09:18:00 Emergency Shelter-in-Place

PURPOSE

The purpose for this policy is to provide guidance relative to sheltering-in-place. Sheltering in place means staying inside whatever building or building area you happen to be in at the time of an emergency or, if you are outside, going into an undamaged building nearby and staying there for a period that may last hours to several days depending on the circumstances. A shelter-in-place alert may be given in an emergency where hazardous materials may have been released into the atmosphere. 

POLICY

It is the policy of Walters State Community College that when a shelter-in-place alert is given all students, staff, and or visitors will be directed to and/or will remain in the current building location securing an area that may be utilized as shelter. 

PROCEDURE TO FOLLOW WHEN SHELTERING-IN-PLACE

There are several events where shelter in place will be the safest means of response to an emergency, such as:

1. During a crippling snow storm.
2. If chemical, biological or radiological contaminants are released accidentally or intentionally into the environment.
3. If demonstrations or protests have become violent.

Should sheltering-in-place become necessary, information will be provided via the emergency message system. Sheltering in place provides a degree of protection during extreme situations. When information is received students, staff, and visitors should take the following actions depending on circumstances:

1. If situation involves toxic chemical release:

1. Remain in, or move to, an indoor area, classroom, office or other work area that can provide a barrier.
2. Close all windows and doors and keep them closed, do not exit the area.

   2. Facilities management will turn off all heating and cooling air transfer systems.

   3. Remain in the area and await further instructions.

   4. If the situation involves matters of violence:

1. Follow previous procedure for lockdown.

10/19