Important Contacts Call 911 to report any emergency Non-Emergency Assistance 269-782-1234 Campus Security 269-782-2194 Building and Grounds 269-782-1383 Dowagiac Police Department 269-782-6689 Cass County Sheriff s Office 269-445-1560 Michigan State Police 269-683-4411 Computer Services 269-782-1233 Media Relations 269-782-1457 Southwestern Michigan College Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan Southwestern Michigan College 2016-2017
Contents Introduction and Purpose... 2 Goals... 2 Applicability and Scope... 2 Responsibility... 2 Order of Succession... 2 Emergency Operation Center Activation... 3 Emergency Communications... 3 Media Inquiries... 3 Emergency Protocols... 4 Fire and Evacuation... 4 Medical Emergency... 6 Bomb Threat... 7 Hostile Intruder/Active Shooter... 9 Utility Failure and Natural Disaster... 12 Severe Weather... 13 Earthquakes... 16 Shelter in Place/Safe Shelter... 17 Suspicious Package or Object... 18 Appendix A... 19 Public Weather Warning System Operation... 19 Appendix B... 20 Bomb Threat Checklist... 20 1
Introduction and Purpose Southwestern Michigan College is committed to the safety and well-being of its staff, students and guests. Upholding this commitment requires planning and practice. This plan exists to satisfy those needs and to outline the steps to be taken to prepare for and respond to an emergency affecting the department or the College. Goals The goals of Southwestern Michigan College in responding to an emergency situation include: The safety of all staff, students, and guests. The physical and emotional well-being of staff, students, and guests. The timely stabilization of an emergency situation. The protection of Southwestern Michigan College facility, property, and the belongings of staff, students, and guests. Applicability and Scope This plan applies to all employees of Southwestern Michigan College and any person occupying the physical plant of Southwestern Michigan College; to include students, employees, and guests. The scope of this plan is intended to encompass all hazards. This plan may be consulted when responding to any and all emergencies. When encountering a situation which has not been expressly addressed in this plan, use good judgment and the guiding principles outlined below. Responsibility The Southwestern Michigan College emergency plan is the responsibility of Office of Chief of Staff. The Chief of Staff will review and update this plan at least once annually. Revisions will be made as needed throughout the year. Any suggestions, comments, or questions should be directed to the Chief of Staff. Order of Succession Leadership authority during an emergency shall flow downward through the following list of people: 1. Dr. David Mathews-President 2. Thomas Atkinson-Chief of Staff 3. Dr. David Fleming -Vice President of Instruction 2
Emergency Operation Center Activation The Chief Of Staff Suite in the Second Floor of the Briegel Building is the designated location of the primary Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for the college. The EOC will be activated upon a directive of the President, the Chief of Staff or their designee. Upon activation of the EOC all members of the Cabinet and Security Office will report to that location to assist in it operation. If the primary EOC is not available these members shall report to the Alumni Plaza which will be the designated Rally Point to make a determination as to the location of the secondary EOC. Emergency Communications Means and Methods Emergency Notification System (RAVE) For Campus Wide Announcements In all but extreme emergency situations, the President or designee shall direct and authorize the use of the emergency notifications system. In extreme emergency situations (i.e. life threatening conditions) designated personnel shall have specific authority to operate the Emergency Notification system. Designated personnel shall include the Chief of Staff and trained Security, Housing & Computer Services staff. Landline Telephones Cell Phones & Text Two-way Radios Email Fire Alarm Boxes Outside Public Address and Weather Siren The Weather Siren primary activator is the Dowagiac Department of Public Safety or Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indian Tribe. (See Appendix A) Designated SMC staff may also activate the Siren and Public Address speaker in life threatening emergencies Media Inquiries Inquiries from the media during or after an emergency will be addressed by the Coordinator of Media Relations. The President &/or Chief Of Staff will be consulted in releasing any information to the media. At any time the media can simply be referred to the Coordinator of Media Relations. 3
Emergency Protocols Fire and Evacuation In the event that you discover a fire or smell smoke you should immediately activate the fire alarm system to alert the occupants of the building of the situation. All persons should cease all operations and exit in an orderly fashion. Special attention should be given to individuals with disabilities in assisting them with relocating to an area of refuge. All administrative and housing buildings on the SMC campus are equipped with automatic smoke detectors. In the event that a fire alarm system activates please begin evacuation efforts. Fire extinguishers are distributed throughout all buildings on campus. To access a fire extinguisher cabinet simply pull on the handle to open. Do not use fire extinguishers unless the fire is approximately the size of a waste basket and you feel confident in your ability to use the extinguisher. Persons should always keep themselves between the fire and an exit. To use the fire extinguisher simply use the PASS method: P Pull the pin A Aim the nozzle S Squeeze the handle S Sweep at the base of the fire When a FIRE ALARM sounds: R Report the fire immediately. A Activate the building fire alarm. C Contain by closing all doors to confine the fire and reduce oxygen. E Extinguish by knowing the location of fire extinguishers and how to use them. 1. Do not panic. In an orderly manner, walk to the nearest FIRE EXIT and go outside. 2. Know at least two ways out of the area you are in. 3. If you are not on the ground floor, head for the nearest stairwell. 4. Never use an elevator during an emergency. 5. Assist handicapped or the injured to an area of refuge. 6. Do not block the driveway or try to leave in your car. The Fire Department will be arriving within minutes and will need a clear path to the building. 7. Gather with students/employees in your group, so it is easier to determine whether anyone is missing. 8. Wait for instructions from Police, the Fire Department or a member of campus administration about when it is safe to re-enter the building. 4
NOTE: If you become trapped in a building during a fire immediately call 911 or see if a window is available. Place an article of clothing (shirt, coat, etc.) or sheet outside the window as a marker for rescue crews. If there is no 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. Building Evacuation You should familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes posted in all campus buildings. If an evacuation order is issued for your building, or if it were necessary to evacuate due to an emergency, fully cooperate with Security/emergency personnel and: Take only keys, wallets and essential belongings with you If possible wear weather appropriate clothing If you are the last one to exit your room close, and lock doors Leave the building immediately Do not investigate the source of the emergency Walk, don t run, to the nearest exit Use stairs, not elevators Assist people with special needs If there is no immediate danger, persons with disability/mobility limitations should shelter in place and 911 and Security (269) 782-1234 to report location and number of people needing assistance If there is imminent danger and evacuation cannot be delayed, the person with a disability should be carried or helped from the building in the best and fastest manner (the person with the disability is the best authority as to how to be moved out of the building) If you are unable to evacuate, call 911 & Security (1234) and report your location As you make your way out, encourage those you encounter to exit as well Follow instructions of Security or other identified emergency personnel Wait for instructions before returning to your building after an evacuation 5
Medical Emergency If someone is injured or becomes ill: Stay Calm Dial 911 and explain the type of emergency, the location, condition, and number of victims Let the dispatcher know of any safety hazards - chemical spill, fire, fumes, etc. Do not hang up unless told to do so by the dispatcher Contact Security @ 269-782-1234 (1234 on Dowagiac Campus Phones) Do not move the victim unless there is danger of further injury if s/he is not moved Render first-aid or CPR if you have been trained Do not leave the injured person except to summon help Comfort the victim until emergency medical services arrive Have someone stand outside the building to flag down the ambulance and/or Security when they reach the vicinity 6
Bomb Threat The presence of an explosive device and/or the reception of a bomb threat are situations that the College must be prepared to confront in a calm and professional manner. Although many bomb threats turn out to be false, they must be taken seriously to ensure the safety of the students, faculty, staff and visitors at SMC. A bomb threat could be written, received electronically (e-mail, text message), communicated verbally or received by phone. The majority of bomb threats are delivered by telephone. Generally, a bomb threat call is made for one of two reasons: 1. The caller has definite knowledge about the explosive device and wants to minimize personal injury. 2. The caller wants to disrupt normal activities by creating anxiety and panic. DO NOT evacuate immediately until police arrive and evaluate the threat. Many times it is safer to stay inside of an office or classroom where you know that there are no suspicious objects, then to expose yourself or others to an unknown environment (public accessible hallways or parking lots). DO NOT activate the fire alarm. DO NOT touch or move or make a cell phone call around a suspicious package. Move away, putting brick and mortar walls between you and the object. Threat Received By Telephone Take the caller seriously. Assume the threat is real. If the call recipient is a work study, immediately have a regular employee take the call If you have a digital phone, look for and record the originating phone number. While the caller is speaking to you on the phone, fill out the "Bomb Threat Checklist. (Appendix B) If possible, do not hang up the phone. Have a co-worker call 911 and then Campus Security. If you are alone, call immediately after hanging up. Wait for the police to arrive and do not spread alarm while waiting Make every attempt to: Stay calm and indicate your desire to cooperate with the caller. DO NOT antagonize, interrupt or challenge the caller. Obtain as much information as possible. Prolong the conversation as long as possible. Ask permission to repeat any instructions to make sure they were understood. Attempt to determine the caller's knowledge of the facility. Identify background noises. Contact your Building Administrator. 7
Insure that the "Bomb Threat Checklist is completed. If directed to evacuate, follow building evacuation procedures. Threat Received by E-Mail / Text Message DO NOT delete the e-mail/text message. Call Campus Security at 269 782-1234 Forward the e-mail as directed by Campus Safety. Contact your Building Administrator. If directed to evacuate, follow building evacuation procedures. Threat By Mail Call Campus Safety @ 269 782-1234 or 911 Handle mail as minimally as possible. Contact your Building Administrator. If directed to evacuate, follow building evacuation procedures. Threat By Handwritten Note Call Campus Safety @ 269 782-1234 or 911 Handle note as minimally as possible. Contact the Building Administrator. If directed to evacuate, follow building evacuation procedures. 8
Hostile Intruder/Active Shooter If a hostile intruder/active shooter is Outside your building: Get to a room that can be locked; close and lock windows and doors Turn off the lights Try to get everyone down on the floor (so that no one is visible from outside the room) Call 911. The Dispatcher will ask for, at least, the following information: a. Your name b. Location of the incident (be as specific as possible) c. Number of shooters (if known) d. Identification or description of shooter e. Number of persons who may be involved f. Your location Stay in place (calls to come out may be the attacker attempting to lure you) Do not respond to any voice commands until you are sure that they come from a Police Officer or a Campus Security Officer If a hostile intruder/active shooter is INSIDE your building: Exit (get out of) the building immediately Notify anyone you may encounter to exit the building immediately Call 911. The Dispatcher will ask for at least the following information: a. Your name b. Location of the incident (be as specific as possible) c. Number of shooters (if known) d. Identification or description of shooter e. Number of persons who may be involved f. Your location 9
If exiting the building is not possible, the following actions are recommended: Go to the nearest room or office If you are locked out of all rooms, seek refuge in the nearest restroom or closet, lock yourself in if possible, keep quiet and be prepared to defend yourself Close and lock the door and/or block it (try barricading the door with desks and chairs) Cover the door windows Call 911 (the Dispatcher will gather information from you) Keep quiet and act as if no one is in the room (silence cell phones) DO NOT answer the door Stay in place (calls from unfamiliar voices to come out may be the attacker attempting to lure you) Do not respond to any voice commands until you are sure that they come from a Police Officer or a Campus Security Officer If a hostile intruder/active shooter enters your office or classroom: 1. Try to escape, but if unable, you must take action to survive!! Make a quick survival decision, either: Try to overpower the hostile intruder/active shooter by force (use anything at your disposal and fight for your life); If someone other than yourself acts to overpower the hostile intruder/active shooter it is recommended that you assist, as this will increase the chances of success and survival. Other (usually less effective) Options Try to hide; bear in mind that being hidden (i.e. behind a wooden door or dry walled room) is not the same as being covered (i.e. behind a steel door), Try to negotiate with the hostile intruder/active shooter (usually the least effective measure), Play dead (pretend to be unconscious) If the hostile intruder/active shooter leaves your area, and as soon as it is safe to do so: If you can, escape, going in the opposite direction of the intruder Close and lock the door and/or block it (try barricading the door with desks and chairs) Call 911 (if not on the line already) DO NOT answer the door and stay in place behind cover Do not respond to any voice commands until you are sure that they come from a Law Enforcement Officer or a Campus Security Officer 10
If you decide to flee during a hostile intruder/active shooter situation: No matter what the circumstances, make sure you have an escape route and plan in mind Do not attempt to carry anything while fleeing Do not attempt to remove injured people (leave wounded victims where they are and notify authorities of their location as soon as possible) Move quickly, keep your hands up high and visible Follow the instructions of any Police Officers you may encounter What to expect from responding police officers: Law Enforcement Officers responding to an active shooter are trained in a procedure known as "Rapid Deployment" and proceed immediately to the area in which shots were last heard. Their purpose is to stop the shooting as quickly as possible. The first officers to arrive will not stop to aid injured people; rescue teams composed of other officers and emergency medical personnel will follow the first officers after areas have been secured to treat and remove injured persons. Please understand that the police will be treating all those they encounter (including you) as possible suspects. When you encounter the police: Remain calm Do as the officers tell you Put down any bags or packages you may be carrying Keep your hands up, empty (no cell phones or objects that can be mistaken as a weapon) and visible at all times If you know where the hostile intruder/active shooter is, tell the officers Once out of harm s way remain at whatever assembly point authorities designate Keep in mind that the entire area is still a crime scene; police will usually not let anyone leave until the situation is fully under control and all witnesses have been identified and questioned Do not leave until you have been interviewed and released 11
Utility Failure and Natural Disaster Utility Failures These may include electrical outages, plumbing failure/flooding, gas leaks, steam line breaks, ventilation problems, elevator failures, etc. Building and Grounds has procedures and personnel to deal with utility failures and resumption of service. For your personal safety, in the event of a utility failure: Remain calm Immediately notify Security at 269-782-1234 (1234 from Campus phones) If the building must be evacuated, follow the instructions on Building Evacuation Unplug all electrical equipment (including computers) and turn off light switches Use a flashlight: Do not light candles or use other kinds of flames for lighting Laboratory personnel: - Secure all experiments, unplug electrical equipment, and shut off research gases prior to evacuating - Close all fume hoods and chemical containers Elevators: - If passengers are trapped in an elevator, advise them to stay calm and tell them you are getting help - If it is safe for you to stay in the building, stay near the passengers until assistance arrives If you are trapped in an elevator, help will be there soon: - Remain calm - Use the Call Button of Phone to call for help - Do not try to climb out or exit the elevator without assistance 12
Severe Weather PURPOSE The purpose of this Severe Weather Plan is to provide a course of action to be used during severe weather events such as tornadoes, thunderstorms and winter storms to minimize the potential for injury and loss of life that can result during severe weather. This plan should be reviewed at least annually by all employees and building administrators to ensure that everyone knows where the severe weather shelter areas are and what to do when the severe weather warning systems are activated. Severe Thunderstorm Watch A severe thunderstorm watch means weather conditions are such that a severe thunderstorm could develop but has not at this time. Persons should remain alert for the potential of severe weather. Severe Thunderstorm Warning A severe thunderstorm warning means a severe thunderstorm has developed and will probably affect those areas stated in the alert message. Persons should seek cover immediately. If the warning includes a damaging winds warning (in excess of 70 mph) then persons should follow the Tornado Warning guidelines. Tornado Watch A Tornado watch will be issued when weather conditions are such that a Tornado could develop. Persons should remain alert for the potential for severe weather. Tornado Warning/ Dangerous Winds Warning When a tornado warning is issued this means a tornado has formed and was indicated by weather radar or sighted, and may affect those areas stated in the alert. This warning will trigger the weather siren and alerts from the National Weather Service. These procedures may also be used when a weather event with at least 70 mph winds is likely. All persons should go to their building's designated shelter area. Persons should monitor for additional warnings. Those persons identified shall activate the Emergency Notification (RAVE) system alerting all of the SMC community. All persons located outdoors should seek shelter indoors immediately. If shelter is not available go to the lowest spot/ditch/culvert, kneel and cover your head with your arms. 13
Exterior doors should not be opened. Under no circumstances should persons leave buildings during a Tornado warning. During a tornado warning, persons should take one of two positions -- the preferred position is kneeling with their head between their knees facing the wall, and the other is, seated on the floor with their backs to the wall. In either case, they should be as low as possible to reduce their potential for injuries from flying missiles or glass or debris. If available, some form of covering should be used to protect heads, arms, and legs. Building occupants should remain in the shelter area for at least that long unless a new warning is issued and the sirens activate again, or the National Weather Service issues a release. Remain alert for information. Remember, you typically have only three minutes to reach a shelter so do not delay. Waiting can mean the difference between life and death. Persons in the shelter should tune to local radio stations, their severe weather radio, and/or internet warning systems for additional information. At the notice of an all clear, persons responsible for operating the Emergency Notification (RAVE) System shall issue an ALL CLEAR alert. Once leaving the shelter area all persons should be aware of other safety hazards including broken glass and sharp and unstable objects as well as downed power lines. At this time persons should render emergency aid as needed. Winter Storm Winter Storms could affect the entire county at the same time. This type of emergency poses a difficult response effort because of road conditions, which impede or prohibit vehicle movement. Even areas that normally experience mild winters can be hit with a major snowstorm or extreme cold weather. Winter storms can result in closed highways, blocked roads, downed power lines and hypothermia. In the event severe weather such as ice and snow are imminent, college officials will monitor weather conditions. In the event of an overnight winter/severe storm the Chief of Staff monitors current conditions, contacts local county officials and the forecast from the National Weather Service and advises the President regarding road conditions. Decision to Close or alter College Schedule The President will decide whether to maintain the normal schedule, delay the normal opening time, or close the College until conditions are safer. The President may delegate this task to the Chief of Staff or other personnel. If the President or designee alters the schedule or opts to close the college, they will notify the SMC community via the Emergency Notification (RAVE) System as well as through local media, the college website and through the established college phone trees. 14
Warning Points The Dowagiac Department of Public Safety is the 24 hour point of warning and notification for Southwestern Michigan College. They shall notify via weather siren any weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service. In addition to this warning point: Weather Spotter Activation The college has established automated warning systems via their Emergency Notification System upon certain weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Security Personnel shall be the primary personnel that will monitor weather conditions on campus by using tools that are in place including NWS weather radios, local media and internet solutions. Housing Managers, as they are on campus 24/7, shall also monitor conditions when alerted by the same systems (NWS radio, Local media, Weather Sirens and Internet). Weather Spotters are individuals trained by the National Weather Service (NWS) to physically look for and report hazardous weather. When weather spotters are needed, the National Weather Service will alert Weather Spotters directly or the County Emergency Manager and request the activation of the weather spotters. Weather Spotters that are activated shall communicate their findings via the Cass County Emergency Operations Center, Cass County Central Dispatch or directly to the NWS through established channels. Reporting Damage to the National Weather Service Basic storm damage reports from observers on the ground will be provided to the National Weather Service in real time to ensure that all relevant information to forecasting is available. Weather spotter personnel and emergency responders will provide preliminary damage reports from the field to Cass County Central Dispatch. The information provided will be passed on to the National Weather Service via established communication channels. 15
Earthquakes Earthquakes are more common in the western United States, but they have occurred in the Michiana area as well. In the event of an earthquake: Stay away from large windows, shelving systems, or tall room partitions Get under a desk, table, door arch, or stairwell If none of these is available: move against an interior wall and cover your head with your arms Remain under cover until the movement subsides After the shaking stops, survey your immediate area for trapped or injured persons and ruptured utilities (water, gas, etc.) If damage has occurred in your area, inform Security immediately at 269-782-1234 (1234 from Campus phones) If it is safe to do so, remain at your location and await further instructions from College personnel Do not evacuate until instructed by emergency personnel Laboratory personnel: - Exit the lab to the corridor - Duck and cover near an interior wall If out in the open: - Stay in an open area away from buildings, power lines, trees or roadways - If in a car, pull over and stop. Do not park under an overpass or near a building. Be cautious about driving again, in the event roads are damaged After an earthquake: - Put on enclosed shoes to protect against broken glass - If the power is out use a flashlight. Do not light a match or candle - Be alert for safety hazards such as fire, electrical wires, gas leaks, etc. - Check on others. If there are injuries or other urgent problems, report them to 911 -- - Give or seek first aid. Assist any disabled persons in finding a safe place for them - Evacuate if the building seems unsafe or if instructed to do so: - Use stairs, not elevators - Unplug small electrical appliances - Bring keys, purses, wallets, warm clothing - Be prepared for aftershocks - Cooperate with emergency personnel, keep informed, and remain calm 16
Shelter in Place/Safe Shelter Shelter in Place is useful when evacuation is not an option. Refuge is sought in an interior room with few or no windows. It may be necessary to shelter in place following the intentional or accidental release of chemical, biological, or radiological contaminants into the environment. Shelter in place may also be necessary in the event of a hostile intruder on campus. Shelter in place procedures will be initiated through the various notification systems used by SMC. Stop classes and/or other operations in the building. If there are visitors in the building, provide for their safety by asking them to stay not leave. When public safety officials provide directions to shelter in place, they want everyone to take those steps immediately, where they are. Close and lock all doors, windows, and other openings to the outside. If necessary/possible, turn off power to the building. Select interior room(s) above the ground floor with the fewest windows and vents. The room(s) should be large enough for everyone to sit comfortably and quietly. Use multiple rooms if necessary. Lock the door to any rooms being used and draw the curtains/shades or cover the windows. You should not be visible from the outside or from the corridor. Ideally, choose room(s) with hardwired telephones as cellular networks may be unavailable. Use these phones to report any emergencies. Stay away from windows and doors. In the event of a hostile intruder, remain absolutely quiet and follow steps outlined in the Hostile Intruder/Active Shooter section. Remain calm and await further instructions. DO NOT leave the room until directed to do so by a public safety official. 17
Suspicious Package or Object If you have any reason to believe that a letter or parcel is suspicious, DO NOT take a chance or worry about embarrassment. Call Security immediately at 269-782-1234 or 911. DO NOT touch the package or object. DO NOT tamper with the package or object. DO NOT attempt to move the package or object. DO NOT open the package or object. DO NOT put the package or object in water or an enclosed space, such as a drawer or box. Isolate the package or object and evacuate the immediate area. Characteristics of Suspicious Packages Special deliveries, foreign mail, or air mail. Restrictive markings such as Confidential or Personal. Excessive postage. Handwritten or poorly typed addresses. Incorrect titles. Misspelled words. Stains or discoloration on the package. Excessive weight. Rigid, lopsided, or uneven envelopes. Protruding wires or aluminum foil. Excessive tape or string. Visual distractions such as illustrations. No return address. 18
Appendix A Public Weather Warning System Operation 19
Appendix B Bomb Threat Checklist 20