Allen University Campus Safety Guidelines

Emergency Response Plan for Fire and Bomb Threats

Table of Contents

  1. Fire Safety Measures

  2. Bomb Threat Protocols

Section 1: Fire Safety Measures

Overview

The risk of a fire occurring on the Allen University campus is ever-present, and it's essential to be well-prepared for such emergencies. Understanding the distinctions between minor and major fires, and the immediate actions needed, can save lives and property.

Types of Fires

  • Minor Fires: Can be extinguished with a fire extinguisher.

  • Major Fires: Require the intervention of the Columbia Fire Department.

In either case, remain calm and act quickly.

If You Suspect a Fire

  • Immediate Actions

    1. Contact the Campus Police Department at 803-223-4544. Provide details about what you've observed and your exact location.

    2. Alert nearby building occupants and assist with evacuation, especially for individuals with handicaps.

    3. Wait outside the building for the arrival of the Campus Police and/or Columbia Fire Department. Have additional information ready for responding personnel.

If You See Flames

  • Immediate Actions

    1. Activate the closest fire alarm and proceed to the nearest fire extinguisher, following operational instructions to use it. Dial 911.

    2. If the fire grows out of control or appears too large, exit the area and call for help.

    3. Evacuate the building, call 911, and report the fire. Follow dispatcher instructions and stay on the line until released.

    4. Contact Campus Police at 803-223-4544, providing the location of the fire, and stay on the line until released.

Fire Evacuation Procedures

  • If You Hear an Alarm

    1. Evacuate the building, assisting handicapped individuals.

    2. Keep low if there's smoke.

    3. Feel the door before opening. Do not open if hot.

    4. Proceed with caution if the door is cool.

    5. If corridors are smoky or hot, stay in the room and follow emergency sealing procedures.

    6. Use clothing or tape to seal door cracks.

    7. Signal for help from windows.

    8. Always use stairs and not elevators.

    9. Find an alternative exit if the nearest is blocked.

    10. Do not re-enter the building until cleared by officials.

Arson

If arson is suspected, contact the Columbia Fire Department immediately and preserve the area until their arrival.

Section II: Bomb Threat Protocols

Purpose

Due to the significant risk associated with bomb threats, Allen University has developed comprehensive protocols. The goals are to secure occupants, minimize anxiety, reduce disruption, and protect property.

If You Receive a Bomb Threat

Immediate Actions

  1. Stay calm. Note the date and time.

  2. Engage the caller to gather as much information as possible.

  3. Record the caller’s statements and ask specific questions about the bomb.

  4. Note any distinct characteristics of the caller and background noise.

  5. Once the call ends, contact the Director of Campus Police immediately.

The Search

The regular occupants of the building are best suited for identifying suspicious objects. Do not touch or move any such objects; instead, report them to authorities immediately.

Evacuation

  • Evacuation Authorization: The order to evacuate can be issued by anyone who identifies a suspicious object.

  • Alerting Occupants: Use the fire alarm as the primary method to alert building occupants about the need for evacuation.

  • Assisting Disabled Individuals: Make sure to assist disabled persons in exiting the building.

  • Avoid Using Elevators: In the context of fire, elevators must not be used for evacuation.

  • Stay Calm: Avoid panic during the evacuation process.

  • Use of Fire Escape Routes: Utilize designated fire escape routes for an organized evacuation.

  • Route Reassessment: If a suspicious object is identified near an escape route, reroute the evacuation path as required.

  • Door Protocol: Keep all doors open when exiting the area to facilitate evacuation and minimize smoke accumulation.

  • Safe Distance: Once outside, move as far away from the threatened building as feasible.

  • Inclement Weather: If the weather is unfavorable, take shelter in locations specified by the Campus Police.

  • Vehicle Restrictions: Do not move automobiles parked near the building during the ongoing threat.

  • Re-entry: Wait for clearance from the Director of Campus Police or their authorized representative before re-entering the building.


    This document aims to serve as a comprehensive guide for how to act in the event of fires or bomb threats on the Allen University campus. For additional information or to address any concerns, please contact the Campus Police Department.