, healing is a process, and there is no "right" way to go through it.
Cultivate awareness and acceptance of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing exercises, can help you stay present in the moment and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Reach out to friends and loved ones for support and connection. Social support is a key factor in maintaining emotional resilience.
Severe Weather
Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Be aware of weather alerts: Monitor local weather reports and sign up for text or email alerts from the college or local emergency management.
- Know where to take shelter: Familiarize yourself with the designated severe weather shelters on campus and know the quickest route.
- Have an emergency kit: Pack a small emergency kit with essential items like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
- Avoid driving during severe weather: Stay inside during extreme weather events and avoid driving or walking through flooded areas.
- Stay connected: Keep your phone charged and with you at all times, and make sure you have the phone numbers of your family, friends, and emergency contacts saved in your phone.
- Follow instructions from authorities: In the event of a severe weather warning, follow instructions from campus security, emergency management personnel, or local authorities.
By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself and stay safe during severe weather events on campus.
Sudden Death/Suicide
Experiencing death can be difficult and overwhelming. Everyone's response is unique and individual, but some common reactions include shock, disbelief, fear, anxiety, anger, sadness, and numbness.
It's important to prioritize your safety and seek necessary assistance and support.
It's common to experience a range of emotions and physical sensations after death, and giving yourself time to process and heal is important.
Self-care is crucial during this time. This might include getting enough rest, eating well, and engaging in physical activity. It's also important to be patient with yourself and to avoid putting pressure on yourself to feel a certain way or to "move on" too quickly.
If you find that your symptoms persist or interfere with your daily life, it may be helpful to seek professional help. Remember, healing is a process, and there is no "right" way to go through it.
Cultivate awareness and acceptance of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing exercises, can help you stay present in the moment and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Reach out to friends and loved ones for support and connection. Social support is a key factor in maintaining emotional resilience.
Utility Failure
In the event of a utility failure, such as a power outage, gas leak, or water supply interruption, there are several steps you can take to ensure your safety and minimize disruption.
- Stay Calm and Assess the Situation: Remain calm and take a moment to assess the extent and nature of the utility failure. Determine if it affects only your immediate area or is a widespread issue.
- Report the Utility Failure: Contact the campus police/security to inform them of the situation.
- Check for Safety Hazards: Be cautious and check for any safety hazards caused by the utility failure. Look for exposed wires, gas leaks, or other potential dangers. If you detect any immediate threats to your safety, evacuate the area and inform others to do the same.
- Stay Informed: Stay connected to the campus emergency alert systems, local news, or social media. Check for instructions, announcements, and guidance on what to do or estimated timelines for restoring services.
- Help Others: Check on your colleagues, particularly those who may require assistance during a utility failure. Offer support and help where needed, especially to individuals with special needs or limited mobility.
Dam Failure
- Immediately move the higher ground of the upper floors of buildings.
- Find safe shelter right away.
- Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
- Do not drive through flooded areas. Turn Around, Do not Drown!
- Six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
- Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
- Monitor local emergency information sources.