Emergency Plan

Type

Procedure

Category

Health and Safety

Department

Finance & Administration

Phone

(541) 463-5558

Primary Contact

Lisa Rupp

Contact Email

Responsible Executive Authority

Vice President, Finance & Administration

Purpose

It is the purpose of this procedure to identify the types of emergencies which may occur on campus, describe the steps to take for each emergency, list members of the Emergency Planning Team.

Narrative

This plan is separated into sections according to type of incident or response. Plan contents are accurate for the LCC main campus, and notes have been added to provide guidance specific to the Mary Spilde Center (formerly Downtown Center – Academic) and Titan Court, as well as Cottage Grove and Florence Centers, KLCC, Lane Aviation Academy, and Lane Dental Clinic. For additional location-specific information, please review the paper Employee Emergency Manual, which is updated and distributed annually to each campus center by the campus Risk Management Coordinator. For more information about the Employee Emergency Manual, contact Dawn Barth at (541) 463-5503 or email barthd@lanecc.edu.  

Contents

Definitions
Introduction
Numbers to Call
Emergency Planning Team
Operational Procedures
Active Shooter
Aircraft Incidents
Bomb Threat
Communications
Timely and Immediate Notification
Criminal Activities
Demonstrations and Protests
Evacuation
Evacuation of Persons with Disabilities
Fire or Explosion
Hazardous Materials Accidents
Natural Disasters
Physical Injuries and Medical Emergencies
Psychological and Emotional Trauma
Severe Weather
Utility Failures
Violent or Threatening Behavior

Definitions

Active Shooter: An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a con?ned and populated area.

AED: Automatic External Defibrillators, or AEDs, are portable, automated devices capable of analyzing heartbeats through the chest and delivering an electric shock to reestablish a normal rhythm if necessary. AEDs are located on the main campus and at campus centers, and can be located on the map page of the Employee Emergency Manual specific to your area. All Public Safety patrol vehicles are also equipped with an AED.

Annunciator: Signal device that is activated in case of an alarm to provide visual or auditory alerts. Annunciators may include flashing lights and voice instructions in some areas.

Emergency Operations Center: A centralized location from which an incident commander can provide interagency coordination and any executive decision-making in support of the incident response.

Emergency Plan: “Emergency Plan” refers to this COPPS procedure document, which is available online to employees, students, and the general public. The Emergency Plan also includes the paper Employee Emergency Manual, which is updated annually and distributed to employees at the main campus and campus centers, and the Emergency Procedures Guide, which is used by the Emergency Planning Team.

Emergency Planning Team: Group of key individuals on campus who work to prepare for all types of potential emergencies. Individuals in the group shall act in leadership roles during emergencies, and facilitate the business continuity plan afterward an emergency occurs. All Emergency Planning Team members have significant FEMA incident command system training and experience.

Emergency Resources Guide: An in-depth reference manual used by the Emergency Planning Team to quickly locate emergency response information. Because the Emergency Procedures Guide contains private contact numbers and other sensitive information, it is only shared with members of the Emergency Planning Team and others who may be called upon to respond to an emergency on campus. The Emergency Resources Guide may also be referred to as the “red book.”

Employee Emergency Manual: A paper quick-reference document that is tailored to a specific college location and updated annually. The Employee Emergency Manual lists important information such as the location of AEDs and Evacutrac equipment, as well as evacuation routes and procedures. Manuals are updated and distributed by the Risk Management Coordinator.

Evacutrac: Equipment to assist persons with disabilities evacuate a building. Evacutracs are valuable safety tools, but misuse can cause injury. Therefore, they should only be used by those who have received appropriate training. Training is available from the Risk Management Coordinator.

Executive Director of External Affairs: The Executive Director of External Affairs, is the person charged with media communications and public information requests. During an emergency, the Executive Director of External Affairs will field media requests and communicate as appropriate on behalf of the college.

FlashAlert: FlashAlert is a service used by schools and other institutions to communicate weather closure information through a direct channel to news media organizations. FlashAlert can also be used in other types of emergencies, and is capable of using push notifications to alert subscribers within a defined geographic area.

ICS: Incident Command System, or ICS, is a standardized operational model of emergency response that shall be used on campus in the event of an emergency.

LCC Alert: LCC Alert is the LCC campus alert system capable of sending notice to students, employees, and registered community members via text message or email.

Lockdown: A lockdown involves securing the locks on a building or area of campus in response to an emergency.

MyLane: MyLane is a student and staff information portal located online.

Shelter in Place: Shelter in Place means to select an interior room or rooms within your facility, or ones with no or few windows, and take refuge there until the potential danger has passed.

Introduction

The Lane Community College Emergency Plan includes:

  1. This online document, for quick reference and general information;
  2. A paper Employee Emergency Manual distributed to all LCC employees, which provides quick reference information customized to each campus or location.
  3. A separate Emergency Resources Guide for use by the Emergency Planning Team, which contains more detailed procedures and instructions.

In the following text, where a specific position is listed, it is assumed that the designee for that position may also function in that role. Lane models the Incident Command System established by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Under ICS, the Director of Emergency Management may appoint a responder to fill an emergency role.

Employees should become thoroughly familiar with this plan and with the companion Employee Emergency Manual, particularly for events that relate to or impact an employee's work environment and safety.

Questions about this plan should be referred to the Risk Management Coordinator at 541-463-5503.

Numbers To Call

Main Campus Emergency Numbers

Mary Spilde Center Emergency Numbers

Titan Court Emergency Numbers

Lane Aviation Academy Emergency Numbers

Lane Dental Clinic Emergency Numbers

KLCC Emergency Numbers

Cottage Grove Center Emergency Numbers

Florence Center Emergency Numbers

Emergency Planning Team

The Emergency Planning Team (EPT) is responsible for coordinating and managing campus emergencies. The EPT is comprised of key campus personnel with responsibilities for emergency response.

  1. Director of Emergency Management
  2. Chief Human Resources Officer
  3. Chief Information Officer
  4. Director of Mary Spilde Center

  5. Director of Florence Campus
  6. Director of Facilities Management and Planning
  7. Director of Marketing & Strategic Communications
  8. Executive Director of External Affairs
  9. Emergency and Risk Management Coordinator
  10. Health Clinic Director
  11. Executive Director of External Affairs
  12. Student Government Representative
  13. Vice-President Finance & Administration

Operational Procedures

When a potential or actual emergency is identified, it should be brought to the attention of the Director of Emergency Management or Chief Public Safety Officer at 541-463-5555.

The Director of Emergency Management will consult with the Emergency Planning Team to determine whether an emergency exists and the nature and extent of any emergency.

If appropriate, the Emergency Planning Team will convene at the pre-determined location listed in the Resource Guide. The EPT will decide on an appropriate course of action and the content and delivery method of any public statements.

Such a course of action may include activation of the Incident Command System (ICS), including establishment of an Emergency Operations Center (EOC). For more information on ICS see the ICS FEMA Training page .

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Active Shooter

Active Shooter on Campus/Lockdown

Situations where one or more individuals attempt to use deadly force against many people are very fluid and changing. It is impossible to anticipate exactly how the situation will evolve; therefore, it is impossible to provide absolute guidelines. Taking the time to think through possible actions in advance can create an important advantage in the event an active shooter incident occurs. Active shooter or violent actor incidents can happen at any location where people gather, and usually start quickly and without warning. If an active shooter or violent actor incident occurs on campus, call 911 and 541-463-5555 as soon as it is safe to do so.

Decision Making for Active Shooter on Campus/Lockdown

In the initial phases of an active shooter or violent actor situation, individuals must make decisions based upon assessment of the situation.

It is important that everyone in the area follow all directions from law enforcement personnel.
As soon as it is safe, the Emergency Planning Team will convene to consider other actions needed by the college.

All college communications will utilize the campus Emergency Communication Plan, which is included in the Resource Guide.

Action Steps

Happening Now

Hearing gunfire may be the first indication that something is wrong. Assess the situation and take action.

In general, put as much distance as possible between yourself and the shooter(s) or violent actor(s). Do not go toward the sound of gunfire to investigate and/or try to help. Get away from the area. It’s better to be a moving target than a non-moving target.

If it is not possible to safely get out of the area, consider locking down. Lockdown may be the best option if the shooter(s) or violent actor(s) is some distance away. Secure the room, or go to a nearby room that can be secured. Close the blinds, turn off all radios, and keep quiet. Crouch down near the wall through which the shooter is most likely to fire. Consider trajectory of potential bullets when taking cover. The goal is to keep the shooter(s) or violent actor(s) from entering the room.

Quietly discuss a plan with others in the room to respond if the shooter or violent actor enters the room. If that happens, don’t “duck for cover,” which creates a partially exposed, passive target. If possible, try to get away. Evaluate the situation before following any instructions from a shooter or violent actor.

Lockdown - (Remote Securing of Electronically Controlled Doors)

If a lockdown becomes necessary, try to keep people from coming in contact with the shooter(s) or violent actor(s) by going to places that can be secured. Ideally, a lockdown space will have phone and internet access, but the ability to secure the space is primary. If a “safe room” has been designated in your area, you may initiate use of the room as circumstances dictate.

LCC Alert will be activated to alert people to the need for a lockdown. Where available, the campus emergency notification system, including overhead public address systems and annunciators, will be activated. Annunciators are installed in multiple locations, including some outdoor spaces, and also at the Mary Spilde Center location. At this time, annunciators are not active at the Cottage Grove or Florence Centers, although alarms are installed at all locations.

It must be an individual decision whether it is best to try to flee the area or lockdown. There are risks and benefits to both decisions, and your decision will need to be based on your individual situation. All LCC locations have lockdown capabilities, either through the main campus Public Safety office or by a manual switch inside the building. Contact Public Safety for more information about lockdown switches at your location.

Do not set off the fire alarm in a lockdown. People may become targets leaving the buildings en masse and gathering outside. If a fire alarm goes off while you are in lockdown or sheltering in a safe room, assess the situation before leaving shelter. Consider the possibility that the alarm may have been set off by the shooter(s) or violent actor(s). If smoke or fire is present, exit the area.

In an active shooter or violent actor situation, the first priority of police will be to neutralize the threat. For safety reasons, first aid for victims will be a secondary priority until that has been accomplished.

Always cooperate fully with law enforcement. For your safety, do not make any sudden moves or run toward officers. When the situation is secure, an announcement will be made on the overhead public address system or via LCC Alert.

Modified Lockdown

In a modified lockdown, exterior doors are secured while normal activities continue inside the building. A modified lockdown may be necessary to restrict access to buildings in case of imminent danger on campus.

After the announcement to initiate a modified lockdown, staff should secure exterior doors, close blinds, and continue normal activities until notified of an all clear.

During modified lockdown, only allow entrance to personally known individuals who do not fit the description of the suspect.

Communications for Lockdown incidents

Public address/mass notification system will be used where installed. A LCC Alert message will be sent and other communications may be used.

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Aircraft Incidents

Because the Lane Aviation Academy offers flight instruction, there is a potential for incidents involving college owned aircraft during instructional activities.

Decision Making for Aircraft Incidents

The Director of Emergency Management will be notified of any incident involving college-owned or operated aircraft.

The Director of Emergency Management, aviation staff, and Emergency Planning Team members will coordinate with the Federal Aviation Administration, National Transportation Safety Board, authorities in the area where the aircraft came to rest, and appropriate state agencies.

Communications for Aircraft Incidents

Any employee receiving notification of an aircraft emergency incident should call Public Safety immediately at 541-463-5555 and report the aircraft type, names of all on board and current condition if known, the time and date of the loss, location of the loss and who made the notification to the college with a call-back number.

The Chief Public Safety Officer will:

  1. Confirm the aircraft incident; and
  2. Inform the Director of Emergency Management.

The Director of Emergency Management will:

  1. Convene the Emergency Planning Team if indicated;
  2. Inform the Lane Aviation Academy division chair; and
  3. Inform the Executive Director of External Affairs.

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Bomb Threat

Bomb threats usually occur by telephone. The caller has a message to deliver and has chosen the telephone as the medium for this communication. Motives vary, as does the desired outcome. The most important thing to remember when a bomb threat is received is to take the caller seriously.

Decision Making for Bomb Threats

College Public Safety staff are trained to initially respond to bomb threat situations. In addition, Public Safety receives assistance from local fire and police authorities who are specially trained and equipped to conduct bomb searches and disposal as necessary.

An employee receiving a telephone bomb threat should obtain as much information as possible (voice, accent, gender, mood, background noises, exact words used, who the caller represents and why the college is a target), then call Public Safety at 541-463-5555. Give your name and location. Employees also should use the Bomb Threat checklist, provided below and in the Employee Emergency Manual.

Dissemination of any bomb threat information to students and employees will be at the direction of the Director of Emergency Management.

Communications for Bomb Threat Events

The Director of Emergency Management, upon notification of a bomb threat against any college resource, will assess the credibility of the threat and will convene the Emergency Planning Team.

The EPT will make decisions on:

  1. Evacuation of affected facilities;
  2. Closure of the affected campus;
  3. Requests for outside assistance; and/or
  4. Communications via the Executive Director of External Affairs.

Action Steps

  1. Remain calm.
  2. Try to obtain as much information as possible from the caller by using the Bomb Threat Checklist below (also located in the Employee Emergency Manual).
  3. While on the phone with the caller, have someone contact Public Safety immediately at 541-463-5555 or 541-463-5558. Give your name, location and telephone number.
  4. Inform your supervisor or manager.
  5. If told to evacuate by campus authorities, follow evacuation procedures.
  6. If a suspicious object is seen, report it to a Public Safety officer. Do not touch or move it.
  7. Do not spread rumors.

Bomb Threat Checklist

  1. When will the bomb explode?
  2. Where is the bomb now?
  3. What does the bomb look like?
  4. What kind of bomb is it?
  5. What will cause it to explode?
  6. Did you place the bomb?
  7. Why?
  8. What is your address?
  9. What is your name?
  10. Sex of caller: Male or Female
    Age_____ Race______ Length of call_____
    Tell the caller to contact 911 to report the bomb. This may allow a trace.

To obtain a checklist on Bomb Threat response, contact Public Safety at 541-463-5558.

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Communications

The Executive Director of External Affairs must issue all communications that are related to an emergency.

News media make announcements as soon as they receive information from the college Executive Director of External Affairs. To ensure accurate reporting, no one except the Executive Director of External Affairs should contact the media.

Emergencies that significantly disrupt classes and services will be announced to employees, students and the public using the LCC Alert messaging system. In addition to these general guidelines, each emergency heading includes specific communications information.

The Executive Director of External Affairs will, as needed:

  1. Write the announcement;
  2. Implement communications selected by the team; and
  3. Evaluate communications and record for future reference.

Action Steps

Communications (Internal)

Emergency information will be announced by the Emergency Planning Team to employees, students and the public using the LCC Alert emergency notification system. LCC Alert allows messages to be sent simultaneously to all registered users via text messaging and/or email. All employees and students should check periodically to ensure contact information is correct in MyLane, which is the database used for emergency communication. Divisions and departments are responsible for notifying students in classrooms, laboratories, the library, or cafeteria or other open public interior spaces. All-clear announcements will be made when the situation is stabilized.

Communications (External)

  1. Refer all media questions regarding emergencies to Lane's Executive Director of External Affairs at (541) 463-5850.
  2. Announcements are made to the media by the Executive Director of External Affairs.

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Timely And Immediate Notification (Including Timely Warnings)

Lane Community College will immediately notify the campus community upon confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate on-campus threat to the health or safety of students or employees. Examples include serious crimes, imminent or expected severe weather events, possible presence of dangerous individual or animals, etc.
Emergency information will be announced to students and employees via LCC Alert by the Emergency Planning Team or other authorized individuals. LCC Alert allows messages to be sent simultaneously to all registered users via text messaging and/or email. Divisions and departments are responsible for notifying students in classrooms, laboratories, the library, or cafeteria. All-clear announcements will be made when the situation is stabilized.

The Director of Emergency Management or an appointed designee, in conjunction with members of the Emergency Planning Team, Public Safety and Facilities Management & Planning will determine whether to activate the LCC Alert emergency notification system.

Five criteria are used to determine if activation of the LCC Alert system is warranted and which communications will be utilized:

  1. Hazard Type
    1. What is the hazard? (fire, earthquake, flood, chemical hazard, dangerous individual)
    2. What is the impact to Lane Community College? (Minor, major, disaster)
    3. What is the potential for the situation to worsen?
    4. Is the situation under control?
  2. Life Safety / Property Protection
    1. What is the potential for death?
    2. What is the potential for serious injury?
    3. What is the potential for minor injury?
    4. What is the potential for damage?
    5. What is the potential for disruption to normal course of business?
  3. Urgency
    1. How soon does the message need to go out? (Seconds, hours, days)
    2. Is there time for approval?
  4. Audience
    1. Who needs to be alerted? (Administration, faculty, staff, students, visitors)
    2. How many people need to be alerted? (dozens, hundreds, thousands)
  5. Capabilities / Limitations
    1. What are the limitations of the system? (audience, delivery time, mass panic)
    2. Which system should be used? (Press conference, LCC Alert, email, text)
    3. How quickly can the messages be sent? (Immediately, minutes, hours)

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Criminal Activities

Everyone is asked to help make the college a safe place by being alert to suspicious situations or persons and by reporting them as soon as possible. Do not place yourself at personal risk. On the main campus, call Public Safety at 541-463-5555. At the Mary Spilde Center, Titan Court, Cottage Grove Center, Florence Center, KLCC, Lane Aviation Academy, or Lane Dental Clinic, call 911; then, if you are safely able to do so, call Public Safety at 541-463-5555.

Avoid physical confrontation with the perpetrator by any reasonable means available. If a vehicle is involved, get a license number, make, model, and color if possible. Try to determine the route of travel if it is safe to do so. Safety of students and employees is always the first priority.

Decision Making for Crime in Progress Events

After becoming aware of a major crime against a person or property in progress, the Chief Public Safety Officer will notify the Director of Emergency Management of the nature of the activity, steps taken by Public Safety, and advise any other actions appropriate to the circumstances.

Communications for Criminal Activities

The Chief Public Safety Officer, upon notification of criminal activity will:

  1. Dispatch Public Safety staff to the scene;
  2. Notify appropriate outside agencies and request assistance, if required;
  3. Notify the Director of Emergency Preparedness if indicated; and
  4. Follow-up after investigation is completed.

A LCC Alert message will be sent if needed.

Action Steps

  1. Do not try to apprehend or interfere with the criminal except to defend yourself.
  2. Get a description; height, weight, sex, color, age, clothing, method and direction of travel. If the criminal enters a vehicle, get the license number, make, model, color and outstanding characteristics. (Also see: Bomb Threat Checklist)
  3. Do not touch or move what may be evidence or appear dangerous.
  4. If possible go to a safe place. Call Public Safety at 541-463-5555 or 541-463-5558. Give your name, location and department. Advise Pubic Safety of the situation and stay in place until contacted by an officer.
  5. Do not interfere with those engaging in criminal activities or with Public Safety or other law enforcement authorities.

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Demonstrations And Protests

Demonstrations, protests or work stoppages can adversely affect the normal delivery of educational services and/or create various consequences for the college. These events can also pose a threat to the safety and security of students and staff when arriving, using and departing from college property.

Decision Making for Demonstrations and Protests

A demonstration or protest is considered a planned event if the college has been notified and the event appropriately scheduled. The Chief Public Safety Officer will coordinate with local authorities to ensure access to and from the college, and will request any necessary assistance to ensure students, employees and properties are provided the highest degree of protection available. Every effort will be made to maintain a positive learning environment.

If an event occurs without notice, the college will take all necessary actions to maintain normal operating activities. The Chief Public Safety Officer will coordinate with appropriate law enforcement and judicial officials to obtain support for the protection of college students, employees and property as soon as possible.

Communications for Demonstration and Protests

The Chief Public Safety Officer, upon notification of the event, will:

  1. Advise Director of Emergency Management;
  2. Assess the potential impact on college operations;
  3. Recommend regarding convening of the Emergency Planning Team; and
  4. Implement procedures to protect students, employees and property.

A LCC Alert message will be sent if needed.

Action Steps

  1. If you observe unapproved demonstrations or protests or if they are taking place at unapproved locations, contact Public Safety at 541-463-5555 or 541-463-5558.
  2. If you are not comfortable with what is being said, do not stay in the area. Avoid provoking or obstructing demonstrators.
  3. In the event of a civil disturbance continue with your normal routine as much as possible. If the disturbance is outside, stay away from doors and windows.
  4. If you observe destructive behavior at any time contact Public Safety at 541-463-5555 or 541-463-5558. Give your name and what you saw.
  5. If violent behavior is observed, leave the area immediately and proceed to your workspace or an area away from the demonstration. Advise the appropriate manager or Public Safety and wait for instructions.
  6. If the incident occurs after hours, contact Public Safety at 541-463-5555.

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Evacuation

Physical emergencies may warrant evacuation of a building or campus location. A decision to evacuate will be communicated to all affected individuals using the LCC Alert messaging system and/or public address system, if available. The methods of communication will depend on the event, potential harm to people and property, and the urgency required. Specific evacuation procedures have been developed for physically impaired individuals.

Decision Making for Evacuations

The Emergency Planning Team or Director of Emergency Management will assess the event and determine whether evacuation of all or part of the campus is indicated. If evacuation is deemed necessary, Public Safety and Facilities Management & Planning personnel will coordinate this activity and request appropriate local government agency support as necessary.

Communications for Evacuations

The Chief Public Safety Officer, when circumstances warrant, will:

  1. Initiate evacuation of a building, buildings or the entire campus upon direction of the Emergency Planning Team;
  2. Ensure all students, employees and visitors are safely evacuated from the affected area(s), including marked Areas of Rescue to individuals with physical impairment;
  3. Notify Facilities Management & Planning and local agencies to provide support as necessary.

A LCC Alert message will be sent if needed.

Action Steps- Evacuation Fire/Gas Leak/Bomb Threat/Post-Earthquake

  1. Do not use building elevators in case of fire or earthquake; use nearest stairway.
  2. Walk—do not run—to the nearest exit.
  3. Leave the building and move to the designated meeting place for your building. Proceed away from the building to a distance at least equal to 1.5 times the height of the building. Do not obstruct emergency personnel or vehicles.
  4. Take purses and backpacks when evacuating. Close doors but do not lock them, except in an earthquake when you should not close doors.
  5. Only return to a building after you have been told it is safe to do so by Public Safety, Facilities Management & Planning, or other responding emergency response personnel.

Action Steps: Evacuation of Persons With Disabilities - Fire/Gas Leak/Bomb Threat/Post-Earthquake

  1.  Remain calm and reassuring.
  2.  Give assistance to the person with disability. Ask about the individual’s specific needs.
  3.  Request assistance from those near you if needed.
  4.  Exit the building if it is possible to do so safely. If not, proceed to the nearest evacuation area or move toward the nearest marked exit (these are evacuation areas). Do not use the elevator in case of fire or emergencies that might affect electricity.
  5. The wheelchair occupant or person with disability may use the building elevators only if directed by emergency response personnel.
  6. The wheelchair occupant or person with disability should remain in the evacuation area until rescue personnel arrive. All evacuation areas will be checked first by emergency personnel.
  7. Only utilize an Evacutrac in your facility if you have been trained to use it and you have determined that it is prudent to evacuate.

Action Steps: Evacuation Active Shooter/Violent Actor

  1. If you believe the best option is to evacuate, do so immediately. Every incident is unique, and your decision should be based on your understanding of the situation and location of the violent actors.
  2. Leave the campus as quickly as possible.
  3. Do NOT go to the campus transit stop.
  4. Advise any students or staff nearby about the emergency and encourage them to come with you.
  5. Do NOT attempt to enter another campus building. All buildings will be locked and it may not be safe to enter other buildings.
  6. Do not gather at any rally point or meeting location, instead, make every effort to leave the campus.
  7. Updates on the situation will be communicated via LCC Alert and other campus emergency communication systems.

Action Steps: Evacuation of Persons with Disabilities - Active Shooter/Violent Actor

  1. Remain calm and reassuring.
  2. Give assistance to the person with disability. Ask about the individual’s specific needs.
  3. Exit building if possible. However, consider shelter-in-place if the person with a disability has mobility issues and cannot quickly evacuate the area.
  4. Only utilize an Evacutrac in your facility if you have been trained to use it and you have determined that it is prudent to evacuate.

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Fire Or Explosion

Every activated fire alarm will be treated as an actual event. Evacuation of an affected building is mandatory and must begin when the alarm sounds. If notified, Public Safety and Facilities Management & Planning personnel will assist and ensure the evacuation has been completed to include support for the physically impaired. All employees must become familiar with the evacuation routes for their respective buildings and any other assigned responsibilities to ensure the safety of students and visitors.

Decision Making for Fire or Explosion

Upon notice of a fire situation either by alarm or college employees, employees should immediately evacuate their work area. Employees also should advise others of the situation and encourage them to leave the facility. If an individual refuses to leave the facility, Public Safety, Facilities Management & Planning or on-scene fire officials should be notified. Evacuate to the designated location for your building, and standby for further instructions. Only return to a building after you have been told it is safe to do so by Public Safety, Facilities Management & Planning, or other responding emergency response personnel.

Communications for Fire or Explosion

Upon notification of a fire on campus, the Chief Public Safety Officer, Director of Emergency Management, or other ICS trained individuals will:

  1. Start evacuation of the affected area, facility or campus;
  2. Notify the local fire department; and
  3. Consult with the Emergency Planning Team about the need for college closure.

A LCC Alert message will be sent if needed.

Action Steps

  1. In case of fire, confine the flames by closing the door to the room and sound the fire alarm.
  2. On the main campus, call Public Safety at 541-463-5555. At the Mary Spilde Center, Titan Court, Cottage Grove Center, Florence Center, KLCC, Lane Aviation Academy, or Lane Dental Clinic, call 911; then, if you are safely able to do so, call Public Safety at 541-463-5555. Give your name, department and location of fire. Do not hang up until Public Safety instructs you to do so.
  3. If the fire is small, control it with a fire extinguisher if you have been trained.
  4. If the fire is large, very smoky or spreading rapidly, evacuate the building immediately.
  5. Do not use building elevators in case of fire or earthquake.
  6. Follow evacuation procedures.
  7. Leave the building and move to the designated location for the building. Do not obstruct emergency personnel or vehicles.
  8. If you suspect someone is trapped in the building, notify rescue personnel.
  9. Only return to a building after you have been told it is safe to do so by Public Safety, Facilities Management & Planning, or other responding emergency response personnel.
  10. Note: for wildfires, see Severe Weather.

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Hazardous Materials Accidents

Contamination from hazardous materials can occur by physical contact or inhalation. The college requires all hazardous material containers to be labeled with information regarding the health hazards of the substance. Individuals who believe they have been contaminated by contact or inhalation of a known or suspected hazardous material should immediately seek emergency response assistance. The individual should also advise Public Safety and Facilities Management and Planning of the location and type of material, if known.

Decision Making for Hazardous Material Accidents

Upon notification of a hazardous materials incident, The Chief Public Safety Officer will:

  1. Determine the extent and nature of the accident;
  2. Ensure that the scene is cordoned off;
  3. Request contamination control assistance from Facilities Management & Planning staff if indicated;
  4. Request medical assistance if indicated;
  5. Request local governmental agency support as appropriate;
  6. Notify the Director of Emergency Management if indicated; and
  7. Coordinate response efforts under leadership of the EPT if indicated.

Action Steps

  1. Unless properly trained, do not attempt to clean up the hazardous spill. Call Facilities Management & Planning at (541) 463-5000 or 541-463-5001.
  2. If a gas cylinder or other chemical container leaks, and if you believe this is dangerous, the following steps should be taken:
    1. Confine the fumes or fire by shutting the door to the room.
    2. Sound the building fire alarm. Begin Evacuation Procedures.
    3. Call Public Safety at 541-463-5555 or 541-463-5558. Give your name, department, location and specific information about the nature of the material involved.
    4. Leave the building and move to the designated location for the building. Do not obstruct emergency personnel or vehicles.
    5. Suspected gas leaks or suspicious odors should be reported to Public Safety at 541-463-5555 or (541) 463-5558.

Communication for Hazardous Materials Incidents

A LCC Alert message will be sent if needed.

Campus Guidance - Shelter in Place

Shelter-in-Place refers to selecting a small, interior room, with no or few windows, and taking refuge there until the dangerous situation has passed. There are three primary circumstances for Shelter-in-Place:

  1. Environmental Emergency. In an environmental emergency involving a release of hazardous materials, the best guidance may be to shelter in a building until the hazard has passed or been reduced. In this instance, specific directions and information on the nature of the threat and sheltering instructions will be communicated via LCC Alert and other methods, depending on location.
  2. Violent Actor or Active Shooter. When sheltering is advisable (versus evacuation) campus members should follow the guidelines in the Active Shooter/Violent Actor section of this plan.
  3. Severe Weather. In a severe weather event, when evacuation is not feasible, Emergency Planning Team members will direct staff to centralized shelters where resources will be concentrated and where power and heat can be maintained. If shelter is required over an extended period, executive authority may authorize use of campus food supplies (on the main campus) from the campus food service.

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Natural Disasters

A natural disaster can occur with or without notice. Earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, mudslides, volcanic activity, and severe windstorms pose a serious threat to the safety and security of students and employees as well as the physical college facilities. Natural disasters can disrupt, delay or terminate learning activities.

Decision Making for Natural Disasters

Some natural disasters provide lead-time to prepare and communicate with students and employees. When the Director of Emergency Management has reasonable lead-time to determine possible effects on college operations, a decision will be made to continue, reduce or terminate college functions and/or classes. The decision will be announced to students and employees via the LCC Alert messaging system.

When a natural disaster strikes without warning, the Director of Emergency Management will:

  1. Assemble the Emergency Planning Team (EPT);
  2. Assess the college operational capability;
  3. Determine any threat to students and employees; and
  4. Decide whether to continue operations, reduce activity or close a college facility.

Communications for Natural Disasters

The Chief Public Safety Officer will:

  1. Expeditiously advise the Director of Emergency Management of impending natural disaster events that could affect the safety of students, employees or the normal operation of the college; and
  2. Advise the Emergency Planning Team on pre- and post-event preparation and recovery actions.

A LCC Alert message will be sent if needed.

Action Steps for Earthquake

  1. If you are indoors when the earthquake occurs, stay there. Get under a desk or table or stand in a corner or doorway. Stay away from windows, shelves and heavy equipment. Do not use elevators.
  2. If you are outdoors when the earthquake occurs, get into an open area away from trees, buildings, walls and downed power lines.
  3. If you are driving when the earthquake occurs, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses and downed power lines. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over.
  4. If you are in a crowded public place when the earthquake occurs, do not rush for the doors. Move away from shelves containing object that could fall.
  5. After the shocks subside, evacuate to the designated location for the building.
  6. Follow the procedures in this manual for evacuation, fire, hazardous material accidents or serious injury, as necessary.
  7. In the event of major damage or disruption, Public Safety will announce and implement Evacuation Procedures.
  8. Call Public Safety at 541-463-5555 or 541-463-5558 to notify of serious hazards or injuries. Identify and assist the injured.
  9. Only return to a building after you have been told it is safe to do so by Public Safety, Facilities Management & Planning, or other responding emergency response personnel.

See Severe Weather for information related to high winds, floods, wildfires, etc.

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Physical Injuries And Medical Emergencies

Injuries and medical emergencies on campus may be classified as either:

  1. Minor: the injured person may self-administer first aid, using available first-aid kits located in all college buildings;
  2. Moderate: A qualified trained employee may administer first aid. The injured person should then be referred to the appropriate medical provider. The Health Clinic also may also be a resource for injured persons, but is only able to provide assistance to stabilize the patient, and is not able to provide follow-up care. For that reason, if expert medical care is called for, it is best to treat the injury or illness as “Severe” and respond as instructed below.
  3. Severe: On the main campus, call Public Safety at 541-463-5555. At the Mary Spilde Center, Titan Court, Cottage Grove Center, Florence Center, KLCC, Lane Aviation Academy, or Lane Dental Clinic, call 911; then, if you are safely able to do so, call Public Safety at (541) 463-5555. State the nature of the illness or injury, location of patient, and if an ambulance is needed. CPR, if indicated, should be started by any trained bystander until relieved by Public Safety or emergency response personnel.

Fill out the appropriate accident report for ANY injury or near miss. See Communications for Physical Injuries and Medical Emergencies.

Decision Making for Physical Injuries and Medical Emergencies

For medical emergencies or situations requiring immediate medical care for persons injured on the main campus, contact Public Safety at 541-463-5555. For medical emergencies or situations requiring immediate medical care for individuals at the Mary Spilde Center, Titan Court, Cottage Grove Center, Florence Center, KLCC, Lane Aviation Academy, or Lane Dental Clinic, call 911; then, if you are safely able to do so, call Public Safety at 541-463-5555.  

Communications for Physical Injuries

Public Safety is responsible for notification and communications about any persons to whom they provide first aid or emergency response.

All accidents occurring on college property that do not involve an employee of the college are reported on an Accident Report Form provided by the campus Risk Management Coordinator or departmental offices on campus. Departments are responsible for completing the Accident Report Form for all student accidents in their area. 

See Occupational Injuries and Illnesses for accidents involving employees.

Action Steps

  1. Do not move an injured or ill person unless there is a life-threatening situation. If possible, on the main campus, call Public Safety at 541-463-5555 before assisting the injured or ill person. At the Mary Spilde Center, Titan Court, Cottage Grove Center, Florence Center, KLCC, Lane Aviation Academy, or Lane Dental Clinic, call 911; then, if you are safely able to do so, call Public Safety at 541-463-5555. Public Safety officers carry an AED, and can notify emergency responders if necessary, and assist them in reaching the exact location of the victim on campus in an efficient manner. When you call, give your name, extension, exact location of the victim, and information regarding the injury or illness.
  2. Send another person to the closest exit to lead emergency response personnel to the injured person, or ask another person to remain with the injured person while you guide emergency responders to the correct location.
  3. Return to the victim and keep them calm and comfortable. If properly trained, administer first aid. If necessary, locate the nearest AED by looking at the map on the back of the Employee Emergency Manual in your area.
  4. Remain with the injured person until Public Safety or emergency response personnel arrive.
  5. Do not attempt to clean up spilled blood or bodily fluids unless properly equipped and trained to do so. Instead, notify Facilities Management and Planning at x5000.

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Psychological And Emotional Trauma

There is a potential for mental health trauma or psychological trauma to victims or witnesses of an emergency or traumatic incident. Support services for students are offered through Lane's Counseling Department 541-463-3600. The Counseling Department networks with other agencies in the community and will call for additional support if needed.

Support services for employees are offered through the Employee Access Program (EAP). Faculty members may access EAP benefits by contacting Reliant Behavioral Health at 866-750-1327. Classified and management employees may access EAP benefits by contacting DIRECTION at 541-345-2800 or 800-535-1347. Employees may contact Human Resources for additional information about the Employee Access Program.

Decision Making for Emergency Events That Involve Victims and/or Witnesses

The Chief Public Safety Officer will ensure that the Counseling Department is notified as indicated.

Communications for Crisis Events

Counseling Center staff will assess the extent of the intervention necessary and notify the Director of Emergency Management of the situation with recommendations on:

  1. Requests for outside assistance (e.g. Lane County Mental Health Disaster Response Coalition); and/or
  2. Establishment of crisis debriefing safe rooms.

A LCC Alert message will be sent if needed.

Types of Support

There are three basic supports which are provided at the scene:

  1. Assistance to victims, survivors and family members who are directly involved with the incident;
  2. Brief crisis interventions with emergency personnel who are showing signs of distress; and
  3. Advice and counsel to the Emergency Planning Team.

Action Steps

  1. Your first duty is to ensure your own safety.
  2. Call Public Safety at 541-463-5555 or 541-463-5558 and/or the Counseling Department hotline at 541-463-8888 to make sure they are aware of the situation.
  3. Next, if you believe you can and desire to, assess the emotional state of those around you and determine if you can safely help stabilize them emotionally while you wait for professional assistance to arrive.
  4. When help arrives, trained crisis responders will assess the nature and extent of the intervention and take over responsibility for stabilizing the situation and providing crisis management.
  5. If necessary, responders will notify the president or designee with recommendations.
  6. Outside assistance will be requested if warranted by the situation.
  7. For students, counseling is available by making an appointment 541-463-3600 or dropping by the counseling department on the main campus at any time during regular business hours.
  8. For employees, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available at 541-344-6929.

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Severe Weather

Severe weather includes rain, snow, ice, flooding, strong winds and tornadoes or similar events that could affect the operational capability of the college or threaten the safety of students or employees. This includes conditions affecting safe travel to or from any college campus.

Decision Making for Severe Weather

The Vice President of Finance & Administration or designee will evaluate available data from personal observations, news sources, and recommendations from Public Safety and Facilities Management & Planning staff. The Chief Human Resources Officer will also review available data from a secure community database to further evaluate and assess a course of action, including whether to reduce services, close the college, or continue to operate all activities as scheduled.

Severe Weather Action Steps

  1. To report a severe weather event, call Public Safety at (541) 463-5555 or 541-463-5558. The LCC Alert system will be utilized by a representative of the Emergency Planning Team.
  2. Additional information may be posted on Lane's website or on pages such as MyLane or Moodle.
  3. For on-campus students and employees, notifications and instructions will be announced by Public Safety via the on-campus public address system.
  4. For off-campus students and employees, the Executive Director of External Affairs will alert radio and television news stations. Do not call KLCC-FM or other media; this interferes with their ability to announce the most current information.
  5. If the media contacts you, refer them to the Executive Director of External Affairs at 541-463-5850.

Communications for Severe Weather

  1. Advise the Director of Emergency Management of potential impact on college operations by forecasted severe weather; and
  2. Ensure coordination to monitor weather conditions and take appropriate action to make the campus safe for students and employees, including:
    1. Request that the on-duty Public Safety staff assess in-progress severe weather conditions;
    2. When warranted, advise the Director of Emergency Management about delay/closure of campus due to weather conditions; and
    3. As appropriate, notify the Executive Director of External Affairs.

The Executive Director of External Affairs will implement communications to employees, students and the public via LCC Alert and/or Flash Alert to news media, and may additionally send all-staff email See the Communications section in this plan for more detail. Also see the college Weather Closure Q & A.

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Utility Failures

Utility failures include commercial failure of services (power/water/sewage) that adversely affect the ability of the college to deliver institutional instruction or maintain a safe environment for students and employees.

Decision Making for Utility Failures

Upon notification that a situation exists, the Director of Emergency Management will communicate with the Chief Public Safety Officer and the Facilities Management & Planning Director to determine the nature, scope, and duration of the loss. The Director of Emergency Management may convene the Emergency Planning Team. The Director of Emergency Management will determine if college activities can continue, be reduced, or if closure is appropriate.

Communications for Utility Failures

The Chief Public Safety Officer will:

  1. Coordinate with the Facilities Management & Planning Director to determine the extent of service disruption;;
  2. Advise the Director of Emergency Management of the nature of the disruption and any potential safety issues affecting students or employees; and
  3. Consult with the Emergency Planning Team about the probable effects upon college operations.

A LCC Alert message will be sent if needed.

Action Steps

  1. If there is a potential danger to the building occupants or if the utility failure occurs after hours, weekends or on holidays, notify Public Safety at 541-463-5555 or (541) 463-5558.
  2. If there is a major gas leak, do not activate the building fire alarms.
  3. Leave the building and move to the designated location for the building. Do not obstruct emergency personnel or vehicles.
  4. Assist people with disabilities in exiting the building See Evacuation of Persons with Disabilities.
  5. In case of electrical failure, do not use the elevator. If stuck in the elevator, use the emergency phone to call for help.

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Violent Or Threatening Behavior

Your first duty is to ensure the safety of yourself and those you are responsible for at the college. Do not meet with anyone who has threatened you or is an obvious danger to you.

Decision Making for Violent or Threatening Behavior

For situations that pose an immediate threat of danger on the main campus, call 541-463-5555. At the Mary Spilde Center, Titan Court, Cottage Grove Center, Florence Center, KLCC, Lane Aviation Academy, or Lane Dental Clinic, call 911; then, if you are safely able to do so, call Public Safety at (541) 463-5555. Refer persons who pose a potential threat to your manager, Human Resources, or Public Safety. If necessary, the potential threat will be referred to the college Threat Assessment Team (TAT) for further evaluation.

Action Steps

Verbally Abusive Behavior

  1. Remain calm. Try to calm the person down.
  2. Try to listen carefully and pay attention to what is said. Let the person know you will help within your ability to do so.
  3. If the individual does not respond, get the attention of others around you.
  4. If the situation is escalating or if you feel there is an immediate threat at the main campus, contact Public Safety at 541-463-5555. For immediate threats at the Mary Spilde Center, Titan Court, Cottage Grove Center, Florence Center, KLCC, Lane Aviation Academy, or Lane Dental Clinic, call 911; then, if you are safely able to do so, call Public Safety at 541-463-5555.
  5. If necessary, leave the area. Do so under whatever pretext is necessary.
  6. Once you are in a safe location, contact Public Safety to report the incident by calling 541-463-5558 if you have not already done so.

Action Steps

Physically Aggressive Behavior

  1. Do not engage the physically aggressive person. Leave your workspace immediately. Go to a location with other people.
  2. Advise your manager and other staff.
  3. Call Public Safety at 541-463-5555 or (541) 463-5558 as soon as you are in a safe location to do so.

Other Guidelines for Coping in a Potentially Violent Situation

  1. Alert a colleague that you will be meeting with a potentially violent person and have the colleague ready to assist. Have a public safety officer "on call" or with you as circumstances dictate.
  2. Keep the door of your meeting place open and position yourself in an area that gives you an easy exit.
  3. If there are objects present that could be used as weapons and it is safe to remove them from the area, do so immediately.
  4. If your instinct tells you something is wrong, leave immediately.
  5. Avoid body language that appears challenging such as placing your hands on your hips, moving into the other person's territory or using aggressive facial expressions.
  6. Slow your speaking rate and lower your voice to de-escalate the situation.
  7. Ask to include a supervisor or administrator to help the agitated person's need to feel heard.
  8. Ask questions to help regain control of the conversation and to understand the situation.
  9. Never agree with disoriented statements or attempt to argue. Avoid defensiveness.
  10.  End the conversation if the person remains belligerent and does not respond to your efforts.
  11. Never touch an outraged person or try to force them to leave.
  12. If a weapon becomes evident, leave. If that is not possible, calmly ask the person to leave any weapon in a neutral position as you continue talking calmly. Notify Public Safety as soon as possible.
  13. Let the person know the consequences of any violent behavior.
  14. Never agree to go to an unmonitored location with a potentially violent person.
  15. After the meeting is over, report any unacceptable behavior or threats to your manager and Public Safety. Help the campus remain alert to any situation that could eventually escalate to violence.

Numbers to Call

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Date Adopted

Saturday, May 1, 1999

Date Last Reviewed

Monday, August 7, 2017