Emergency Information

Emergency Response Plan

Winona Campus, Saint Teresa Campus, and Prairie Island Facility

Preface
 

This Emergency Response Plan has been designed to provide protocols for Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (hereinafter “the University”) to use in response to emergencies on its Winona and Saint Teresa campuses and at its Prairie Island Facility. This plan is intended to provide a means of mitigating emergencies that are of such magnitude as to cause a significant disruption of the normal operations of all or part of the University’s Winona or Saint Teresa campus or at the Prairie Island Facility.

Each emergency situation requires a specific response in terms of needed resources and proper protocols. This plan addresses each type of emergency on an individual basis; however, the protocols herein are designed to be flexible in order to accommodate contingencies of various types and magnitudes.

 

General Emergency Information

1. Purpose

The basic emergency response protocols outlined in this plan are to enhance the protection of lives and property through effective use of University and campus resources. Whenever an emergency affecting the Winona or Saint Teresa campus or the Prairie Island facility reaches proportions that cannot be handled by routine measures, the president or his designee may declare a state of emergency, and these emergency response protocols may be implemented. Since an emergency may be sudden and without warning, these protocols should be used as guidelines and adapted to each situation as it arises.

2. Scope

These procedures apply to all personnel and to buildings and grounds owned and operated by Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Winona, Minnesota and include those peripheral areas adjoining the University.   These procedures also apply to all personnel and to buildings and grounds on the Saint Teresa campus of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and the Prairie Island facility.

3. Types of Emergencies

Types of emergencies covered by this plan are:

  • Bomb Threat
  • Civil Disturbance or Demonstrations
  • Earthquake
  • Explosion
  • Fire
  • Hazardous Material Spill
  • Hazardous Weather
  • Infectious Disease Outbreak
  • International Programs Crisis
  • Mental Health Crisis
  • Missing Student
  • Nuclear Disaster
  • Suicide or Other Death or Serious Injury
  • Student Incidents
  • Telecommunications Failure
  • Utility Failure
  • Violent Behavior

4. Definitions of an Emergency

The President or his designee serves as the overall Incident Commander during any major emergency or disaster. The following definitions of an emergency are provided as guidelines to assist in determining the appropriate response:

A. Minor Emergency:  A minor emergency is any incident affecting only a small part of the University community or University physical property that will not seriously affect the overall functional capacity of the University.  A minor emergency may not require the intervention of the Incident Management Team as a whole; however, selected members of the team may be involved as necessary.

B. Major Emergency: A major emergency is any serious incident that affects an entire building or buildings and that will disrupt one or more operations of the University.  Outside emergency services will likely be required as well as major efforts from campus support services.  Major policy considerations and decisions would usually be required.  The Incident Management Team may be activated.

C. Disaster: A disaster is any University or city-wide event or occurrence that seriously impairs or stops the operations of the University. In some cases, mass 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 would be essential, but might not be available. Major policy decisions would always be required.  The Incident Management Team would be activated.

5. Communications

Any incident that has the potential for adverse publicity for the University should be promptly reported to the University’s Marketing and Communication Office.  That office will then implement its Crisis Communication Plan.

6. Assumptions

This Emergency Response Plan is predicated on a realistic approach to problems likely to be encountered on a campus during a major emergency or disaster.

Hence, the following are general guidelines:

A. An emergency or disaster may occur at any time of the day, night, or holiday, with little or no warning.

B. The succession of events in an emergency is not predictable, hence, 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.

C. Disasters may affect residents in the geographical location of the University, therefore city, county and federal emergency services may not be available. A delay in off-campus emergency services may be expected (up to 48-72 hours).

D. A major emergency may be declared if information indicates that such a condition is developing, or is probable.

7. Declaration of Campus State of Emergency

The authority to declare a campus state of emergency rests with the President or his designee.

During the period of any campus emergency, the Department of Campus Safety, as required, will place into immediate effect the appropriate procedures necessary in order to meet the emergency, safeguard persons and property, and maintain educational facilities. The Department of Campus Safety will immediately consult with the President regarding the emergency and the possible need for a declaration of a campus state of emergency.

When this declaration is made, only registered students, faculty, staff, University contractors, and emergency personnel are authorized to be present on the campus. Those who cannot present proper identification showing their legitimate business need to be on campus will be asked to leave the campus. Unauthorized persons remaining on campus may be subject to arrest.

In addition, only those faculty and staff who have been assigned Incident Command Team duties or issued an emergency pass by the Department of Campus Safety will be allowed to enter the immediate disaster area/site.

Direction and Coordination
  1. The President or his designee has overall responsibility for all emergency operations. In the absence of the President or his designee, the Department of Campus Safety will assume operational control of the emergency until relieved.
  2. All emergency operations will be coordinated by the Executive Vice President And Chief Operating Officer (COO) or his/her designee. The direct operational control of a campus major emergency or disaster is the sole responsibility of the Executive Vice President and COO or his/her designee. In the absence or unavailability of the Executive Vice President for and COO, the Vice President for Facilities will coordinate and assume operational control of any campus emergency or disaster.
Incident Command Post
When a major emergency or disaster occurs or is imminent, the Department of Campus Safety will set up and staff an appropriate Incident Command Post as directed. The regular department facilities and communications center located in the Toner Student Center is also to be kept operational at all times.

1.  Incident Command Post
If the emergency involves only one building or a small part of the campus, a Campus Safety vehicle will be placed as near the emergency scene as is reasonably possible. At least one Campus Safety Officer is to staff the command post at all times or until the emergency ends. A small office with a desk, chairs, and a telephone may also be required near the scene.

Incident Command Post equipment will include:

  • Barricades, barrier tape and signs for the scene
  • Two portable communications radios
  • Portable public address system
  • First aid kit
  • Campus directory and local telephone directory
  • Emergency generator
  • Other items as appropriate

2.  Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

If the emergency involves a large part of the campus, the Emergency Operations Center will be set up in the Toner Student Center. If this site is unavailable, the secondary site will be the Maintenance Office in the basement of Skemp Hall.  The Director of Campus Safety may select an alternate location to best serve the needs of the emergency.  At least one Campus Safety Officer is to staff the EOC at all times until the emergency situation ends. A marshaling area for outside and local agency assistance will be established by the Department of Campus Safety for operations of any combined on-site Incident Management Team.

Incident Management Team
In addition to establishing an Incident Command Post, as necessary, the Department of Campus Safety will immediately begin contacting all necessary members of the Incident Management Team which consists of the following personnel:

  • The President or his/her design
  • The Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Counsel
  • The Executive Vice President and General Counsel
  • The Vice President for Mission and Student Life or his/her designee
  • The Vice President for Facilities or his/her designee
  • The Vice President for Financial Affairs or his/her designee
  • The Director of Campus Safety
  • The Director of Physical Plant
  • The Director of Information Technology and User Services Chief Information Officer or his/her designee.

Team members will coordinate as necessary with the Director of Campus Safety for implementation and coordination of the Emergency Response Plan and support as it pertains to their areas. Team members will keep in constant communication with the Incident Command Post.

Responsibilities

1. Role of the President of the University or designee

A. Is responsible for the overall direction of the University emergency response.

B. Works with the Director of Campus Safety and others in assessing the emergency and preparing the University’s specific response.

C. Declares and ends, when appropriate, the campus state of emergency.

D. Notifies and conducts liaison activities with the University administration, governmental agencies, Incident Managemnt Team and others as necessary.

E. Authorizes campus evacuation orders.

2. Role of the Vice Presidents

Every Vice President has the following general responsibilities prior to and during any emergency:

A. Emergency Preparedness

1. Distributes building evacuation material to all employees with follow-up discussions, on-the-job training, or explanation as required, and

2. Allows time for training appropriate employees in emergency techniques such as fire extinguisher usage, first aid, CPR and building evacuation.

B. Emergency Situations

1. Informs all employees under their direction of the emergency condition, and

2. Evaluates the impact that the emergency has on his or her areas and takes appropriate action. This action may include ceasing operations and initiating building evacuation.

3. Executive Vice President and COO

The Executive Vice President and COO coordinates emergency operations. He or she is responsible for all decisions necessitated by an emergency. The  Executive Vice President and Coo is also responsible for the campus safety and evacuation of all students on campus.

The Executive Vice President and COO will direct all public information during emergency conditions. He or she will be responsible for the timely and accurate release of information to the media. The Executive Vice President and COO must approve all students on campus.

A. Establish liaison with the news media for dissemination of official information as requested by the President

B. Establish liaison with local radio and TV services for public announcements

C. Arrange for photographic and audiovisual services

D. Advise the President or designee of all news concerning the extent of disaster affecting the campus

E. Prepare news releases for approval and distribution

F. Manage website and social media as communication tools about the crisis

G. Coordinate on-campus media coverage

H. Direct the establishment of a media room

I.  Act as University spokesperson

4. Vice President for Mission and Student Life

The Vice President for Mission and Student Life is responsible for the dissemination of information to the students while maintaining information about the students throughout the emergency. This information will include the whereabouts and any injury that might ave been sustained during the emergency. He or she will also obtain the assistance of appropriate personnel from the Student Life staff.

5. Vice President for Facilities

The Vice President for Facilities supports the efforts of the President by directing the activities of the physical plant and leading the Director of Physical Plant in assessing damages to University property.

6. Vice President for Financial Affairs

The Vice President for Financial Affairs supports the efforts of the President by directing food service, purchasing, and all other units under his/her control. He or she is responsible for communication and coordination with supporting agencies from outside the University. He or she is also responsible for securing necessary food and water for the campus.

7. Director of Physical Plant

A. Provides equipment and personnel to perform shutdown procedures, control hazardous areas, supply barricades, assess damage, clear debris, make emergency repairs, and protect equipment.

B. Provides vehicles, equipment and operators for movement of personnel and supplies and assigns vehicles as required to the Incident Management Team for emergency use.

C. Obtains the assistance of utility companies as required for emergency operations.

D. Furnishes emergency power and lighting systems as required.

E. Surveys habitable space and relocates essential services and functions.

F. Provides facilities for emergency fuel during actual emergency or disaster period.

G. Provides for storage of vital records at an alternate site and coordinates with administration for liaison and support.

H. Lends workers to Department of Campus Safety as needed.

I. Locks and checks all buildings and controls utilities to all buildings.

8. Director of Campus Safety

A. Is responsible for the overall execution of the University’s emergency response.

B. Determines the type and magnitude of the emergency and establishes the appropriate Incident Command Post.

C. Initiates immediate contact with the President and the Executive Vice President and COO.

D. Assesses the University’s condition in relation to the emergency.

E. Notifies and utilizes Campus Safety Officers, and, if necessary, University staff in order to maintain safety and order.

F. Notifies and conducts liaison activities with appropriate outside organizations such as fire/rescue, police, Winona County Emergency Management, etc.

G. Performs other related duties as may be directed by the Vice President for Student Life in light of the campus emergency.

H. Prepares and submits in conjunction with the Director of Physical Plant, if appropriate, a report to the President describing the final outcome of the emergency.

9. Campus Safety Department

A. Maintains the Campus Safety office in a state of readiness.

B. Notifies University administrators of major emergencies.

C. Monitors campus emergency warning and evacuation systems.

D. Takes immediate and appropriate action to protect life, property, and to safeguard records as necessary.

E. Provides traffic control, access control, perimeter and internal security patrols and fire prevention services as needed.

F. Provides and equips an alternate site for the Emergency Operations Center.

G. Maintains liaison for telecommunications support as necessary.

10. Dean of Students

The Dean of Students will report to the Vice President for Mission and Student Life. The Director of Dean of Students will:

A. Ensure that all resident students and staff personnel are notified of the existing emergency conditions.

B. Properly train Hall Directors and Resident Assistants in emergency response protocols.

C. Gather student information as required.

D. Ensure that each resident student is aware of the University’s emergency response protocols.

E. Ensure that proper and up-to-date fire evacuation procedures are posted in each residence hall.

F. Prepare a plan to address those responsibilities specifically.

11. Student Health and Counseling Services

The Director of Health Services, unless instructed to evacuate, will report to the Vice President for Mission and Student Life. The Director will:

A. Open the Wellness Center.

B. Set up alternate clinics in locations as directed by the President.

C. Be prepared to treat all injuries of less than a critical nature that are the result of the existing emergency. (All others will be referred to one of the local medical facilities.)

D. Advise the Vice President for Facilities of problems with sanitation, water and food supplies.

E. Provide counseling as needed.

12. Campus Ministry

The Director of Campus Ministry, unless instructed to evacuate, will report to the Vice President for Student Life. The Director will:

A. Be available for personal support and prayer.

B. Organize prayer services, as appropriate.

C. Provide spiritual and ministerial support as needed.

13. Telecommunications

The Director of Information and Technology and User Services will report to the Executive Vice Presidentand COO during any emergency. The CIO will manage telephone, voicemail service, email and network service and cable television during an emergency.

Reporting Emergencies
  1. In an emergency situation, contact the Winona County emergency number by dialing 9-911 from a University telephone or 911 from a private or personal telephone. Then, immediately call the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a university telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone. Do not hesitate to call the Winona City Police Department at 457-6302.
  2. When calling, stay calm and carefully explain the problem and location to the person receiving your call. Do not hang up until you are told to do so. Keep calm and help others remain calm.
Notification System
  1. The University’s emergency notification system is the primary means of emergency notification at the University. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to sign up for text and voice mail alerts about emergencies on campus. This system is intended for the immediate transmission of specific information regarding an emergency to all areas of the campus.
  2. The Department of Campus Safety will notify the Executive Vice President and COO about any emergency situation. The Executive Vice President and COO will notify the members of the Incident Management Team.
  3. Only the Incident Management Team will receive the initial notification that an emergency exists. The Team will be instructed at that time as to the location where it will assemble. Once assembled, the Team will begin operations under the direction of the President or his designee. Each member of the Team will have key personnel whom they should notify and have on standby, ready to initiate any plan of action.
  4. Further notification of the President’s Cabinet, student body, faculty and staff will be as directed by the Team.
  5. During an emergency, the campus telephone must be restricted to University official notification only. In the absence of telephone service, the Department of Campus Safety may provide runners or two-way radio communications for emergency notification.

6. Night

In addition to the notifications above and as required by the emergency, the Department of Campus Safety will contact the Hall Director on all-campus duty. That Hall Director will in turn notify the Hall Director of each residence hall and give instructions pertinent to the emergency that exists. The Department of Campus Safety will also notify the night custodial supervisor. The custodial supervisor will be responsible for the notification of his/her custodial crews. If the emergency involves injury to a student, the Department of Campus Safety will call the Director of Health Services.

7.  Day

In addition to the notifications above, the Vice Presidents and other supervisors must ensure that all supervisors that report to them are notified and given instructions pertinent to the emergency situation that exists. If the emergency involves injury to a student or employee, the Department of Campus Safety will immediately notify the Director of Health Services.

Evacuation of all or portions of the campus

1. Justification

Evacuation of all, or part of Winona campus of the University will occur only under extraordinary circumstances. Such emergencies as a bomb threat, hazardous materials leaking into the environment, nuclear disaster, fire and civil disturbance can quickly create a need for evacuation.

2. Services

The Department of Campus Safety will normally receive the first notice of an emergency that may require evacuation. The Department will in turn notify the Executive Vice President and COO and advise him/her of the situation. The Executive Vice President and COO will notify the President who must then make two decisions.

A. Does the situation require the response of the entire Incident Management Team, or can normal University operations be utilized? If the Team is needed, the Executive Vice President and COO will notify all other members of the Emergency Response Team that an emergency exists and the location where they are to assemble for emergency operations.

B. Should all or only part of the campus be evacuated?

3. Building Evacuation

A. All building evacuations will occur when a fire alarm sounds, the emergency notification system is activated, and/or upon notification by the Department of Campus Safety. Do not activate alarm in the event of a bomb threat.

B. When the building evacuation alarm is activated during an emergency, leave by the nearest marked exit and alert others to do the same.

C. Assist persons with disabilities to exit the building. Remember that the elevators are reserved for persons with disabilities. Do not use the elevators in case of fire. Do not panic.

D. Once outside, proceed to a clear area that is at least 500 feet away from the affected area or building. Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrant areas and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel.

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

4. Campus Evacuation

A. The Office of the President will announce evacuation of all or part of the campus grounds.

B. Winona campus: All persons (student and staff) are to immediately vacate the campus area in question and relocate to another part of the campus as directed. The first area to which persons should be evacuated is St. Joe’s Field (the lower intramural field near the bike trail bridge).

C. Saint Teresa campus: All persons (student and staff) are to immediately vacate the campus area in question and relocate to another part of the campus as directed. The first area to which persons should be evacuated is Cotter Fields.

D. Prairie Island Facility: All persons (student and staff) are to immediately vacate the facility in questions and relocate to another area. The first area to which persons should be evacuated is the Winona City Park across the street from the facility.

5. Red Cross

If a building or campus evacuation is required due to an emergency situation, the Department of Campus Safety will contact the Winona Red Cross at 452-4258 to request appropriate assistance.

Media Relations
In an emergency situation, the University’s Crisis Communication Plan should be implemented as needed by the director of Strategic Communications. See the Crisis Communication Plan for details.

  1. Identify the emergency. Try to determine as quickly as possible the seriousness of the situation. Keep in mind that rapidly changing situation, i.e., natural disasters or fires, may require frequent reassessments.
  2. Prepare an initial fact sheet as soon as sufficient details are available. The fact sheet should be prepared in consultation with those closest to the situation and should be analyzed for informational, privacy, and security concerns.
  3. Prepare a brief statement based on the fact sheet that can be distributed to employees that may receive telephone calls from the media about the emergency.
  4. Identify key audiences. When feasible, address employees and students first.
  5. Determine the best method of communication.
  6. Identify an authorized spokesperson(s) who will meet and talk with the media.
Disaster and Major Emergency Procedures in General
These procedures are generally applicable to any occurrence on campus that may inflict widespread distress and destruction and should be read in conjunction with the specific procedures for events outlined below.

  1. The Director of Campus Safety or his or her designee will determine from informant the location of the emergency, a description of the emergency, and the number of injured persons.
  2. The Director of Campus Safety will dispatch Campus Safety Officers to the scene to assess the situation, assist with evacuation, and secure the perimeter. The Department will notify the Winona City Police Department and the Winona Fire Department as needed.
  3. The Director of Campus Safety will notify the Executive Vice President and COO who will then notify the members of the Incident Management Team.
  4. The Department of Campus Safety will establish a checkpoint to direct emergency response crews to the scene providing access to authorized personnel only.
  5. The Department of Campus Safety will direct students and employees to safe areas, typically the Toner Student Center.
  6. The Director of Health Services will coordinate treatment of any injuries. The Department of Campus Safety will authorize the Director to designate an area on campus for use by Health Services during the emergency.
  7. The Maintenance Department will coordinate the use of campus vehicles and campus drivers for transportation purposes if necessary.
  8. The Director of Strategic Communications will coordinate media releases as necessary.
  9. The Incident Management Team will direct management of the emergency and determine when the state of emergency ceases to exist and will coordinate the return to normal activities.
  10. Counseling Services will provide counseling and debriefing services following the emergency as necessary.
  11. Campus Ministry will provide support to students and employees as necessary.
Bomb Threat
Bomb threats are serious emergencies that require prompt attention. Although bomb threats are rare, they are most likely to occur during final exams. For most bomb threats, the caller announces that a bomb is set to go off at a certain time and then hangs up. Because routine bomb threat evacuations may spawn numerous hoax calls, consider the following:

  • Most intended explosions have no warning. Usually, after the bomb is detonated, a party claims credit and then explains why the bomb was used.
  • In cases where an actual device is located, the caller usually provides specific information for finding the device before the detonation time.

1. A person receiving bomb threat over the telephone should remain calm and act courteously. If feasible, ask another person to listen on another extension. Take notes on the caller’s threat, tone, voice characteristics and background noise by completing the Bomb Threat Form.

2. A person receiving a bomb threat should notify the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone to respond to the scene immediately to begin evacuation. Then call the Winona County emergency number by dialing 9-911 from a University telephone or 911 from a private or personal telephone.

3. The Department of Campus Safety will:

A. Notify members of the Incident Management Team.

B. Direct the evacuation of the affected area unless otherwise directed.

C. Notify the Winona City Police Department.

D. Establish a perimeter of 500 feet from the building.

E. Evacuate adjacent buildings where injuries could result from a blast.

F. Assist the Winona City Police Department as requested.

4. The Maintenance Department will assist with the initial search/evaluation.

5. Persons evacuating threatened buildings will:

A. Follow fire drill evacuation procedures. Do not activate fire alarm. Do not activate portable radios or cell phones in the area of the building(s).

B. Proceed to a clear area at least 500 feet away.

C. Stay together to help officials determine that evacuation is complete.

D. Not return until authorized by a campus official.

E. Follow directions of campus officials.

6. If a bomb threat requires evacuation during times of severe weather, affected employees and students will be instructed to take temporary shelter in the basement of the Toner Student Center.

Civil Disturbance or Demonstration

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

  • Interference with the normal operations of the University.
  • Prevention of access to offices, buildings, or other University facilities.
  • Threat of physical harm to persons or damage to University facilities.

If any of these conditions exist, Campus Safety personnel should be notified and will be responsible for contacting and informing the President and Vice Presidents. Depending upon the nature of the demonstration, the appropriate procedures listed below should be followed:

1. Peaceful, Non-obstructive Demonstrations

A. Generally, demonstrations of this kind should not be obstructed or provoked. Efforts should be made to conduct University business as normally as possible.

B. If demonstrators are asked to leave and refuse to leave by regular closing time:

  1. Arrangements should be made by the Director of Campus Safety to monitor the situation during non-business hours, or
  2. Determination will be made to treat the violation of regular closing hours as a disruptive demonstration (see section 2).

2. Non-violent, Disruptive Demonstrations

In the event that demonstrations block access to University facilities or interfere with the operation of the University:

A. Demonstrators will be asked to terminate the disruptive activity by the Vice President of Mission for Student Life or his/her designee.

B. The Vice President of Mission for Student Life will consider having a photographer available.

C. The Vice President for Mission and Student Life will ask key University personnel and student leaders to proceed to the area and propose that the demonstrators desist.

D. The Vice President for Mission Student Life or his/her designee will go to the area and ask the demonstrators to leave or to discontinue the disruptive activities.

E. 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 disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion, or possible intervention by civil authorities. Except in extreme emergencies the President will be consulted before such disciplinary actions are taken.

F. Efforts should be made to secure positive identification of demonstrators in violation to facilitate later testimony, including photographs if deemed advisable.

G. After consultation between the President, the Vice President for Mission and Student Life, and Director of Campus Safety, the need for intervention of civil authorities will be determined.

H. If determination is made to seek the intervention of civil authorities, the demonstrators should be informed. Upon arrival of the Winona City Police Department, the remaining demonstrators will be warned of the intention to arrest.

3. Violent, Disruptive Demonstrations

In the event that a violent demonstration in which injury to persons or damage to property occurs or appears imminent, the President and Vice President for Student Life will be notified.

A. During Business Hours:

  1. In coordination with the Vice President for Mission and Student Life, the Director of Campus Safety will contact the Winona City Police Department for advice.
  2. If available, the Vice President for Mission and Student Life will alert the President, who may then call for a photographer or videographer to report to an advantageous location to document the demonstration.
  3. The President, in consultation with the Vice President for Mission and Student Life and the Director of Campus Safety, will determine the possible need for intervention from civil authorities.
  4. The Director of Campus Safety will provide an officer and/or radio for communication between the University and the Winona City Police Department as needed.

B. After Business Hours:

  1. The Director of Campus Safety should be immediately notified of the disturbance.
  2. A Campus Safety Officer will investigate the disruption and advise the Director of Campus Safety and the Vice President for Mission and Student Life of the disturbance.
  3. The Vice President for Student Life will:
    a. Report the circumstances to the President.
    b. Notify key administrators and, if appropriate, the administrator responsible for the building and/or area.
    c. Notify the Director of Strategic Communications.
    d. Arrange for a photographer/videographer.
    e. If necessary, call for assistance from the Winona City Police Department.

The University reserves the right to call for assistance from the Winona City Police Department if it is deemed to be of paramount importance to the safety of persons involved.

Example of directive to Immediately Terminate Demonstration

  1. Identify self
  2. “This assembly and the conduct of each participant are seriously disrupting the operations of the University and are in clear violation of the rules of the University. You have previously been called upon to disperse and terminate this demonstration. (You have been given the opportunity to discuss your grievances in the manner appropriate to the University.) (In no event will the administration of this University accede to demands backed by force.) If you have not done so within fifteen (15) minutes, I will, under the authority of the President, take whatever measures are necessary to restore order, including calling the civil authorities for assistance. Any student or person who continues to participate in this demonstration is subject to possible arrest and will also be subject to suspension and/or expulsion.”

Example of directive to immediately terminate demonstration with the assistance of police

  1. Identify self
  2. “You have previously been directed to terminate this demonstration and you have been put on notice as to the consequences of your failure to do so. Since you have chosen to remain in violation of the rules and regulations of the University, each of you is hereby suspended, subject to later review.”
  3. “The police will now be called to assist in dispersing this assembly. Those who fail to leave immediately will be subject to arrest.”

After the demonstration, the Incident Management Team will meet to assess any communication or marketing issues associated with the demonstration.

Earthquake
During an earthquake always remain calm and quickly follow the steps outlined below:

1. If indoors, seek refuge in a doorway, or under a desk, or table. Stay away from glass windows, shelves and heavy equipment.

2. If outdoors, move quickly away from buildings, utility poles and other structures. CAUTION; always avoid power and utility lines as they may be energized. Know your assembly points.

3. If in an automobile, stop in the safest place available, preferably away from power lines and trees. Stop as quickly as safety permits, stay in the vehicle for the shelter that it offers.

4. After the initial shock, evaluate the situation and if emergency help is necessary, call the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone or call 911 if off-campus. Protect yourself at all times and be prepared for aftershocks.

5. Damaged facilities should be reported to the Maintenance Department during normal business hours. Gas leaks and power failures create special hazards. Please refer to the section on Utility Failures.

A. If an emergency exists, activate the building alarm.

B. When the building alarm is sounded, walk to the nearest marked exit and ask others to do the same.

C. Assist persons with disabilities in exiting the building. Remember that the elevators are reserved for those persons. Do not use the elevators in case of fire. Do not panic.

D. Once outside, move to a clear area at least 500 feet away from the affected building(s). Keep streets, sidewalks, hydrants and fire lanes clear for emergency vehicles and crews.

6. If requested, assist the emergency crews as necessary.

7. An Incident Command Post may be set up near the emergency site. Keep clear of the Incident Command Post unless you have official business.

8. After the earthquake, the following steps may be taken:

A. The Department of Marketing & Communication should photograph/video and document any damages prior to clean-up.

B. If an earthquake involves a residence hall, the personnel from the Department of Student Life will relocate affected students to the Toner Student Center until it is safe to reenter the building.

C. If an earthquake involves an academic/administrative building, the Vice President for Facilities will temporarily relocate classes or offices that are affected and insure notification to students and employees.

D. The Vice President  Mission and Student Life or his/her designee will provide notification to the families of student victims and employee victims.

9. Do not return to the evacuated building unless you are told to do so by a University official.

IMPORTANT: After the evacuation, report to a designated area assembly point. Stay there until an accurate headcount has been taken.

Explosion on Campus
In the event an explosion occurs on campus, the following action should be taken immediately:

1. Immediately take cover under tables, desk and other objects which will give protection against falling glass or debris.

2. After the effects of the explosion have subsided, notify the Winona County Law Enforcement Center by dialing 911. Give your name and describe the location and nature of the emergency. The Department of Campus Safety should also be notified at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone.

3. If necessary, or when directed to do so, activate the building alarm.

4. When the building evacuation alarm is sounded or when told to do so by University officials, walk quickly to the nearest marked exit and ask others to do the same.

5. Assist persons with disabilities in exiting the building. Remember that the elevators are reserved for those persons. Do not use the elevators in case of fire. Do not panic.

6. Once outside, move to a clear area that is at least 500 feet away from the affected building and/or area. Keep streets and sidewalks clear for emergency vehicles and crews. Know the assembly points.

7. Once on the scene, the Winona City Police and Fire Departments are in charge until the situation is resolved.

8. If requested to do so, assist emergency crews as necessary.

9. An Incident Command Post may be set up near the disaster site. Keep clear of the Command Post.

10. The Department of Marketing & Communication should photograph/video and document the damages prior to clean-up.

11. If the explosion involves a residence hall, personnel from the Department of Student Life will relocate affected students to the Toner Student Center until it is safe to reenter the building.

12. If the explosion involves an academic/administrative building, the Vice President for Facilities will temporarily relocate classes or offices that are affected and insure notification to students and employees.

13. The Vice President for Mission and Student Life or his/her designee will provide notification to the families of student victims and employee victims.

14. Neither employees nor students should return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by a University official.

Fire
Emergency response procedures in the event of a fire are divided into two categories: responsibilities of building occupants and responsibilities of the University.

1. Building Occupants

A. Know the location of the fire extinguisher, fire exits and alarm system in the area. Know how to use them.

B. If smoke is seen or smelled, investigate. Try to determine the extent of the fire (e.g., wastebasket, wing of building), the type of fire (e.g., paper, grease, electrical), and the location of the fire.

C. Alert the people in the area to the danger as quickly as possible. Pull the fire alarm station. Ask others to assist with the evacuation of the building.

D. Report the fire to the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone. Provide the building name, floor, room number, and type of emergency. Then call the Winona County emergency number by dialing 911.

E. If a fire appears controllable, attempt to extinguish the fire by directing the charge of the fire extinguisher toward the base of the flame. Place yourself between the fire and an exit when using the fire extinguisher to avoid being trapped.

F. If the fire is large and apparently uncontrollable, evacuate the building. Close all doors in order to confine the fire and reduce oxygen. Do not lock the doors. Assist persons with disabilities in exiting the building. Do not use the elevators during a fire. Smoke is the greatest danger in a fire. Stay near the floor where the air will be less toxic.

G. If trapped in a building during a fire and a window is available, place an article of clothing (shirt, coat, etc.) outside of the window as a marker for rescue crews. If there is not a window, stay near the floor where the air will be less toxic. Shout at regular intervals to alert emergency crews of your location. Do not panic.

H. Once outside, move to a clear area at least 500 feet away from the affected area, or building (s). Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and crews.

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

J. If requested, assist emergency crews as necessary.

2. University Responsibilities

A. Upon notification of a fire, the Department of Campus Safety will immediately call the Winona Fire Department.

B. The Department of Campus Safety will dispatch an Officer to the scene to:

1. Verify the situation.
2. Assist in evacuating any employees or students from the building.
3. Ensure that the elevators are on the first floor and locked open.
4. Provide directions to the Fire Department personnel entering the building.
5. Direct traffic and provide crowd control.

C. The Department of Campus Safety will contact the Incident Management Team and the Director of Physical Plant.

D. Set up an Incident Command Post near the emergency site.

1. Once on the scene, the Winona Fire Department is in charge of the situation until the fire is extinguished.
2. The Department of Marketing and Communication should photograph and document the damages prior to clean-up.
3. If the fire involves a residence hall, personnel from the Department of Student Life will relocate affected students to the Toner Student Center until it is safe to reenter the building.
4. If the fire involves an academic/administrative building, the Vice President for Facilities will temporarily relocate classes or offices that are affected and insure notification to students and employees.
5. The Vice President for Mission and Student Life or his/her designee will provide notification to families of student victim and employee victims.
6. The Department of Buildings and Grounds will initiate clean-up and repair.

IMPORTANT: After an evacuation, report to a designated campus area assembly point. Stay there until an accurate headcount is taken.

Hazardous Material Spill
Departments using hazardous materials must establish departmental clean-up procedures, including complete properties of the spilled materials. In the event of a spill, container failure, explosion or fire, immediate steps must be taken by responsible and knowledgeable persons within the department to minimize hazards and, if at all possible without risk or injury, to contain the spill.

Prior to the occurrence of any hazardous material spill, affected departmental employees must be familiar with the location of laboratory and safety equipment, including any spill kits, fire extinguishers, eyewash/safety showers.

The Incident Management Team will determine if a spill is a hazardous material spill and if the spill is minor or major.

1. Minor Spills

A. Take whatever steps are necessary to contain the spill within the immediate area of the accident.

B. Notify the Maintenance Department of the accident. Remain on-site to assist with clean-up procedures. If the accident occurs after hours, contact the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone and provide the Campus Safety Officer with as much information as possible.

2. Major Spills

A. Take whatever steps are necessary to contain the spill within the immediate area of the incident.

B. Then report the location and nature of the spill to the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone.

C. The Department of Campus Safety will notify the necessary specialized authorities and medical personnel.

D. Once the Department of Campus Safety has been notified, the key person on the site should evacuate the affected area at once by sounding the fire alarm and/or activating the emergency notification system. The area should be sealed off to prevent further contamination of other areas until the arrival of the Campus Safety Officer, or other emergency personnel.

1. When the building evacuation alarm is sounded, an emergency exists. Walk quickly to the nearest marked exit and alert others to do the same.
2. Assist persons with disabilities in exiting the building. Remember that the elevators are reserved for those persons. Do not use the elevators in case of fire. Do not panic.
3. Once outside, move to a clear area at least 500 feet away from the affected area, or building(s). Keep streets, walkways, hydrants and fire lanes clear for emergency vehicles and crews.

E. Anyone who may be contaminated by the spill will be directed to avoid contact with others as much as possible, remain in the vicinity and give their name(s) to the Campus Safety Officer.

F. If requested, assist emergency crews as necessary.

G. An Incident Command Post may be set up near the emergency site. Keep clear of the Incident Command Post unless you have official business.

H. The Department of Marketing and Communication should photograph/video and document any damages prior to clean-up.

I. The Department of Campus Safety should keep persons away from the evacuated area or building until the spill is cleaned up.

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

IMPORTANT: After any evacuation, report to a designated campus area assembly point. Stay there until an accurate headcount is taken.

Hazardous Weather
1. Severe Thunderstorms:

Thunderstorms consist of damaging winds, lightening and hail. This type of storm could develop into a tornado. Notification for this type of weather is normally given over the local radio and television stations. They receive this information from the National Weather Service which will issue one of the following alerts:

A. Severe thunderstorm watch: A possibility exists that a severe thunderstorm with frequent lightning, damaging winds, hail, and heavy rain may develop.

B. Severe thunderstorm warning: A severe thunderstorm has developed and will probably affect the area for which the warning has been issued.

Incident Management Team: A severe thunderstorm warning should be reported to the Vice President for Mission and Student Life or his/her designee. If the Vice President determines that conditions warrant protective action, he or she will have all other members of the Incident Management Team notified and, if necessary, issue the order to assemble. The Vice President for Mission and Student Life will have the weather conditions passed on to the student residence halls using the emergency notification system. The Department of Campus Safety will notify other areas.

2. Tornados:

A tornado is a violently rotating column of wind that can reach 200-400 miles per hour. The width of a tornado path ranges from 200 yards to one mile. A tornado, while suspended from a cloud, is in touch with the ground and can move at speeds of 30-75 miles per hour. It is virtually impossible to outrun a tornado. The centrifugal force of the rotating column of air creates a partial vacuum in the center of the vortex. It is the combined action of the whirling winds and the partial vacuum that produces a tornado’s extremely destructive force. The National Weather Service will issue warning using the following terms:

A. Tornado watch: Tornado formation in the area designated during the time designated is highly probable.

B. Tornado warning: A tornado has actually been sighted or indicated by radar. A warning will provide the location of the tornado at the time of the sighting, the area through which it is expected to pass, and the time period during which it will pass the area.

If in a building, move away from outside rooms and go to a center hallway. An interior area at the bottom level of a building is preferable. Avoid gymnasiums or other areas with wide, free span roofs. If caught outside with no time to reach an inside shelter, lie flat in the nearest ditch, ravine, or culvert with hands and arms shielding one’s head. Leave the ditch, ravine, or culvert immediately after the tornado has passed to avoid the possibility of flash flooding.

Incident  Management Team Reaction: When a tornado watch has been issued, the Vice President for Mission and Student Life or his/her designee will issue the order to assemble if necessary. The Vice President for Mission and Student Life will have the watch information passed on to the student residence halls. The Department of Campus Safety will notify other areas of the campus.

3. Winter Storms:

A winter storm includes intense cold, a breakdown of transportation, poor visibility, poor road conditions and disrupted utilities.

Incident Management Team Reaction: When notified, the Vice President for Mission and Student Life, in conjunction with other appropriate University personnel, will decide if the school should be closed, placed on a delayed schedule, or remain open. The Vice President will decide the need for the Incident Management Team to assemble as well as the location. In the event of severe snow and/or ice conditions, the University’s Snow and Ice Policy will be placed into effect by the Vice President of Facilities or his/her designee.

4. Flash Flood:

Flash floods are short-term events, occurring within 6 hours of the causative event (heavy rain, dam break, levee failure, rapid, snowmelt and ice jams) and often within 2 hours of the start of high intensity rainfall. A flash flood is characterized by a rapid stream rise with depths of water that can reach well above the banks of the creek.

A. Flood advisory means that thunderstorms have produced heavy rainfall that may result in ponding of water on roadways and in low-lying areas, as well as rises in small stream levels, none of which pose an immediate threat to life and property.

B. Flash flood watch means that conditions are favorable for flash flooding.

C. Flash flood warning means that flooding is imminent or is already occurring.

If a flash flood warning is issued for the city of Winona heed all instructions and stay away from areas where flooding is occurring. Even if there is no other indication that a flash flood may be occurring, immediately take the following actions to protect yourself from harm when you receive notification of a flash flood warning.

If you are outdoors:

  • If you are outdoors and near a creek or stream when a warning is issued, climb to higher ground on foot immediately. Avoid drains, ditches, ravines, and culverts.
  • Do not attempt to outrun a flood in a vehicle—cars will float in as little as one foot of water. Over half of all flash flood fatalities occur in vehicles.
  • If your vehicle stalls or is surrounded by water, abandon it and move to higher ground on foot.
  • If you are unable to move to higher ground, seek shelter on the upper floors of a sturdy building.
  • Remain alert for instructions and updates as they become available from emergency personnel and University officials.

If you are indoors:

  • In campus buildings, follow your building’s instructions regarding evacuation/shelter-in-place for flash floods.
  • Move to the highest floor possible, or follow the flash flood procedures for the building you are in. Remain in a sheltered location until Campus Safety officials have provided an all clear.

Other helpful information:

  • Use caution after a flash flood as risk of electrocution, dangerous debris, and other hazards may exist.
  • Use special caution at night because flood danger is more difficult to recognize.

Incident Management Team Reaction: When notified, the Vice President for Mission and Student Life or his/her designee will decide if the campus or particular buildings should be evacuated. The Vice President will decide the need for the Incident Management Team to assemble as well as the location.

Infectious Disease Outbreak
An infectious disease outbreak is defined as an outbreak of meningitis, tuberculosis, anthrax, botulism, smallpox, or other health problem that could cause an epidemic.

1. The Director of Health Services will coordinate the University’s response to any infectious disease outbreak. The Director will follow the American College Health Association Guidelines relating to infectious disease. Upon report of a possible infectious disease outbreak, the Director will obtain as much information as possible in the type of disease, where the outbreak occurred, and how many people are affected.

2. The Director of Health Services will assess the problem, determine the risk to the community, and, if needed, begin preventive measures to limit the spread of the disease. The Director will notify the Vice President for Student Life who will, in turn, notify the President.

3. If quarantine is deemed necessary, the Department of Campus Safety will secure the area.

4. The Director Health Services will coordinate with outside agencies as necessary.

5. The Director of Health Services or his/her designee will notify the families of affected students. The Vice President for Student Life or his/her designee will provide information to the students and employees.

6. The Associate Vice President for Marketing & Communication will coordinate any media releases as necessary.

International Programs Crisis

These protocols are intended to provide a means of mitigating emergencies that are of such magnitude as to cause a significant disruption of the normal operations of the University’s study abroad program. Each emergency requires a specific response in terms of needed resources and proper protocols; however, the protocols herein are designed to be flexible in order to accommodate contingencies of various types and magnitudes. In each situation, the Program Director is expected to exercise professional judgment to protect the safety and well-being of the University’s students and follow University policies.

General Guidelines for Program Director Relating to Emergencies Abroad

1. Safeguard the safety and well-being of program participants. Ensure participant’s safety by doing whatever is necessary and reasonable. When appropriate, obtain necessary emergency medical care as soon as possible. Diffuse growing anxieties among participants.

2. Immediately contact University staff and inform them in a detailed way about the situation. The appropriate order of contact is as follows:

                 a. Director of Study Abroad

b. Associate Dean for International Programs

c. Vice President for Academic Affairs

d. Vice President for Student Life

The Director should call until a contact person is reached. Do not leave voicemail messages, as the message system may not be accessed in a timely manner.

3. Keep University staff informed on a regular basis about the evolution of the crisis.

4. If the situation warrants, notify the U.S. Embassy/Consulate. Follow the Embassy’s procedures and directives. If there is a continuing risk to the welfare of program participants (for example, during a terrorist threat), ask the Embassy/Consulate to advise on a regular basis about the evolution of the situation and about recommended actions for participants.

5. If the situation warrants and if the Program Director and the Embassy/Consulate believe it is appropriate, notify the police about the situation. Then follow through with the procedures the police may require of the program or the participant(s).

6. In the event the Program Director is unable to call out of the country in the early phases of an emergency, proceed to secure the safety and well-being of participants following the advice of officials and U.S. Embassy/Consulate. Then contact University staff as soon as possible.

7. All communication with the media will be handled by the Department of Marketing and Communication as described in the University’s emergency Response Plan for the Winona Campus and the St. Teresa Campus.

Preventative Measures

1. The Program Director serves as the first line of contact during an emergency. It is imperative that the Program Director be accessible by telephone or cell phone 24 hours a day for the duration of the program.

2. The Program Director will have a list of program participants, their local telephone numbers, and a copy of the first page of each participant’s passport.

3. Students will be registered with the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website at: https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui

4. Program Director will have copy of each participant’s Health Information Form and Insurance Verification Form.

5. On-site orientation will be provided to all participants that will include information on personal safety and instruction in the procedures to be followed in case of an emergency. Specifically, the Program Director will instruct participants to avoid demonstrations, confrontations, or situations where they could be in danger; behavior that could call attention to themselves or identify them as Americans; and locales where foreigners, Americans, or American military are known to congregate. Also, the Program Director will instruct them to take down or remove signs and to avoid using luggage tags and wearing clothing that might label them as Americans.

6. Emergency contact cards will be distributed to all participants. This will include the Program Director’s home and/or cell phone number. A primary and secondary location will also be designated where program participants can assemble in the event of an emergency.

7. All participants in the London program will be required to purchase or rent a cell phone and carry it with them at all times.

8. The Program Director will test a telephone tree rapid communication system with all participants.

9. The Program Director will meet with the group of participants weekly to provide any updated information and to check-in to see if they have any issues/concerns.

10. All participants will be required to leave an itinerary and contact information for all trips taken during program with the Program Director.

11. The Program Director will identify all alternative means of communication with the U.S. that may be available at the program site.

Guidelines for Program Director Relating to Group Emergencies

1. Natural Disasters

A. Take care of all immediate needs, such as arranging for medical care.

B. Gather all participants together at the primary or secondary location discussed during orientation or wherever feasible.

C. If possible, contact the U.S. Embassy/Consulate and other local officials to discuss plan of action.

D. If time permits, contact University staff to appraise of situation and discuss plan of action.

E. Communicate all plans to participants.

F. Execute appropriate plans.

G. If necessary, evacuate. Evacuation may range from travel to a safer site in-country to departure from the country altogether.

H. Contact University staff and update on the situation along with new contact information if necessary.

I. University staff will notify each participant’s parents/emergency contact person of situation.

2. Civil Disasters

A. Take care of all immediate needs, such as arranging for medical care.

B. Gather all participants together at primary or secondary location discussed during orientation or wherever feasible.

C. If possible, contact the U.S. Embassy/Consulate and other local officials to discuss plan of action.

D. If time permits, contact University staff to appraise of situation and discuss plan of action. If Program Director was unable to contact the U.S. Embassy/Consulate or other local officials, then University staff should contact the U.S. Department of State desk officer to discuss plan of action. University staff will report plan of action back to Program Director.

E. Communicate all plans to participants.

F. Execute appropriate plans.

G. If necessary, evacuate. Evacuation may range from travel to a safer site in-country to departure from the country altogether.

H. Contact University staff and update them on the situation along with new contact information if necessary.

I. University staff will notify each participant’s parents/emergency contact of situation.

Guidelines for Program Director Relating to Emergencies with Individual Students

1. Sexual Assault

A. Talk to the student directly if possible to gather information about the assault and about the student’s physical and psychological state and to decide how best to respond to the student’s needs. Be sensitive to issues of gender and be aware that the student may prefer the support and presence of someone of the same gender.

B. Consider whether the student needs medical attention. If so, arrange for medical attention as quickly as possible. Depending on the student’s preference, either accompany the student or arrange for someone else to do so. Notify University staff as soon as possible.

C. Consider whether the student wishes or needs to receive psychological counseling. In consultation with University staff, arrange for the student to talk with a local counselor or University counselor.

D. Encourage the student to report the incident to the local police and assist the student in doing so. If the local police were the first to report the assault, obtain all available information about the incident and the response made.

E. Encourage the student to notify his/her parents/emergency contact. If he/she declines, consider whether the situation is sufficiently serious to recommend that University staff notify the parents/emergency contact.

F. Discuss with the student his/her current academic situation (upcoming deadlines, etc.) and whether or not the student feels that he/she will be able to continue his/her academic work. It should be made clear to him/her that if he/she does not feel he/she can continue his/her academic schedule, alternative arrangements will be made so as not to penalize him/her academically. If the student decides to return home, arrange with the student’s teachers for deadlines to be extended, work to be finished at home, or other appropriate measures. These arrangements should be clearly outlined, both verbally and in writing, for the student. Any changes in financial arrangements should be similarly clarified.

G. The student has the right to confidentiality regarding the incident and may not wish to have other program participants, faculty, or staff aware of what has occurred to him/her. Discuss this with the student and respect his/her confidentiality. Explain to student that incident needs to be reported to administrators of the University.

H. Evaluate whether preventive measures need to be taken to avoid a repetition of the assault either to the particular student involved or other program participants. If necessary, meet with the other program participants to discuss what additional measures should be taken.

2. Other Assaults: Follow the above steps as necessary.

3. Medical Emergencies (including attempted suicide and other psychological crises)

A. Arrange for immediate appropriate medical attention and notify University staff as soon as possible.

B. Ask University staff to telephone the parents/emergency contact and discuss the situation. Program Director should be available to talk to parents as the situation warrants.

C. If feasible, arrange for the student, on-site medical personnel, or other officials to be in touch with the student’s parents/emergency contact as soon as possible.

D. If necessary, assist student in notifying medical insurance carrier.

E. Evaluate whether or not the student may need to be medically evacuated. If this is likely, contact the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) Insurance Help Line. The $500,000 worth of coverage is for emergency evacuation expenses associated with injury or sickness, not with mental breakdowns or alcohol/drug related accidents.

4. Accidents

    A. Arrange for immediate appropriate medical attention and notify University staff as soon as possible.

    B. If necessary, file a report with the local police.

    C. Ask University staff to telephone the parents/emergency contact and discuss the situation. Program Director should be available to talk to parents as the situation warrants.

    D. If possible, obtain copies of the medical and police reports.

5. Missing Student

A. Gather information of when and where student was last seen and whether anyone knows where the student may have gone and when he/she is expected to return. Ask other students if they are aware of any circumstances that might cause the student to end up missing.

B. Report missing student to police department.

C. Contact University staff.

D. Ask University staff to telephone the parents/emergency contact and discuss the situation. Program Director should be available to talk to parents regarding the situation.

E. Decide if and when to notify the U.S. Embassy/Consulate.

6. Death of Student

A. Attempt to learn as much as possible about the circumstances surrounding the death of the student. Notify the local police and University staff.

B. Ask University staff to telephone the parents/emergency contact.

C. Notify the U.S. Embassy/Consulate.

D. Contact the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) Insurance Help Line.

E. Work closely with the family and other appropriate individuals to assist with travel and funeral arrangements.

Mental Health Crisis
1. A mental health crisis exists when a student or employee has inflicted harm to self, is threatening harm to self or to others, is presenting as extremely depressed, or is displaying psychotic symptoms, e.g. delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, disorganized or catatonic behavior.

2. If a mental health crisis occurs, stay with the person at all times or arrange to have another stay with the person until further help arrives.

3. Notify the Department of Campus Safety of the situation at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone number. Clearly state that immediate assistance is needed. Give your name and your location.

4. The Department of Campus Safety will

A. Assess the need to call the Director of Health Services and/or Director of Counseling Services and the Winona County Law Enforcement Center at 911.

B. Call the Vice President for Mission and Student Life or the Dean of Students in the event the situation involves a student. Call the Director of Human Resources in the event the situation involves an employee.

C. Determine if life-threatening objects are present, e.g., guns, knives, razors, pills, and procure them from the person.

D. Provide any physical assistance needed.

5. The Vice President for Mission and Student Life, as appropriate, will:

A. Call the Director of Counseling Services.

B. Proceed to the scene.

C. Act as a liaison with the family.

D. Follow-up with the Director of Residence Life and faculty in the case of students and with the employee’s supervisor in the case of an employee.

6. The Director of Counseling Services will:

A. Assist with emergency counseling.

B. Assist in the assessment and determination of a referral or transportation to a medical facility in the case of students.

C. Make recommendations for re-entry into the University community in the case of students based on an assessment by outside professionals.

D. Follow up with debriefing and counseling for the involved participants.

7. The Dean of Campus Ministry will provide or arrange for spiritual/ministerial counseling or support as requested.

Missing Student
If a member of the University community has reason to believe that a student is missing, whether or not the student resides on campus, all possible efforts will be made to locate the student to determine his or her state of health and well-being through the collaboration of the Department of Campus Safety, the Office of Student Life and local law enforcement.

All reports of missing or suspected resident students should be reported to the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 on a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone. In an effort to avoid jurisdictional conflicts when an off-campus, and/or commuter student is reported missing, the University will notify the appropriate law enforcement agency having jurisdiction. The University will assist law enforcement authorities with these investigations as required.

Procedure

If a member of the University community has reason to believe that a student is missing, whether or not the student resides on campus, all possible efforts are made to locate the student to determine his or her state of health and well-being through the collaboration of the Department of Campus Safety and the Office of Student Life. If the student is an on-campus resident, Campus Safety personnel will secure authorization to make a welfare entry into the student’s room. If an off-campus student resident is reported missing the University will informally enlist the aid of the appropriate law enforcement agency having jurisdiction.

Concurrently University officials will endeavor to determine the student’s whereabouts through contact with friends, associates, and/or employers of the student. Whether or not the student has been attending classes, labs, recitals, and scheduled organizational or academic meetings or appearing for scheduled work shifts will be established.

If located, verification of the student’s state of health and intention of returning to campus will be made. When and where appropriate a referral will be made to the Wellness Center.

If not located, notification of the family within 24 hours of receiving the initial report is made to determine if they know of the whereabouts of the student. If the student is an off-campus resident, appropriate family members or associates will be encouraged to make an official missing person report to the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction. Campus Safety personnel will cooperate, aid and assist the primary investigative agency in all ways prescribed by law.

Additionally, when a report of a missing student is received by the University the following procedure will take place where and when applicable.

When a report of a missing person is received by the University, the individual taking the initial report will gather all relevant information, including, but not limited to, the identity of the reporting party (including contact information), identity and description of the missing student, circumstances surrounding the disappearance, location last seen, and any other information determined to be relevant to the investigation.

1. The individual receiving the report will immediately report the incident to the Director of Campus Safety. A determination will then be made as to contacting other University officials and/or departments (i.e. Student Life, Dean of Students, Residence Life, etc.).

2. The Director of Campus Safety (or designee) will coordinate the investigation to determine the whereabouts of the missing student, including, but not limited to, conducting a follow-up investigation, checking class schedules, keying the students residence hall room, contacting roommates, friends, acquaintances, contacting law enforcement if appropriate, contacting known employers, etc.

3. Campus Safety personnel will contact other University offices that may include the following; Student Life, Financial Affairs, Academic Affairs, Registrar, etc. In addition notification will be made to the Vice President for Student Life and the Dean of Students.

4. If the student resides off campus, the University may notify the appropriate law enforcement agency and/or encourage the missing student’s parent, guardian and/or friend to contact law enforcement to make the appropriate notification to the agency with jurisdiction over the missing person. In these matters the University will provide whatever assistance necessary and required by the law enforcement agency to facilitate locating the missing student.

5. If not located, notification of the family within 24 hours of receiving the initial report is made to determine if they know of the whereabouts of the student. If the student is an off-campus resident, appropriate family members or associates will be encouraged to make an official missing person report to the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction. The University will cooperate, aid and assist the primary investigative agency in all ways prescribed by law.

6. If located, verification of the student’s state of health and intention of returning to the campus is made. When and where appropriate a referral will be made by the University to the Wellness Center

7. In the event the student is under 18 years of age or is not emancipated, the University shall make notification to the custodial parent or guardian immediately.

8. Additionally, the University may take any measure necessary (not previously mentioned in this policy) to determine the whereabouts of a missing student in conformance with applicable laws.

Nuclear Disaster
The City of Winona and, consequently, the University are within the federally designated fall-out area for any disaster at the Prairie Island Nuclear Power Plant in Red Wing, MN.

1. Students, faculty, and staff will be notified of a nuclear disaster using the University’s emergency notification system. Notification may also be made through the emergency alert system on local television stations.

2. That notification will advise whether students, faculty, and staff should evacuate or shelter in place.

A. Evacuate:
If you are asked to evacuate, follow instructions promptly. Don’t panic. You will have time to pack a few personal items and secure your room as if you were going on vacation, unless radio instructions tell you otherwise. Close all doors and windows. All normal traffic laws will be maintained. Your local law enforcement agency will assist with evacuation. Once you hear the evacuation order over the radio or television, follow the instructions given by local and state authorities.

B. Shelter in Place:
Go indoors and stay inside. Close all outside doors and windows. Turn off all air conditioning or ventilating devices that might draw in outside air. If possible, go to the bottom floor of your building and take a radio with you. Listen to your radio or television for further instructions. Radio and television reports will provide the status of the emergency. Do not leave your shelter or evacuate unless told to do so. If you must go outside to warn a friend or family member, limit your time to an hour or less. Cover your mouth and nose with a wet cloth while you are outside. If you must go outside and are exposed to a radioactive release, go inside, remove your clothing, place it in a plastic bag, and take a shower. Do not eat any outdoor food such as wildlife, wild edibles (plants, fruit, berries, mushrooms and seeds), poultry, eggs, dairy products or garden produce until instructed by authorities.

Suicide or Other Death or Injury of a Student
This procedure should be used when a student is found dead on campus through accident, illness, or apparent suicide.

1. The individual discovering the student should call the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone, the Winona County Law Enforcement Center at 911, and the Vice President for Mission and Student Life or Dean of Students. The individual should then secure the area until the Department of Campus Safety arrives. Notification to the family will occur through a personal visit coordinated by the local law enforcement.

2. The Department of Campus Safety will proceed to the scene and secure it until the Winona City Police Department arrives. Bystanders should be cleared from the area. The Department of Campus Safety will serve as liaison with the Winona City Police Department.

3. The Vice President for Mission and Student Life will:

A. Call the individuals listed on the Notification Guidelines for Student Incidents below.

B. Designate a room for emergency headquarters and a room for the community to gather.

C. Designate a parent liaison.

D. Communicate with employees and staff.

E. Grant academic accommodations as needed after consultation with appropriate parties.

F. Notify the registrar and remove the student’s name from University mailing lists.

G. Coordinate the University community’s response for the funeral.

4. The Director of Counseling Services will:

A. Call additional counselors and health services personnel as required.

B. Be available for personal support.

C. Assess the emotional impact of the event on campus constituencies.

D. Make available grief and trauma management resources to student and employees.

E. Arrange for debriefing of employees and students.

F. Provide follow-up counseling for students as needed.

        5. The Director of Campus Ministry will:

A. Be available for personal support and prayer.

B. Organize prayer services.

C. Call priests to the scene.

6. The Dean of Students will:

A. Communicate with residence life staff.

B. Assist with residence hall meetings as needed.

C. Provide food and beverages in appropriate locations.

D. Arrange special meals for the family.

E. Reserve housing and vehicles for the family.

Student Incidents
The following notification procedures should be used in the event the health or well-being of a University student is adversely affected.

Notification Guidelines for Student Incidents

Type of Incident Person(s) to Contact Immediately Person(s) to Contact Next
Accidental Death VP for Student Life
Dean of Students
Family (personal visit)
Marketing & Communication
Campus Safety
Wellness Center
President
Boyfriend/Girlfriend
Roomates
Director of Residence Life
Campus Ministry
Suicide VP for Student Life
Students
Family
Wellness Center
Marketing & Communication
Campus Safety
President
Director of Residence Life
Roommates
Boyfriend/Girlfriend
Campus Ministry
Sexual Assault VP for Student Life
Dean of Students
Family
Campus Safety
Executive Vice President
Director of Residence Life
Wellness Center
Marketing & Communication
Campus Ministry
Injury/Illness Dean of Students
Family
Director of Residence Life
Wellness Center
VP for Student Life
Roommates
Boyfriend/Girlfriend
Campus Ministry
Mental Health Crisis Dean of Students
Wellness Center
Family
VP for Student Life
Marketing & Communication
Director of Residence Life
Drug/Alcohol Overdose  VP for Student Life
Dean of Students
Family
Wellness Center
President
Director of Residence Life
Marketing & Communication
Campus Ministry

** If the student is an international student, contact the Office for International Students.

** If the student is an athlete, contact the Director of Athletics.

These notification procedures assume necessary emergency response personnel have already been notified and the emergency is being mitigated.

Telecommunications Failure
Emergency situations causing telecommunications failure can be the result of a variety of incidents from a simple power outage to a major storm. In the event of an emergency whereby the campus telephone system should become inoperable, communications will occur via radio, cell phones, website, and emails.

1. Report telephone system failures during normal hours to the Information Technology Department. Report problems after hours to the Department of Campus Safety. The Department will contact the Telecommunications Coordinator after hours.

2. The Information Technology Department will post an e-mail message to the entire campus describing the extent and duration of the problem and will advise critical departments to use cell phones.

3. The Department of Campus Safety will check other methods of communication that could be used instead of the telephone, such as cell phones, radios, fax machines, e-mail, pay phones, and phones in the halls and in emergency boxes.

4. The Department of Campus Safety and the Maintenance Department will place personnel with radios in critical locations to communicate with the Campus Safety and Maintenance personnel.

5. Turn on any radios and monitor any Emergency Management Agency broadcasts.

6. Follow directions from University personnel.

7. The Director of Information Technology and User Services will:

A. Convene a meeting with the appropriate parties to discuss the problem and solution options.

B. Determine the approximate length of the outage/shutdown and notify the campus community by the best method(s) available.

C. Address the technical aspects of outage with in-house personnel and if needed seek assistance from outside sources/contractors.

D. Determine and implement the corrective measures required in order to minimize or eliminate the possibility of re-occurrence of the problem/issue which caused the outage.

Utility Failure
Even though utility failures are rare, they can occur. These failures can range from transformer failure affecting only a small portion of the campus to a complete campus power outage caused by a storm.

If the utility failure involves only one building or a small portion of the campus, the Maintenance Department will contact Xcel Energy. If personnel from the Maintenance Department are unavailable, the Department of Campus Safety will contact Xcel Energy.

1. Loss of Electrical Power

A. In the event of a major utility failure occurring during regular working hours (8:00 A.M. through 4:30 P.M. Monday through Friday) immediately notify the Maintenance Department at 1436 from a University telephone or 507-457-1436 from a private or personal telephone. The Maintenance Department will dispatch an electrician to the scene. The electrician will evaluate the extent of the power failure and call for additional help if needed.

B. If electric power fails in a building after hours, notify the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone. The Department of Campus Safety will dispatch an Officer to the scene and notify the Maintenance staff member on call. The on-call staff member will evaluate the problem and call in additional help if needed,

C. If the electrical failure involves on-campus equipment, except transformers, Maintenance Department personnel will attempt to correct the problem. Xcel Energy will be called if the problem is in a transformer or any electrical substation. The Maintenance Department will work closely with the Xcel Energy to correct problems.

D. If the problem is electrical and affects a building with elevators, the Department of Campus Safety will check for stranded people in elevators and contact the Maintenance Department to render assistance.

E. The Maintenance Department will notify the Vice President of Facilities if an entire building is affected.

F. Evacuate the building if so instructed. Turn equipment off as you leave to prevent a power surge from damaging equipment when the power comes back on. The decision to close a building will be made by the Director of Physical Plant in consultation with the Vice President of Facilities.

G. If the problem affects residence halls, the Director of Residence Life will be notified. If the failure will be prolonged or will render the buildings unsafe for occupancy, students will be temporarily relocated to buildings where heat and electricity are available.

H. Laboratories will be evacuated immediately when an outage occurs because laboratory fume hoods will not operate without power, and a hazardous indoor environment could result.

I. The Department of Campus Safety will call in additional Officers to walk the campus and buildings with flashlights until the power has been restored. It will also, in conjunction with the Maintenance Department, check elevators for stranded passengers.

J. Once utilities are restored, the Maintenance Department will ensure that all building mechanical devices are restarted, reset, and functioning properly.

K. At present campus building lighting may not provide sufficient illumination in corridors and stairs for safe exiting. It is therefore advisable to have a flashlight available for emergencies.

L. The Vice President for Financial Affairs will be notified of any loss of electrical power so that appropriate reports may be made to insurance providers.

2. Plumbing Failure/Flooding

A. Notify the Maintenance Department at 1436 from a University telephone or 507-457-1436 from a private or personal telephone during normal hours. The Maintenance Department will dispatch a plumber to the scene to evaluate the severity of the problem. The plumber will call for additional help if needed.

B. Call the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone after hours. The Campus Safety Department will send an Officer to the scene to assess the situation and call the on-call plumber if necessary.

C. Do not use electrical equipment in the area of the flooding. If necessary, evacuate the area. Keep unauthorized personnel from entering the area. REMEMBER, THERE IS AN EXTREME DANGER OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.

D. The plumber will attempt to stop the flow of water. An electrician will be called if there is a danger of electric shock. Additional personnel will be called as necessary to handle the problem. Housekeeping may be called to clean up the water. Workers will not enter a flooded area until the power has been shut off.

E. Building occupants will be notified to evacuate the building if the water or sewage systems cannot be restored in a reasonable amount of time. The building will be closed until reopened by the Maintenance Department. The decision to evacuate the building will be made by the Director of Physical Plant.

F. As soon as it is safe to enter the flooded area, use pumps, wet/dry shop vacuums, or mops to remove water. Place plastic sheeting over equipment and supplies to prevent further damage.

G. Use floor fans to maximize ventilation. If necessary, control of the HVAC system should be modified to maintain proper humidity.

H. The Department of Campus Safety will take pictures of the damage and submit insurance reports to the Business Department.

3. Natural Gas Leak

A. If you smell natural gas or hear blowing or hissing noises, open a window if possible and quickly leave the area. Turn off all possible ignition sources. Do not switch on lights or any electrical equipment. Do not use the phone. Electrical arcing can trigger an explosion. During normal hours call The Maintenance Department at 1436 from a University telephone or 507-457-1436 from a private or personal telephone and the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone removed from the area.

B. Activate the fire alarm and the emergency notification system if you believe there is potential danger to building occupants. All building occupants will evacuate when the alarm sounds. Once outside, move to a clear area that is at least 500 feet away from the affected building. Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and crews. Follow directions of emergency personnel.

C. The Maintenance Department will dispatch a plumber to the scene. The plumber will search the immediate area for the source of the leak, shut off the gas supply if possible, and repair the piping or valve. If there is a large leak that could endanger personnel or if the source of the leak cannot be found, the plumber will call Xcel Energy. The plumber may call an electrician to shut down electrical equipment if necessary.

D. The Department of Campus Safety will prevent access to the scene, call the Fire Department and evacuate the area if they believe building occupants are in danger.

E. After hours call the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone. An Officer will investigate and call the on-call plumber if necessary. The Officer will evacuate the building and call the Fire Department if occupants are in danger.

F. The Director of Physical Plant will notify the gas company if the leak is on the gas company’s side of the meter.

G. If the leak is from a ruptured underground line:

1. Immediately call the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone and the Maintenance Department at 1436 from a University telephone or 507-457-1436 from a private or personal telephone. The Department of Campus Safety will call the Fire Department. The Director of Physical Plant will call Xcel Energy.

2. If the gas is getting into the building pull the fire alarm and evacuate.

3. The Department of Campus Safety will cordon off the area. No one will be allowed into this area. All ignition sources must be turned off. Do not start automobiles within this area. The Department of Campus Safety will evacuate buildings in danger and warn non-University property owners in the area.

4. Xcel Energy will shut off the leak and repair the pipe.

5. The Department of Campus Safety upon consultation with the Fire Department will give the all clear and allow reentry into the building.

4. Elevator Failure

A. If you are trapped in an elevator, use the emergency phone to call the Department of Campus Safety or call 507-457-1703 on a private or personal telephone and pull the emergency alarm.

B. During normal hours the Department of Campus Safety will call the Maintenance Department who will send an appropriate individual to the elevator to investigate the problem. The Department of Campus Safety will also respond.

C. After normal hours, a Campus Safety Officer will go to the site and assess the problem. The Officer will call the on-call electrician if necessary. The officer will explain to the occupants of the elevator that help is on the way. Unless there is an emergency that could endanger the lives of the occupants, the officer will not attempt to open the elevator door.

D. The electrician will attempt to lower or raise the car to the landing. If the car will not move and it is slightly above or below the landing the officer and the electrician will open the car door and let people off. If there is significant space showing between the car and the landing floor level, the occupants will be told to remain calm and that help is on the way. The electrician will call the elevator company for assistance.

E. As a last resort the Fire Department and rescue squad will be called to safely extract occupants.

5. Sprinkler Leakage

A. If a sprinkler accidentally discharges in any building, call the Maintenance Department at 1436 from a University telephone or 507-457-1436 from a private or personal telephone.

B. During normal hours, the Maintenance Department will dispatch a plumber to the scene. The Maintenance Department will also call the Department of Campus Safety. The plumber will turn the valve off once the Campus Safety Officer assures him there is no fire.

C. After hours the Department of Campus Safety will dispatch an Officer to the scene to see if there is a fire. If there is no fire, the Officer will call the on-call plumber and turn off the valve.

D. The plumber will repair the sprinkler head with a new sprinkler head.

E. Staff from the building or a Campus Safety Officer will stand by the valve until the sprinkler head has been repaired.

F. The Maintenance Department will reset the fire alarm panel after the repair has been made.

G. The plumber will call necessary backup personnel such as housekeepers, electricians and supervisors to assist with the problem.

Violent Behavior: General

General

1. Security and safety on campus are coordinated by the Department of Campus Safety. It conducts both foot and vehicular patrol of the campus 24 hours a day. The Campus Safety Office is located in the Toner Student Center. The Campus Safety Office may be contacted any time of the day or night at 1703 from a University telephone or at 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone. Emergency situations may also be reported by dialing 911 or 507-457-6302 (Winona City Police Department).

2. Employees and students are asked to assist in making the campus a safe place by being alert to suspicious situations and promptly reporting them. “If you see something, say something.”

3. If an employee or student is a victim or a witness to any violent or criminal behavior on campus, avoid risk. Promptly call the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone and report the incident, including the following:

A. WHERE the emergency situation is. Start with the telephone number, the name of the residence hall, the floor, and the room number.

B. WHO you are and the name of the person in need of assistance.

C. HOW many people need assistance.

D. WHAT happened. Describe the nature of the incident and the nature of any injuries.

E. WHAT is being done of the person(s) in need of help

4. The employee or student should assist the Campus Safety Officer when he or she arrives by giving the complete information and asking others to cooperate and provide information.

5. The Department of Campus Safety will:

A. Notify members of the Incident Management Team as appropriate.

B. Investigate the report as needed.

C. Direct the evacuation of the affected area as necessary.

D. Notify the Winona City Police Department at 507-457-6302 as appropriate.

E. Contact the Wellness Center for initial provision of health services as needed.

6. If gunfire or discharged explosives are involved in an incident, take cover immediately, using all available cover and concealment. After the incident, seek emergency first aid if necessary.

7. Counseling Services will assess the counseling needs of victim(s) or witness(es) and respond as needed.

8. Campus Ministry will provide or arrange for spiritual/ministerial counseling as requested

Hostage Witness

1. If the hostage taker is unaware of your presence, do not intervene.

2. Call the Winona Police Department immediately by calling 911 first and the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone next. Be prepared to provide the following information:

A. Description of the hostage taker(s)

B. Location of the incident

C. Number of hostages (if known)

D. Reason for the hostage taking (if known)

E. Injuries to hostages (if known)

Stay on the phone with the police dispatcher if safe to do so.

3. Do not enter the hostage scene and advise others not to enter the area.

4. Follow police directions upon arrival at the scene.

Violent Behavior: Weapons on Campus
1. If a weapon on campus is observed, immediately call 911. Then call Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone.

2. Wait for the police to arrive.

3. Do not confront the person with the weapon.

4. Do not make any effort to intervene.

5. If known, provide the following information to the police:

A. Name of individual(s) with the weapon(s)

B. Location of individual(s) with the weapon(s)

C. What individual(s) did with weapon after it was displayed.

Violent Behavior on Campus: Active Shooter
1. If shots are fired, notify the Winona Police Department immediately by calling 911 first and the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone next. Be prepared to provide the following information:

A. Location of the active shooter

B. Number of shooters, if more than one

C. Physical description of shooter/s

D. Number and type of weapons held by the shooter/s

E. Number of potential victims at the location

F. Stay on the phone with the police dispatcher if safe to do so.

2. If shooting is occurring outside, go inside a building as soon as possible. Otherwise, take cover and get as compact as possible. Put something between yourself and the shooter.

3. If shots have been fired inside a building, quickly determine the most reasonable way to protect your own life. Remember that students and visitors are likely to follow the lead of employees and managers during an active shooter situation.

A. Evacuate. If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to evacuate the premises. Be sure to:

• Have an escape route and plan in mind
• Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow
• Leave your belongings behind
• Help others escape, if possible
• Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active shooter may be
• Keep your hands visible
• Follow the instructions of any police officers
• Do not attempt to move wounded people
• Call 911 when you are safe

B. Hide out. If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide where the active shooter is less likely to find you. Your hiding place should:

• Be out of the active shooter’s view
• Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction (i.e., an office with a closed and locked door)
• Not trap you or restrict your options for movement

To prevent an active shooter from entering your hiding place:

• Lock the door
• Blockade the door with heavy furniture

If the active shooter is nearby:

• Lock the door
• Silence your cell phone and/or pager
• Turn off any source of noise (i.e., radios, televisions)
• Hide behind large items (i.e., cabinets, desks)
• Remain quiet

If evacuation and hiding out are not possible:

• Remain calm
• Dial 911, if possible, to alert police to the active shooter’s location
• If you cannot speak, leave the line open and allow the dispatcher to listen

C. Take action against the active shooter. As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the active shooter by:

• Acting as aggressively as possible against him/her
• Throwing items and improvising weapons
• Yelling
• Committing to your actions

4. When law enforcement arrives. its purpose is to stop the active shooter as soon as possible. Officers will proceed directly to the area in which the last shots were heard. Officers usually arrive in teams of four (4). Officers may wear regular patrol uniforms or external bulletproof vests, Kevlar helmets, and other tactical equipment. Officers may be armed with rifles, shotguns, handguns. Officers may use pepper spray or tear gas to control the situation. Officers may shout commands, and may push individuals to the ground for their safety.

How to react when law enforcement arrives:

• Remain calm, and follow officers’ instructions
• Put down any items in your hands (i.e., bags, jackets)
• Immediately raise hands and spread fingers
• Keep hands visible at all times
• Avoid making quick movements toward officers such as holding on to them for safety
• Avoid pointing, screaming and/or yelling
• Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating, just proceed in the direction from which officers are entering the premises

The first officers to arrive to the scene will not stop to help injured persons. Expect rescue teams comprised of additional officers and emergency medical personnel to follow the initial officers. These rescue teams will treat and remove any injured persons. They may also call upon able-bodied individuals to assist in removing the wounded from the premises.

Once you have reached a safe location or an assembly point, you will likely be held in that area by law enforcement until the situation is under control, and all witnesses have been identified and questioned. Do not leave until law enforcement authorities have instructed you to do so.

Violent Behavior: Taken Hostage
1. Be patient. Avoid drastic action.

2. The initial 45 minutes are the most dangerous. Follow instructions, be alert and stay alive. The captor is emotionally imbalanced. Don’t make mistakes which could be a hazard to well-being.

3. Don’t speak unless spoken to and then only when necessary. Don’t talk down to the captor who may be in an agitated state. Avoid appearing hostile. Maintain eye contact at all time if possible, but do not stare. Treat the captor like royalty.

4. Try to rest. Avoid speculating. Comply with instructions as best as possible. Avoid arguments. Expect the unexpected.

5. Be observant. The personal safety of others may depend on the hostage’s memory.

6. Be prepared to answer the police on the telephone. Be patient, wait. Attempt to establish rapport with the captor. If medications, first aid, or restroom privileges are needed by anyone, say so. The captors in all probability do not want to harm persons held by them. Such direct actions further implicate the captor in additional offenses.

Violent Behavior: Hostage Witness
1. If the hostage taker is unaware of your presence, do not intervene.

2. Call the Winona Police Department immediately by calling 911 first and the Department of Campus Safety at 1703 from a University telephone or 507-457-1703 from a private or personal telephone next. Be prepared to provide the following information:

A. Description of the hostage taker(s)

B. Location of the incident

C. Number of hostages (if known)

D. Reason for the hostage taking (if known)

E. Injuries to hostages (if known)

Stay on the phone with the police dispatcher if safe to do so.

3. Do not enter the hostage scene and advise others not to enter the area.

4. Follow police directions upon arrival at the scene.