Evacuation

Evacuation Guidelines

Emergency service units (Police Department, Fire Department, or Office of Environmental Health & Safety) may order evacuation of Mrak Hall if life or health is jeopardized.

An emergency coordinator or department head may order evacuation of the floor, building, or other areas of responsibility if, in his or her judgment, there is an immediate threat to life or health. He or she should call 9-1-1 (including cell phone) then notify the building coordinator, who will ensure that other Mrak Hall department coordinators are contacted.

If only one department or floor is evacuated, inform the building coordinator of the nature of the emergency.

Any person discovering a situation that appears to jeopardize life or health should call 9-1-1, then alert department coordinators or occupants of nearby areas so they may take the necessary actions, including evacuation.

In the event of a civil disturbance (such as a planned demonstration), the building coordinator is usually given advance notice and will advise departments as information is received. The decision to evacuate in this situation is made by the building coordinator in consultation with the Police Department. (See Section 9, Civil Disturbance)

Evacuation Procedures

Mrak Hall residents and visitors

Evacuate if the building alarm sounds, or if the department is notified by the building coordinator to evacuate.

  • If time permits, and it is safe to do so:

-Turn off your computer and monitor

-Collect your valuables and keys

-Leave lights on

-Close windows (unless the building administrator has reported a bomb scare)

-Close doors, but leave them unlocked

-Take any other measures prescribed by your departmental plan

  • Follow any special instructions given by the department coordinators.
  • Follow directions given by the department or floor coordinator.
  • Walk to the exit designated by your departmental plan, or to the alternate exit if your assigned exit is not safe. Do not use the elevator.
  • If you have visitors, take them with you.
  • If you are in another area in the building, exit with those persons.
  • Assists injured persons or persons with disabilities:
    • Ask how you can best help them. Persons who are unable to exit by the stairs can use the elevator except in case of fire or earthquake.
    •  If the elevator cannot be used, assist them (if you can) to one of the following areas until help comes:
      • Basement - Two choices: leave them in front of the elevator OR through the doors leading up the central stairs to the immediate right. This is an "Area of Refuge" since it has space without blocking the stairs, sprinklers overhead and a high fire rating.
      • 1st Floor - Evacuate out the north (back) doors since there is ramp access outside to the west (left) towards the parking lot.
      • Floors 2-5 - Leave them in front of the elevator.
    • Once outside, quickly notify the Building Coordinator or emergency personnel if injured or disabled persons are waiting for assistance and direct them to the location.
  • After exiting the building, proceed to the north side to your floor's meeting area. Remain at least 100 feet away from the building, or farther if directed by emergency personnel.
  • Remain in your assembly area for roll call. During inclement weather, your coordinator will let you know when you can proceed to shelter in Chemistry Annex.
  • Do not go to other areas of the building or reenter the building until instructed to do so by the building coordinator or emergency personnel.