Emergency Response Plan

  Table of Contents
   
  Purpose and Definition
   
  Declaration of Emergency
   
  Campus Emergency Resource Team
   
  Reporting Emergencies
   
  Response Protocol Based on
Type of Emergency
   
  Using University Facilities During
an Emergency
   

PREFACE

This University Emergency Response Plan has been designed for Neumann University administrators, faculty and staff as a guide to proper protocols to be followed by University personnel in campus emergency situations. While this manual does not cover every possible situation, it does supply the basic administrative guidelines necessary to cope with most campus emergencies.

The Neumann University policies and procedures herein are to be followed by all University personnel whose responsibilities and authority cover the operational procedures found in the Manual. Campus emergency operations will be conducted within the framework of these University guidelines.

All requests for procedural changes, suggestions, or recommendations should be submitted in writing to Campus Safety. All changes recommended by the Director of Campus Safety will be submitted in writing to the Vice President for Human Resources & Risk Management for review and recommendation to Executive Council.

PURPOSE

The emergency procedures outlined in this document are intended to provide for the protection of lives and property through effective use of Neumann University campus and community resources. Whenever an emergency affecting the campus reaches proportions that cannot be handled by routine measures the President, or designee appointed by the president, will declare a state of emergency, and the University Emergency Response Plan will be implemented.

There are many types of emergencies that may result in the implementation of this plan. These include natural and humankind events. Specific examples are described below. Since an emergency often occurs suddenly and without warning, these procedures are designed to be flexible in order to accommodate response contingencies of varying magnitude.

For the purpose of this Plan and to assist University personnel in determining the appropriate response, the categories of emergencies are defined as follows:

MINOR EMERGENCY: Any incident, actual or potential, which is not likely to seriously affect the overall functional capacity of the University.

MAJOR EMERGENCY: Any incident, actual or potential, which affects one or more buildings, and which will disrupt the overall operations of the University. Outside emergency services will probably be required, as well as major efforts from campus support services. Major policy considerations and decisions will usually be required from the University Administration during these incidents.

DISASTER: Any event or incident that has occurred and has seriously impaired or halted the operations of the University. In rare cases, mass personnel casualties and severe property damage may be sustained. A coordinated effort of all campus-wide resources is required to effectively control the situation. Outside emergency services will be essential. In all cases of disaster, an Emergency Control Center will be activated, and will be manned by University administrators to assure the emergency plans are properly implemented.

Any incident which fits one of the definitions above and concerns campus resources, and/or instrumentalities of the University immediately should be reported to the Office of Campus Safety at ext. 5555 (on campus) or 610 558 5555 (off campus). Campus Safety will immediately notify the appropriate Unit Vice President and/or the President of the incident.

SCOPE

The response procedures in this document apply to all Neumann University personnel and to all the buildings and grounds owned and operated by the University.

The University Emergency Response Plan includes response protocols for the following types of emergencies:

  • Fire
  • Utility failure
  • Medical emergency
  • Chemical or hazardous material spill
  • Criminal act
  • Civil Disturbance/Demonstration
  • Bomb Threat
  • Earthquake
  • Psychological crisis
  • Utilization of College facilities in support of community during natural or manmade emergencies

ASSUMPTIONS

The University Emergency Response Plan is based on a realistic approach to the kinds of problems likely to be encountered on the campus during an emergency or disaster. The plan is based on the following assumptions:

  • An emergency or a disaster may occur at any time of the day or night, weekend or holiday, with little or no advance warning.
  • The succession of events in an emergency is not predictable, thus published support and operational plans will serve only as a guide and checklist, and may require field modification in order to meet the requirements of the emergency.
  • Disasters may affect residents in the geographical location of the University, thus Township, County, and State emergency services may not be immediately available to assist with an emergency at the University.
  • A major emergency or disaster may be declared if information indicates that such a condition is developing or is probable.

DECLARATION OF CAMPUS STATE OF EMERGENCY

The authority to declare a campus state of emergency rests with the University President or designee, appointed by the President, as follows:

During the period of any campus major emergency, the Campus Safety Office will immediately place into effect the appropriate procedures necessary to meet the emergency, safeguard persons and property, and maintain facilities. The Director of Campus Safety, and Director of Facilities will immediately consult with the Vice President for Human Resources & Risk Management regarding the emergency and the possible need for a declaration of a campus state of emergency. The Vice President for Human Resources & Risk Management will consult with the President. The Vice President of University Advancement will be notified of the President's decision. When the President or designee makes this declaration, only those persons authorized by the University administration will be allowed on campus. Persons who cannot show proper identification and those who do not have urgent business on campus will be asked to leave the premises.

Unauthorized persons remaining on campus may be subject to arrest in accordance with the law.

CAMPUS EMERGENCY RESOURCE TEAM (CERT)


DESIGNATED MEMBERS AND AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITIES

The University shall establish and maintain a Campus Emergency Resource Team (CERT), which consists of the following personnel and areas of responsibility:

  • Emergency Director President or designee (appointed by the President)
  • Emergency Advisors Executive Council (Vice Presidents)
  • Emergency Coordinators Director of Campus Safety / Director of Facilities
  • Building/Facility Coordinator Director of Facilities
  • Campus Safety Campus Safety officers and all department resources, as necessary
  • Public Information/Media Relations Vice-President for Institutional Advancement and University Relations
  • Environmental Health & Compliance Director of Campus Safety /Student Health Services Nurse
  • Injuries/Student Health Services Nurse
  • General Supportive Assistance University Management Team (Directors)

CERT members will cooperate with the Emergency Director and Emergency Coordinators for implementation and coordination of the University Emergency Response Plan according to their assigned areas of responsibility.


The Emergency Coordinators will keep the President and Vice Presidents informed throughout an emergency situation. CERT members are to be in constant communication with the Emergency Operations Center. General responsibilities of the CERT members are listed below.

In the case of any declared emergency, the CERT members will assemble at the designated Emergency Operations Center. (RAB 4th Floor Board Room, BMB Bevilacqua Board Room).

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

EMERGENCY DIRECTOR

  • Overall direction of the University Emergency response.
  • Work with the others on the Resource Team and other administrators in assessing the emergency and preparing the University's specific response.
  • Determine and declare the conclusion of the campus state of emergency.
  • Notify and conduct liaison activities with the University administration governmental agencies, Campus Emergency Resource Team and others, as necessary.
  • Staff the Emergency Operations Center and if necessary designate another Emergency Center for prolonged operations.

EMERGENCY COORDINATORS

  • Overall coordination of the University emergency response.
  • Determine the type and magnitude of the emergency and resources for Emergency Operations Center and communications.
  • Initiate immediate contact with the Emergency Director, Emergency Advisors, and appropriate University administration and begin assessment of the University's condition.
  • Notify and utilize Campus Safety staff, Township Police, and other designated personnel, if necessary, to maintain safety and order.
  • Notify the members of the Campus Emergency Resource Team and advise them of the nature of the emergency.

UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATORS, FACULTY, AND STAFF

All employees are responsible for following established evacuation procedures and other protocols. In order to prevent and minimize accidents and to reduce incidents involving hazardous materials, work order requests, when necessary, should be promptly submitted to the Facilities Department.

In Emergency Situations:

  • Inform all employees under their direction of the emergency condition.
  • Evaluate impact the emergency has on their activity and take appropriate action. This may include ceasing operations and initiating building evacuation.
  • Maintain telephone/radio communications with officials from the Campus Emergency Resource Team.

BUILDING/FACILITY COORDINATOR

  • Provide equipment and personnel to perform shutdown procedures, hazardous area control, and damage on assessment, barricades, debris clearance, emergency repairs and equipment protection.
  • Provide vehicles, equipment, and operators for movement of personnel and supplies; assign vehicles as required to the Campus Emergency Resource Team for emergency use.
  • Obtain the assistance of the utility companies as required for emergency operations.
  • Furnish emergency power and lighting systems as required.
  • Survey habitable space and relocate essential services and functions.
  • Provide facilities for emergency generators and fuel during actual emergency or disaster periods.
  • Provide for storage of vital records at an alternate site.

CAMPUS SAFETY

  • Contact emergency authorities 911 as required.
  • Notify Unit Vice-President as described in the University Emergency Notification System.
  • Respond to the scene of emergency and assess the incident.Respond to the scene of emergency and assess the incident.
  • Take immediate and appropriate action to protect life, property, and to safeguard records as necessary.
  • In conjunction with Business Office, Human Resources, Information Technologies and Resources, and the Vice President for Finance and Administration, develop procedure for evacuation of vital records and data.
  • Provide traffic and parking control, access control, perimeter and internal security patrols and fire prevention services as needed.
  • stablish and control landing zones for helicopters as needed by the community.
  • Maintain communication with the Director of Campus Safety.

PUBLIC INFORMATION/MEDIA RELATIONS

  • Advise the President and Vice President for Institutional Advancement and University Relations of all news concerning the extent of disaster affecting the campus.
  • Immediately implement Crisis Communication Plan
  • Quickly secure accurate information and avoid premature or unauthorized spread of information.
  • Manage media inquiries.
  • Present positive side of crisis resolution efforts.
  • Compile questions & answers on subjects most likely to be addressed by the media.
  • Prepare and approve news releases, if necessary, concerning the emergency and release the information to the media.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND COMPLIANCE

Director of Campus Safety, in cooperation with the Health Services nurse, will inspect the Campus facilities to determine if any environmental health problems have occurred. They will report their findings to the Emergency Director.

INJURIES/HEALTH SERVICES

The Health Services nurse will provide any medical assistance to campus and community officials and shall act as a liaison to medical facilities stationed at the campus and in the local area.

GENERAL PROTOCOL FOR REPORTING EMERGENCIES

IN AN EMERGENCY:
CALL CAMPUS SAFETY AT EXT. 5555 (on campus) or 610 558 5555 (off campus).

LIFE THREATENING SITUATIONS:
CALL POLICE/FIRE/EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES AT 911

IMPORTANT:

  1. WHEN CALLING 911 OR CAMPUS SAFETY, GIVE YOUR NAME, LOCATION, AND THE NATURE OF THE EMERGENCY.
  2. DO NOT HANG UP UNTIL TOLD TO DO SO.

FIRE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROTOCOL

REPORTING A FIRE

  1. Pull the nearest fire alarm box in the corridor.
  2. Do not attempt to fight the fire. Use extinguishers for personal safety.
  3. Exit through the nearest door to the outside of the building to the nearest assembly area.
  4. Notify Campus Safety (610-558-5555) that you pulled the alarm and the location.

RESPONSE TO A FIRE ALARM WHEN YOU ARE IN THE AREA OF THE FIRE

  1. Evacuate all people from the area
  2. Assist persons with mobility difficulties in exiting the building where possible.
    a.Move persons with mobility difficulties to a stairwell and close all doors as you move to the first floor. This will keep the fire out of the stairwell.
    b. Inform a Campus Safety Officer if a person is waiting in a stairwell.
    c. Emergency Response personnel will evacuate persons in the stairwells.
  3. Close the door to the room or corridor if possible.
  4. Do not use elevators.
  5. Leave the building by the closest exit.
  6. Move to an external assembly area away from the building
  7. Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by the Campus Safety Department.

RESPONSE TO A FIRE ALARM WHEN FIRE IS LOCATED IN ANOTHER AREA OF THE UNIVERSITY

  1. Leave the building by the closest exit. Do not use elevators.
  2. Assist persons with mobility difficulties in exiting the building where possible.
    a. Move persons with mobility difficulties to a stairwell and close all doors as you move to the first floor. This will keep the fire out of the stairwell.
    b. Inform a Campus Safety Officer if a person is waiting in a stairwell.
    c. Emergency Response personnel will evacuate persons in the stairwells.
  3. Move to an assembly area.
  4. Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by the Campus Safety Department.

BACHMANN MAIN BUILDING POINT OF REFUGE AREA

In the event of an emergency evacuation, there are designated areas on the 2nd and 3rd floors where any students, faculty, staff, or visitors with mobility difficulties should relocate. Red emergency phones which are connected directly to Campus Safety have been installed on the 2nd and 3rd floors near the F stairwell and the A stairwell in the hallway outside the Science labs on the 3rd floor and near the elevator on the 2nd floor. Directly above the phones are red signs identifying the location of the phone being used. Any students, faculty, staff, or visitors with mobility difficulties should pick up the phone and notify Campus Safety of their exact location and need for assistance. Campus Safety will respond and alert emergency services personnel for evacuation assistance. Campus Safety shall check the building and the stairwells for remaining occupants and will remain with anyone in the point of refuge area until the emergency has been resolved or an evacuation by fire department personnel is required.

ROCCO A. ABESSINIO BUILDING POINT OF REFUGE AREA

In the event of an emergency evacuation, the stairwells in the Rocco A. Abessinio Building are to be used for a point of refuge for any students, faculty, staff, or visitors with mobility difficulties. The elevators should not be used. Campus Safety shall check the building and the stairwells for remaining occupants and will remain with anyone in the point of refuge area until the emergency has been resolved or an evacuation by fire department personnel is required. The Rocco A. Abessinio Building is also equipped with red emergency phones that contact Campus Safety directly. These phones are located near the elevators.

UTILITY FAILURE RESPONSE

Whenever a major utility failure or phone failure occurs - either during regular business hours (Monday through Friday 8 AM – 5 PM) or after business hours, weekends or holidays - immediately notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555.

If there is a potential danger to building occupants, evacuate the building. Once outside, move to a clear and safe area away from the affected building. Keep the walkways, fire lanes and hydrants clear for emergency personnel.

Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by a University official.

RESPONSES TO SPECIFIC TYPES OF UTILITY FAILURE:


Electrical

  • If the electricity is interrupted, back up computer files and shut down computer.
  • If you have sensitive equipment not plugged into a Surge Protector, unplug the sensitive equipment to protect them from power surges when service is restored.
  • Turn off as many lights and other electrical items as possible; this will help eliminate potential fire hazards and lessen the power draw when service is restored.
  • Contact the Facilities Office at 610-361-5217 and/or Campus Safety at 610-558-5555.
  • If an injury has occurred, immediately call Campus Safety at 610-558-5555 or 911.

Water

  • If there is no water or the water appears unclean, do not use and notify Facilities at
    610-361-5217 and/or Campus Safety at610-558-5555.
  • If an injury has occurred, notify Campus Safety at610-558-5555 or 911.

Plumbing Failure/Flooding

  • Cease using all electrical equipment. Notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555. Vacate the area if directed to do so.

Gas Leak

  • Cease all operations. Extinguish all smoking materials. Do not switch on lights or any electrical equipment. Remember, electrical sparks can trigger an explosion. Notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555 after you evacuate the area.

Steam Line Failure

  • Immediately notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555. If necessary, vacate the area.

Ventilation System Failure

If smoke odors come from the ventilation system, immediately notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555. Campus Safety will contact Facilities at 610-361-5217. If necessary, cease all operations and vacate the area.

Severe Weather Information:

Be prepared by listening to local news and weather reports from organizations like National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In the event of an injury or life threatening situation for any severe weather event contact Campus Safety at 610-558-5555 or call 911.

Severe Thunderstorm/Lightning

  • Severe thunderstorm/lightning can occur without notice or warning and can create dangerous situations.
  • Stay indoors and do not go outside unless absolutely necessary.
  • Avoid water using electrical appliances and landline telephones.
  • Stay away from open doors and windows.

  • Save all work and turn off computers (if possible). Power surges from lightening may damage them

Hurricane or Tornado

  • Stay indoors and away from windows and glass doors.
  • Close all interior doors. Keep blinds closed. Do not have a false sense of security if the weather calms, it could be the eye of the storm and winds can pick up again.
  • Go to the center of a small interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest possible level of the building.
  • Lie on the floor under a table or other sturdy furniture.
  • Do not use elevators.
  • Evacuate if you are directed to do so or if you feel you are in danger. Be sure to follow any instructions you are given.

Flooding

  • Stop using all electrical equipment.
  • Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
  • Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly.

Winter Storms and Extreme Cold

  • Be aware of winter storm warnings: storms occurring within 12 to 24 hours.
  • Be aware of winter storm watch advisories: storms occurring within 12 to 48 hours.
  • Stay indoors during the storm.
  • If you must go outside, walk carefully on snowy, icy, walkways.
  • Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive: travel in the day; don’t travel alone; keep others informed of your schedule; stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts.

Extreme Heat

Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
In the event of heat exhaustion or heat stroke contact Campus Safety at 610-558-5555 or 911.


MEDICAL EMERGENCY

In the event of a medical emergency incident involving an injury or illness on campus, call Campus Safety at 610-558-5555. If the injury or illness is life threatening, call 911 first, then contact Campus Safety and do the following:

  1. State the type of medical emergency.
  2. Give the location of the victim(s).
  3. Stay at the location of the emergency until Campus Safety arrives on the scene.


There are Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) located in the following places on Campus:


1 in the Patrol 1 vehicle
1 in the Patrol 2 vehicle
1 in the Rocco Abessinio Building main lobby
1 in the Bachmann Main Building behind the main lobby next to the library entrance
1 in the Bruder Life Center by the Cashier
4 in the Mirenda Center, two on the ground floor and two on the 1st floor located on opposite sides of the main gym in the Mirenda Center Athletic Department
1 in the Buoni Building by the Campus Safety desk
1 in the Child Development Center in between the main classrooms
1 in LLC 1 by the Campus Safety Desk
1 in LLC 2 by the Campus Safety Desk
1 in LLC 3 by the Campus Safety Desk

VIOLENT OR CRIMINAL INCIDENT RESPONSE PROTOCOL


If you observe a criminal act or whenever you observe a suspicious person on campus, notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555 immediately and report the incident, including the following information: 1. Nature of the incident. 2. Location of the incident. 3. Description of person(s) involved. 4. Description of property involved. 5. Type of weapon, if any. Note: If the incident poses a danger of death or bodily injury, call 911 first.

Timely Warnings When the Department of Campus Safety becomes aware of criminal incidents that, in the judgment of the University’s senior leadership, constitute an ongoing threat to the campus community, the Department of Campus Safety issues a Crime Alert to notify the community. These Crime Alerts are disseminated via the Department of Campus Safety. Depending on the particular circumstances, a timely warning will be issued without delay by the Department of Campus Safety and the information may be disseminated by using one or a combination of the following: e-mail distribution, Neumann University website, campus publications and postings and/or activation of the externally hosted emergency notification Campus alert system to advise the community of the situation. Neumann University withholds as confidential the names of victims.

HOSTILE INTRUDERS

When an intruder in a campus building is actively causing serious bodily harm or the threat of imminently serious bodily harm:

  1. immediately seek cover and call 911 and the Department of Campus Safety at 610-558-5555. Give as many details as possible relative to location, number of assailants, means of aggression and other information you can provide.
  2. Do not sound the fire alarm to evacuate the building. People evacuating may be placed in danger.
  3. Be aware of alternate exits if it becomes necessary to leave the building.
  4. Stay low and away from windows, barricade and or lock doors if possible and use furniture or desks as cover.
  5. If possible, cover any windows or openings that have a direct line of sight into the hallway.
  6. Do not leave the building until directed by Campus Safety or a police officer.

Unless the specific circumstances present a more dangerous situation by staying in the building than in attempting to escape. When an intruder is actively causing serious bodily injury or the threat of imminently serious bodily injury to people on the campus grounds:

  1. Run away from the threat as quickly and as safely as possible.
  2. Do not run in a straight line. Use buildings, trees, shrubs, cars, etc. as cover.
  3. Once you are away from the immediate area of danger, summon help and warn others.

Additional Information - Active Shooter

An active shooter is a person who appears to be actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area. In most cases active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims.

  • If active shooter is outside your building, immediately seek cover in an attempt to conceal and hide from the shooter.
    • Proceed to a room that can be locked.
    • Lock all windows and doors.
    • Turn off all the lights.
    • Get everyone down on the floor and ensure that no one is visible from outside the room.
    • One person should call 911 or Campus Safety at 610-558-5555.
    • Remain in place until the police give the “All Clear”
    • Do not respond to any voice commands until you can verify that it is a police officer.
  • If active shooter is in the same building follow same procedures as above.
    • If your room cannot be locked, determine if there is a nearby location that can be reached. Safely and secured or if you can exit the building safely.
  • If active shooter enters your office, classroom, or residence, try to remain calm.
  • Call 911 and alert dispatcher of the shooter’s location.
  • If you cannot speak, leave the line open so the dispatcher can listen to what is taking place.

What to report:

  • Your specific location: building name and office/room number
  • Number of people at your specific location
  • Injuries: number and type of injuries
  • Assailant(s): location, number of suspects, race/gender, clothing description, physical features, type of weapons, backpack, shooter’s identity if known, etc.

Shelter in place - A process by taking immediate shelter. Originally defined for weather, a chemical incident or terrorist attack. Also implemented as a response to armed events.

When University Authorities order a “Shelter-in-Place” they want everyone to take immediate action and building occupants are to remain indoors secured in a sheltered area.

Lockdown - The external and internal securing of buildings in the wake of an incident involving potential assailants possessing firearms with a hostile intent. Includes Shelter in place.

When University Authorities order a “Lockdown” they want everyone to take immediate action and building occupants are to remain indoors secured in a sheltered area and the exterior doors to the buildings shall be locked to prevent intrusion.

  • Stop classes or work, or close business operations.
  • If there are students, faculty, staff or visitors in the building, provide for their safety by asking them to stay.
  • Do not sound the fire alarm to evacuate the building. People evacuating may be placed in danger.
  • Be aware of alternate exits if it becomes necessary to leave the building.
  • Close and lock all windows, exterior doors, and any other openings to the outside. If possible, cover any windows or openings that have a direct line of sight into the hallway.
  • If you are told there is danger of explosion, close the window shades, blinds or curtains.
  • Keep your cell phone with you to the shelter area.
  • Select interior rooms above the ground floor with the fewest windows or vents. Stay low and away from windows, barricade and or lock doors if possible and use furniture or desks as cover.

Do not leave the building until directed by Campus Safety or a police officer unless the specific circumstances present a more dangerous situation by staying in the building, than in attempting to escape.

CIVIL DISTURBANCE AND DEMONSTRATIONS RESPONSE PROTOCOL

Most campus demonstrations such as marches, meetings, picketing or rallies will be peaceful and non-obstructive. A demonstration should not be interfered with unless one or more of the following conditions exists as a result of the demonstration.

  1. INTERFERENCE with normal operations of the University.
  2. PREVENTION of access to office, buildings, or other University facilities.
  3. THREAT of physical harm to persons or damage to University facilities.

If any of these conditions exists or the suspicion of such a disturbance exists, Campus Safety should be notified at ext. 5555 (on campus) 610-558-5555 (off campus). Campus Safety will inform the Vice President for Human Resources & Risk Management or the President.

Depending on the nature of the demonstration, the appropriate procedures listed below should be followed:

PEACEFUL, NON-OBSTRUCTIVE DEMONSTRATIONS:

Generally, demonstrations of this kind should not be interrupted nor the participants provoked. Efforts should be made to conduct University business in as normal a way as possible. If demonstrators are asked to leave but refuse to vacate at the end of the normal business day:

  1. Arrangements will be made by the Director of Campus Safety/Vice President for Human Resources & Risk Management to monitor the situation during non-business hours, or
  2. etermination will be made to treat the violation of regular closing hours as a disruptive demonstration.

NON-VIOLENT, DISRUPTIVE DEMONSTRATIONS

In the event that a demonstration blocks access to University facilities or interferes with the operation of the University:

    • Demonstrators will be asked to terminate the disruptive activity by the Director of Campus Safety or designee. If the demonstrators are students, the Vice President for Student Affairs and other key University personnel, and/or student leaders may be asked to go to the area and to assist.
  1. If the demonstrators persist in the disruptive activity, they will be apprised that failure to discontinue the specified action within a determined length of time may result in possible intervention by civil authorities.
  2. After consultation with the President/Executive Council, the need for an injunction and intervention of civil authorities will be determined.
  3. If determination is made to seek the intervention of civil authorities, the demonstrators should be so informed
  4. Upon arrival of the Police Department, the remaining demonstrators will be warned of the intention to arrest.
  5. Demonstrators will be informed that failure to leave the University property will result in being charged with the criminal offense of Defiant Trespass and that violators will be prosecuted.

VIOLENT, DISRUPTIVE DEMONSTRATIONS

In the event that a violent demonstration in which injury to persons or property occurs or appears imminent, the President or designee will be notified.

1.During Business Hours - (Mon - Fri) 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

  • The Director of Campus Safety will contact the Aston Police Department.
  • The President or designee will determine the possible need for an injunction.
  • Campus Safety will assist the Aston Township Police Department.
  • All other critical facilities (Computer labs, Computer rooms, Business Office, Human Resources, Vice Presidents' offices, President's Office, Facilities/Maintenance offices/shops should secure their doors to prevent entrance by the demonstrators.
  • The Executive Director of Information Technology and Resources should initiate the back up of data in the server room and prepare to evacuate the data from the University.

2. After Business Hours, Weekends, Holidays

  • Campus Safety should be immediately notified of the disturbance.
  • Campus Safety will investigate the disturbance and report to the Vice President for Human Resources & Risk Management.
  • The Director of Campus Safety/designate will initiate telephone contact with the Vice President for Human Resources & Risk Management. If the Vice President for Human Resources & Risk Management is not available, the President or other designated Vice President will be contacted.
  • If deemed necessary, by the immediate violent nature of the situation, Campus Safety will call the Aston Police Department for assistance.

BOMB THREAT RESPONSE PROTOCOL

1. If the threat is received by telephone, encourage the caller to talk. The person receiving the bomb threat should ask specific questions such as: a. When is the bomb going to explode? b. Where is the bomb located? c. What kind of bomb is it? d. What does the bomb look like? f. Why did you place the bomb?

2. Keep talking to the caller as long as possible and record the following information: a. Time of call. b. Approximate age and the gender of the caller. c. Speech pattern, accent, other distinguishing vocal traits. d. Emotional state of the caller. e. Background noises.

3. Notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555 and state that a bomb threat has been received including the location of the device and related information. After the caller hangs up, do not hang up your phone - attempt to use another phone to call.

4. Campus Safety will then call 911 for a police response. Campus Safety will coordinate informing occupants of the building(s) involved to evacuate to a safe area.

5. If a suspicious object or potential bomb is observed on campus, Do Not Handle It! Clear the area and immediately and notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555.

6. Do not activate the building's fire alarm system, do not touch light switches, Do not close open windows.

7. Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by a University official. Suspicious packages are any items capable of concealing or containing harmful substances that has been left unattended and/or visibly shows indicators of posing a potential threat.

Characteristics of Suspicious Packages

  • Excessive postage
  • Handwritten or poorly typed addresses
  • Misspellings of common words
  • Strange return address or no return address
  • Incorrect titles or title without a name
  • Not addressed to a specific person
  • Marked with restrictions, such as "Personal," "Confidential," or "Do not x-ray"
  • Marked with any threatening language
  • Postmarked from a city or state that does not match the return address.


Key Appearances

  • Oily stains
  • Discolorations
  • Odor
  • Excessive packaging material
  • Excessive weight
  • Ticking sound and/or protruding wires or aluminum foil

Additionally, items such as briefcase, gym bag, suitcase, etc. may be deemed suspicious solely because it is discovered unattended in a public place or near a sensitive facility.

What to Do with a Suspicious Package, Letter or Container

  • Do not panic. It is important for all of your actions to be careful & deliberate.
  • Protect yourself and others from an exposure to an unknown material. Do not touch, move or attempt to clean up the unknown material.
  • Isolate the area and evacuate all personnel from the immediate area.
  • Contact Campus Safety or police.
  • Do not use radios or cell phones.

  • All personnel who may have had contact with the unknown material should wash their hands with soap and warm water and shower with soap and warm water as soon as possible.
  • Do not use bleach or other disinfectants.
  • Make a list of names and contact information for all personnel who have come into contact with the unknown material.
  • Provide this information to law enforcement and health officials.


Carefully follow the instructions provided by law enforcement and health officials.

EARTHQUAKE RESPONSE PROTOCOL

  1. During an earthquake, remain calm and quickly follow the steps outlined below:
  2. If indoors seek refuge in a doorway or under a desk or table. Stay away from glass windows, shelves, and heavy equipment.
  3. If outdoors move quickly away from buildings, utility poles and other structures.
    Caution: Always avoid power or utility lines, as they may be energized.
  4. If in a motor vehicle, stop in the safest place available, preferably away from power lines and trees. Stop as quickly as safety permits, but stay in the vehicle for the shelter it offers.
  5. After the initial shock, evaluate the situation and if emergency help is necessary, call Campus Safety at 610-558-5555. Protect yourself at all times and be prepared for after-shocks.
  6. Damage to buildings or grounds should be reported to Campus Safety at 610-558-5555 and/ or Facilities/Maintenance at 610-361-5217
    Note: Gas leaks and power failures create special hazards.
  7. If an emergency exists, activate the building fire alarm system. Notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555 and inform them of the emergency.
  8. When the building alarm is sounded or when told to leave the building by a University official, walk quickly to the nearest exit.
  9. Once outside, move across the roadway and stay clear of the affected building. You will be notified whether or not to depart the campus area, and informed where to seek shelter.
  10. Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by a University official.

PSYCHOLOGICAL CRISIS INCIDENT RESPONSE

A psychological crisis exists when an individual is threatening harm to himself or herself or others. This type of incident also includes incidents when individuals are not acting in a rational manner. This could include uncontrollable behavior, hallucinations and the inability to effectively communicate with others. Such effects can be caused by a reaction to alcohol, drugs, or illness - physical or mental.

If a psychological crisis occurs:

  • Never try to handle a situation on your own that could be dangerous
  • Immediately notify Campus Safety at 610-558-5555
  • If the situation is life-threatening, contact emergency personnel at 911.

UTILIZATION OF UNIVERSITY FACILITIES IN SUPPORT OF THE COMMUNITY DURING NATURAL OR MANMADE EMERGENCIES

GENERAL

Because of the housing and eating facilities available, the Township of Aston may request the use of these facilities during natural or humankind disasters. The request may be initiated by anyone in authority from the community (police, fire, Aston community management, and Red Cross, Federal or State authorities.) The call may be made to anyone in authority at the University. The person receiving the call will direct the call to the Office of the President. The President will make the final decision. If the decision to support is made, the President will inform the Vice Presidents. The Vice President for Human Resources & Risk Management will direct the Campus Safety and Facilities department to initiate contact with the requesting authority. At this time the President will institute a state of emergency and all normal University activities will cease. Students may be sent home, if necessary.


RESPONSIBILITIES

FACILITIES AND RESIDENCE LIFE


Directors of Facilities and Residence Life will provide assistance in support of the community and will assist in providing oversight of the facilities that may house community personnel. The dining facility will respond to the direction of the Director of Facilities who will report directly to the agency head designated by the President and will direct the support operation and all University personnel.


CAMPUS SAFETY


The Director of Campus Safety will:

  1. Provide liaison to the requesting authority.
  2. Provide security and traffic control in coordination with the Aston Police.
  3. Provide support in developing helicopter landing zones on University property.
  4. Establish an Emergency Operations Center.
  5. Provide blueprints to the user agency as to the facilities and its capabilities for servicing the requesting agency.

PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENTS


The President will provide guidance to the Director of Facilities on support to the requesting agency. The President may deny a specific request from the requesting agency. The Vice Presidents will provide staffing of the Emergency Operations Center as needed or requested by the President.

PUBLIC INFORMATION AND MEDIA RELATIONS


The Vice President for Institutional Advancement and University Relations will implement the Crisis Communication Plan and:

  1. Will work with the requesting authority and press personnel.
  2. Will develop and clear all press releases.
  3. Executive Director of Marketing & Communications may support the Vice President for Institutional Advancement and University Relations in these efforts.