Emergency Response Guide: Evacuation, Lockdown, Shelter in Place

Evacuation

If evacuation is necessary during a crisis or emergency, the following information may be helpful:

ACTION CHECKLIST

• Follow evacuation instructions as they are provided.
• Go to the nearest safe area and remain assembled with your class or office workers. Be aware of your building escape routes.
• If dark, follow illuminated exit signs, posted evacuation route maps, and signage that shows entry/exit points for emergency evacuations. Know your building floor plan!
• Avoid hazardous areas that are difficult to navigate.
• Those with special needs will go to designated rescue points for people with special needs, and they will be safely evacuated by authorities.
• Good communication is critical. Listen to announcements. Assist those with any language barriers.
• Do not use elevators.
• Do not waste time. Move as quickly and orderly as possible to the designated evacuation point.
• Do not return to your building until an “all clear” signal has been given by emergency evacuation team personnel.

Lockdown/Shelter-in-Place

Depending upon the circumstances surrounding the emergency or crisis situation, evacuation may not be the best option. In the event of a hostile intruder, a shooting in the workplace, natural disaster, act of terrorism, etc., it may be necessary to lockdown or shelter-in-place rather than evacuate, especially if the threat is external, coming from the outside.

ACTION CHECKLIST

• Dial 3540 or 718.636.3540 or 911 if immediate police or medical response is required.
• Secure all windows and doors.
• If possible, monitor news reports for updated information.
• Good communication is critical. Keep students, faculty, and staff informed providing reports via intercom, portable radios, text, or email messages (15 to 30 minute intervals).
• Be sure to account for all students, faculty and staff when “all clear” announcement has been made.