In some emergency situations, such as flooding or release of hazardous materials, emergency responders may order protective actions for persons who live or work on campus. Typically, these protective actions are to evacuate to a safer area or to shelter in place. It is possible that some emergency scenarios could result in one of these protective actions being ordered for one part of campus and the other protective action for a different area of campus. When such actions are warranted, police, fire, safety or university officials via radio and television stations, public address systems, loudspeakers, door-to-door notifications, or other appropriate means will appropriately advise you.
Area Evacuation for Emergencies
An Area Evacuation is an organized withdrawal from a building or area to reach safe haven. Upon notification to evacuate, quickly:
- Dress appropriately for the weather.
- Take only essentials with you (e.g., eyeglasses, medications, identification and cash/checkbook/credit cards).
- Turn off unnecessary equipment, computers and appliances.
- Close and lock the door as you exit your room or office.
- Follow the directions provided for safe routes of evacuation.
- Listen to radio, if available, to monitor emergency status.
- Do not use your personal vehicle for evacuation unless specifically instructed to do so. If cars are used to evacuate, protect against hazardous materials by keeping windows closed and outside air turned off.
- If you need special assistance, contact your Resident Advisor, Hall Director, Community Assistant, Building Proctor, or other appropriate emergency contact. If these persons are not available, call University Police Dispatch at 845.2345 for assistance.
Sheltering in Place for Emergencies
When emergency conditions do not warrant or allow evacuation, the safest method to protect individuals may be to take shelter inside a campus building or room and await further instructions. If asked to shelter in place quickly:
- Move indoors or remain there. Avoid windows and areas with glass.
- If available, take a radio or television to the room to track emergency status.
- Keep telephone lines free for emergency responders. Do not call 911 for information.
- If hazardous materials are involved,
- Turn off all ventilation systems and close or seal all air inlets and cracks from the outside.
- Select a room(s) that is easy to seal and, if possible, has a water supply and access to restrooms.
- If you smell gas or vapor, hold a wet cloth loosely over your nose and mouth and breath through it in as normal a fashion as possible.
 Emergency Supply Kit
In some emergency situations, it is necessary to have enough supplies readily available to take care of basic needs. This is commonly referred to as an Emergency Supply Kit. Everyone should keep enough supplies in their room to meet basic needs for at least three days. Consider assembling your Emergency Supply Kit in an easy to carry container such as a backpack or duffle bag in case you need to take the supply kit with you during an area evacuation.
Make sure to include:
- A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day)
- A three-day supply of food that won’t spoil
- One change of clothing and footwear
- One blanket or sleeping bag per person
- A basic first aid kit
- Any necessary prescription medications or prescription eyewear
- Emergency tools (include a battery-powered radio and flashlight with extra batteries).
- An extra set of car keys and a credit card, cash or traveler’s checks.
- Sanitation and hygiene supplies
- Important documents for personal identification
Important Links
|
