In an emergency, call now.

Campus Safety Guidelines

Stay calm. Act fast. Know what to do.

Allen’s emergency response plan for fires and bomb threats. Read it now, so you’re ready if it ever matters.

Section 1Fire safetySuspected fires, flames, alarms, and arson Section 2Bomb threatsReceiving a threat, searching, and evacuating
Section 1

Fire safety

The risk of fire is ever-present. Knowing the difference between a minor and major fire, and what to do right away, can save lives and property. In either case, remain calm and act quickly.

Minor fireCan be put out with a fire extinguisher.
Major fireRequires the Columbia Fire Department.

If you suspect a fire

  1. Call Campus Police at 803-223-4544. Describe what you’ve observed and your exact location.
  2. Alert people nearby and help them evacuate, especially individuals with disabilities.
  3. Wait outside for Campus Police or the Columbia Fire Department, with details ready to share.

If you see flames

  1. Pull the closest fire alarm, then go to the nearest fire extinguisher and follow its instructions. Dial 911.
  2. If the fire grows or seems too large, leave the area and call for help.
  3. Evacuate, call 911, and report the fire. Follow the dispatcher and stay on the line until released.
  4. Call Campus Police at 803-223-4544 with the fire’s location, and stay on the line until released.

If you hear an alarm

  1. Evacuate, and help individuals with disabilities.
  2. Stay low if there’s smoke.
  3. Feel the door before opening it. Do not open it if it’s hot.
  4. If the door is cool, proceed with caution.
  5. If hallways are smoky or hot, stay in the room.
  6. Seal door cracks with clothing or tape.
  7. Signal for help from a window.
  8. Always use the stairs, never elevators.
  9. If the nearest exit is blocked, find another.
  10. Do not re-enter until officials say it’s safe.

Suspected arson

Contact the Columbia Fire Department immediately, and keep the area undisturbed until they arrive.

Section 2

Bomb threats

Allen’s bomb threat protocols are designed to keep people safe, reduce anxiety and disruption, and protect property.

If you receive a bomb threat

  1. Stay calm. Note the date and time.
  2. Keep the caller talking to gather as much information as possible.
  3. Write down what the caller says, and ask specific questions about the bomb.
  4. Note anything distinct about the caller’s voice and any background noise.
  5. When the call ends, contact the Director of Campus Police immediately at 803-223-4544.

Searching the building

The people who use a building every day are best at spotting something out of place.

Do not touch or move a suspicious object. Report it to authorities immediately.

Evacuating

  • Anyone who finds a suspicious object can order an evacuation.
  • Use the fire alarm to alert everyone in the building.
  • Help individuals with disabilities get out.
  • Do not use elevators.
  • Stay calm and avoid panic.
  • Use the designated fire escape routes.
  • If a suspicious object is near an exit route, take another route.
  • Leave doors open as you exit.
  • Once outside, move as far from the building as you can.
  • In bad weather, shelter where Campus Police directs.
  • Do not move cars parked near the building.
  • Wait for the Director of Campus Police, or their representative, to clear re-entry.

Questions or concerns?

Contact the Allen University Campus Police Department.

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