Evacuation Protocols

An evacuation protocol exists in the event that a residence hall must be evacuated for an extended period of time. The evacuations of buildings are rare occurrences, but understanding what each person needs to do provides a mechanism for a smoother transition during an emergency. The following are things you need to know to assist with a smooth evacuation

• In any given situation where a building is deemed uninhabitable for an extended period of time by the Director of Facilities, ranking officer of Campus Police, Director of Residence Life and/or Shepherdstown Fire Department member, the occupants/residents will need to be evacuated.
• When a building must be evacuated, follow the directives of campus officials including those from Campus Police, Student Affairs, Residence Life, and Facilities Management. In many cases, the Shepherdstown Fire Department will also be providing directives. The fire department is in charge when on the scene of an incident.
• Report directly to the Student Center Storer Ballroom to check in with full-time staff and to receive additional information and directions. You are not required to stay in the Student Center after you have identified yourself and your plans while your building is evacuated.
• The University’s main extension (304-876-5000) will have a brief message notifying callers of the incident and to report to the Student Center Storer Ballroom for updated information and assistance.
• The Student Center will have telephone lines and some staff will have cell phones for students to contact parents/emergency contact, if necessary.
• Should the Dining Hall be evacuated and uninhabitable, food service will be operational in the Student Center only.
• Staff in the Student Center will keep students and others abreast of the situation and students will be notified when the building has been cleared for re-entry.