Delta State University Policies

Emergencies

 
Delta State University seeks to ensure the safety of the students, staff, faculty, and visitors during emergency situations. Procedures for various situations are outlined below.
 
 
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A tornado preparedness plan to help assure the safety of Delta State students and faculty members when there is a threat of tornadoes or severe weather in the area has been mapped out by college officials.
 
A tornado or severe thunderstorm WARNING is issued when a tornado or severe thunderstorm has been sighted and is approaching our area. University officials remind students, staff, faculty, and visitors of the following general safety precautions in the event of a tornado:
 
  1. Best protection is underground shelter.
 
  1. In open country move at right angles to tornado’s path. If there is not time to escape, lie flat in the nearest depression or ravine.
 
  1. On campus, in city or town, seek inside shelter standing against the inside wall on the lowest floor.
 
  1. In homes, the southwest corner of the lowest floor offers the greatest protection.
 
  1. If in a home or building, windows should be closed. Upon receipt of a watch (conditions are such that tornadoes are likely) notification, the DSU Police Department will maintain contact with Emergency Management until the danger has passed or a warning notification is received.
If a warning is received, two separate plans of action have been outlined, one for daytime hours and one for night.
 
Upon receipt of a tornado or severe weather warning during the evening and night hours, the Vice-President for Student Affairs will be notified immediately. He will notify residence hall directors who will advise students to go to pre-arranged areas. 
 
During daytime hours, students, staff, faculty, and visitors will be directed to the safest locations within the building in accordance with pre-arranged plans.
 
If necessary, buildings designated as fallout shelters by Emergency Management will be opened to offer as much protection as is available in the event of severe weather.
 
A siren warning will be sounded by the City of Cleveland EOC, Emergency Operations Center. In addition, DSU Police cars will be driving through the residence hall and apartment areas and any other area crowds may be gathered or students are on the streets blowing the sirens.
 
The fire escape plan for student residence halls will be discussed at the hall meetings held at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. Students should familiarize themselves with the recommended possible escape routes posted on each hall.
 
If the fire alarm sounds, students MUST immediately exit the residence halls or other campus building. Do not tamper with the fire alarm control panel, hall boxes, pull stations, smoke detectors, or electrical conduit – DSU police, Hall Directors, Assistant Hall Directors, RA’s, and designated campus personnel are the only authorized persons to silence the system. Students must remain outside until an authorized individual gives you permission to return to the building.
 
Fire escape procedures are posted in all building. Individuals should make themselves aware of the closest exit routine. If the fire alarm sounds, all individuals MUST immediately exit campus building and move to a pre-arranged location. Individuals should remain with their group in order to determine if all members of the group have move to a safe location. Everyone should remain outside until an authorized individual gives permission to return to the building.
 
Anyone failing to comply with this plan or anyone charged and convicted of tampering with the fire alarm in any way will face expulsion from the residence hall and possible dismissal from the university.
 
When you feel an earthquake, duck under a desk or sturdy table. Stay away from windows, bookcases, file cabinets, heavy mirrors, hanging plants and other heavy objects that could fall. Watch out for falling plaster or ceiling tiles. Stay under cover until the shaking stops. Hold onto the desk or table. If it moves, move with it. Here are some additional tips for specific locations:
 
  1. If in a high-rise building, move against an interior wall, and protect your head with your arms. Do not use the elevators. Do not be surprised if the fire alarm or sprinkler systems come on.
 
  1. If outdoors, move to a clear area, away from trees, signs, buildings, or downed electrical wires and poles.
 
  1. If on a sidewalk near buildings, duck into a doorway to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass, plaster and other debris.
 
  1. If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses, power lines, and other hazards. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over.
 
  1. If in a crowded store or other public place, do not rush for exits. Move away from display shelves containing objects that could fall.
 
  1. If in a wheelchair, stay in it. Move to cover, if possible, lock your wheels, and protect your head with your arms.
 
  1. If in a kitchen, move away from the refrigerator, stove, and overhead cupboards.
 
  1. If in a stadium or theater, stay in your seat and protect your head with your arms. Do not try to leave until the shaking is over. Then leave in a calm, orderly manner.
 
  1. After an earthquake, be prepared for aftershocks, and plan where you will take cover when they occur.
Delta state university police and other staff will immediately assist you after the tremor.
In the event of a raid or other disturbance, students should go directly to their rooms, lock doors and windows, lower blinds, turn out the light, and not shout from the windows or doors.
 
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