A Lockdown is the temporary sheltering technique, e.g. 30 minutes to several hours, utilized to limit The University’s occupants’ exposure in an emergency situation. This course of action may need to be taken during a tornado, earthquake, the release of hazardous materials in the outside air, a civil disturbance or an “Active Shooter” or similar incident. When alerted, occupants of the building will lock all doors and windows, not allowing entry or exit to anyone until the all clear has been sounded. This procedure converts any building into a large “Safe Room.” In the event a “Lockdown” is ordered for a weather related emergency, the doors to the building are not to be locked unless that is the condition they are in when a weather related “Lockdown” is ordered.
Initiation of Lockdown Procedure
When the Emergency Coordinator or designee determines the need to secure a building or buildings to protect the campus community and to prevent an escalation of the emergency, the order to “Lockdown” specific areas or the entire campus will be given.
Notification that a “Lockdown” has been ordered will be communicated through the Emergency Notification System and by other appropriate means.
Lockdown Procedure
Once the notice to “Lockdown” has been issued take the following action:
- Remain calm.
- Staff is required to secure the entrance(s) to the building, if it is safe to do so. Place a sign on the door indicating Lockdown is in effect. Close all windows.
- If “Lockdown” is initiated for a weather related emergency do not secure the entrance(s) to the building.
- Staff is to advise occupants that the building is in Lockdown and for everyone to take shelter and stay away from doors and windows.
- Anyone who encounters a physically disabled individual should assist them if possible.
- Remain indoors, e.g. your office or classroom. When in “Lockdown” you are not to leave the building unless an all clear has been sounded.
- If possible, take refuge in a room that can be locked. If unable to lock the door secure it by any means possible. The room should also provide limited visibility to anyone that is outside of it.
- Occupants should be seated below window level, toward the middle of a room away from windows and doors. Turn off all lights.
- Remain silent. Turn off all radios or other devices that emit sound. Silence cell phones.
- If gunshots are heard lay on the floor, use heavy objects such as tables or filing cabinets for shelter. Hide under a desk, in a closet or in the corner.
- If safe to do so, turn off gas and electric appliances, e.g., heater, fan, coffee maker, gas valves, lights and locally controlled ventilation systems, e.g. air conditioner.
- Do not shelter in open areas such as hallways or corridors. Go to the nearest classroom, lecture hall or auditorium that can be locked.
- After getting to a safe location and without jeopardizing your safety, try and obtain additional clarifying information by all possible means (e.g. Franciscan Homepage, TV, radio, email, etc.). Report any suspicious activity if you can do so without jeopardizing your safety. Call 911 if possible.
- If outdoors seek nearby shelter, e.g. large trees, walls, mail boxes, and wait for additional instructions.
- If you are in Lockdown due to a tornado warning proceed to the basement or lowest floor of the building. Position yourself in the safest portion of the area away from glass. Be prepared to kneel facing a wall and cover your head.
- Do not unlock doors or attempt to leave until authorized Fire, Police or Security Department personnel give the “All Clear” instruction. The “All Clear” will also be communicated through the Emergency Notification System.
