Evacuation

An Evacuation is a total building or partial building evacuation due to conditions making it no longer safe to remain inside a building or a specific area in a building. All occupants must leave a building if an evacuation is ordered or a fire alarm is sounded. An evacuation requires occupants to move out and away from a building or out and away from a specific area inside a building.

Initiation of Evacuation Procedure

When the Emergency Coordinator or designee determines the need to evacuate a given building or buildings for the safety of the campus community, notification that an “Evacuation” has been ordered will be communicated through the Emergency Notification System and by other appropriate means.

Evacuation Procedure

Once the notice to “Evacuate” has been issued take the following action:

• • Activate the fire alarm.
  • Immediately obey evacuation alarms and orders. Tell others to evacuate.
  • Classes in session must evacuate. No one may remain inside a building when an evacuation is in progress.
  • If involved with hazardous research or doing a dangerous procedure, immediately shut down operations that could create additional hazards if left unattended. Evacuate as soon as possible.
  • When you evacuate, take keys, coat, purse and any other critical personal items with you to the Emergency Assembly Area (EAA).
  • Close doors as rooms are vacated.
  • Assist those who need help, but do not put yourself at risk attempting to rescue trapped or injured victims. Note the location of trapped and injured victims and notify emergency responders.
  • Walk calmly but quickly to the nearest emergency exit.
  • Use stairways only. Do not use elevators.
  • Keep to the right side of corridors and stairwells as you exit.
  • Exit the building and proceed directly to your building’s designated Emergency Assembly Area (EAA). Stay away from the immediate area near the building you evacuated. Do not congregate at the entrance of the building.
  • Remain in the Emergency Assembly Area (EAA) until roll is taken and instructions are given. Relocate to alternate sheltering site(s) if necessary due to weather or the amount of time the building must remain vacant.
  • Do not reenter the building until authorized Fire, Police or Security Department personnel give the “All Clear” instruction.

 

EVACUATION GUIDELINES OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

• • Check on people with special needs during evacuation. A “buddy system” where people with disabilities arrange for volunteers (co-employees/student) to alert and assist them in an emergency is recommended.
  • Only attempt an evacuation if you have had emergency assistance training or the person is in immediate danger and cannot wait for emergency services personnel.
  • Always ask someone with a disability how you can help before attempting any emergency evacuation assistance. Ask how he or she can best be assisted or moved, and whether there are any special considerations or items that need to come with the person.
  • Students and employees who are mobility impaired should let the designated building representative know of the location of their usual work area and special needs.

 

Additionally, students and employees with disabilities are encouraged to discuss issues of fire safety and other emergency situations with the Director of Campus Safety and Compliance (or designee). Students are encouraged to inform Faculty and other University personnel of issues specific to their disability that may be necessary to know in the event of an emergency. If an emergency evacuation is necessary, here are some helpful guidelines:

Mobility Impairments

• • Ambulatory — Persons with limited mobility who are able to walk independently, either with or without the use of crutches or a cane, may be able to negotiate stairs with minor assistance in an emergency situation. Even some persons who customarily use a wheelchair or scooter for long distance travel may be able to walk independently in an emergency situation. If individuals are able to walk up or down stairs, it is advisable that they wait until the heavy traffic has cleared before attempting to evacuate if possible. Someone should walk beside the person to provide assistance in exiting the building, if needed.
  • Non-Ambulatory — In keeping with current philosophy and preference to “stay in place,” the most recent advice from fire and campus safety experts is that wheelchair users should exit the building on their own if they are able to do so. If they encounter stairs or otherwise cannot exit independently, wheelchair users should move to, and remain at, a designated area of rescue assistance until emergency rescue personnel arrive. A specific person should be designated to inform emergency personnel of the individual’s exact location. If rescue is deemed necessary, qualified personnel should assist in the evacuation. Please be aware that the person with the disability is the best authority on how to be moved.

 

Visual Impairments

Most people with vision loss will be familiar with their immediate surroundings. In the event of an emergency, tell the person the nature of the emergency and offer to guide him or her to the nearest emergency exit. Have the person take your elbow as you offer escort out of the building. As you walk, tell the individual where you are and advise of any obstacles (stairs, doors, etc.). When you reach safety, orient the person to their surroundings and ask if any further assistance is needed.

Hearing Impairments

If a building is not equipped with visual fire alarms, some individuals may not hear audio emergency alarms and will need to be alerted to the situation by gestures or by turning the light switch on and off. Emergency instructions can be given by verbalizing, mouthing, or by a short, explicit note. Example: “Fire alarms—go out south doors—now!” If you have questions or concerns about evacuation strategies, please contact the Director of Campus Safety and Compliance (or designee).