Emergency Quick Reference Guide
Howard Community College has developed three basic protocols to respond to all emergencies and protect the life and well-being of the college community.
In case of an emergency call Public Safety 5555, or use emergency phones or if in immediate threat call 911
1. Evacuation: Fire – Smoke – Bomb Threat
- Notification will typically be via the fire alarm.
- Assist in alerting others in the vicinity, but do not jeopardize your safety or the safety of others.
- Leave buildings immediately using nearest exists/stairways; remain alert for emergency communications.
- If applicable, assist disabled on upper floors to designated wheelchair assembly areas.
- In case of fire, do not use elevators; otherwise, elevators can be used to evacuate.
- Proceed directly to the designated exterior assembly area (See Evacuation Routes and Assembly Areas Map).
- Do not reenter buildings under any circumstance until informed that it is safe and the all-clear is given.
2. Shelter-in-Place: Tornado (weather events) – Environmental Hazards
- Notification will be via mobile alert system, email, PA system, digital alert clocks, code blue emergency phones, building monitors, and/or emergency personnel.
- Assist in alerting others in the vicinity, but do not jeopardize your safety or the safety of others.
- Close all doors and windows to the outside if possible.
- If in laboratories, cease operations, close fume hoods in case the building ventilation systems are turned off.
- In case of tornado, move to tornado safety areas –basements, interior rooms and halls away from glass.
- If moving to safety or shelter areas, elevators can be used.
- Remain alert for emergency communications, further instructions, and the all-clear to be given.
3. Lockdown: Criminal or Violent Act – Shooter/Hostage
- Notification will be via the mobile alert system, email, PA system, digital alert clocks, code blue emergency phones, building monitors, and/or emergency personnel.
- If observing an incident on campus, call 911 first and IMMEDIATELY afterwards call Public Safety 5555.
- Assist in alerting others in the vicinity, but do not jeopardize your safety or the safety of others.
- Seek shelter in a secure room with a locking door if possible. Avoid open areas. Close, lock and move away from doors and windows. Turn off lights, remain quiet, and turn cell phones to vibrate.
- Remain alert for emergency communications and further instructions which may include staying, moving to another location, or evacuating.
- If moving to another location or evacuating, elevators can be used.
- Do not leave until instructed by emergency personnel and the all-clear is given.
For more information, contact Public Safety:
Public Safety
Emergency x5555
Non-Emergency x5500
Evacuation Routes and Assembly Areas Map
