Campus Safety

Command Post (CP): The command post is where the Incident Commander runs the overall operations during the duration of a critical event or emergency. CP is different from the EOC defined below. The location of the CP is determined by the police or fire officer in charge of the incident.

If the power to the campus is lost, emergency generators will activate in approximately 10 seconds. The generator will provide emergency lighting to allow everyone to go to a lighted area of the campus. The administration will evaluate the situation and determine the proper course of action regarding class schedules.

In the event of a report of an armed intruder or active shooter (someone armed and shooting a firearm) an immediate notification will be made in “plain talk” language over the PA system and an alert will be broadcast over the RCC Notifier Network Computer System.

In the event of a hazardous material, biological or chemical agent release in the vicinity of the campus, a shelter in place order will be given. Atmospheric conditions outside the building may be dangerous. The HVAC system should be deactivated to prevent contamination of the inside air supply. No one should leave the building until an “all clear” or secure message is broadcast over the PA system.

Evacuation of the building can be done by utilizing the fire alarm. The fire alarm may sound automatically when smoke or heat is detected. The system may also be manually activated at pull stations throughout the building. The fire alarm may be ordered for instances of fire, hazardous material release, bomb threat or active shooter. In any event, if the fire alarm sounds, everyone must exit the building by the nearest door.

In the event of a possible suicide/homicide bomber on campus all personnel shall evacuate the immediate area. Campus wide notifications will be made. No one is to approach the suspect. Negotiation with or containment of the suspect is not recommended. If it can be safely done, the suspect should be observed and monitored from a distance until police arrive.

In the event a bomb threat is received at Richland, the crisis response team will meet immediately and analyze the threat. Credible threats will result in an evacuation of the building. Safety and Security should be notified immediately followed by a call to 911. In the event a written or verbal threat is received Safety and Security should be notified immediately. No threat should go unreported.

Severe weather can occur at any time during the year. Richland makes use of NOAA weather radios and National Weather Service Doppler radar to monitor storm threats. Most common threat to the campus will involve a tornado warning. Richland will make an immediate notification via the campus PA systems in the event a tornado threatens the campus. Standard weather response will be enacted as described on Emergency Procedures posted near doors in all rooms on campus. Remember to stay clear of glass windows and high ceilings like in Schrodt and Andreas Centers.

All personnel (faculty, staff and students) should remain calm in any emergency. Panic leads to injury and destruction of property. Prioritize and keep radio traffic brief and to the point. Use plain talk on the radio, no ten codes. Any lengthy verbal statements should be made via telephone. Assist with shelter in place or evacuation if you are able. If you don’t need to be on your cell phone, keep the cells clear.

Procedures have been established for the following emergencies: