Any spill, other than a small incidental type spill or mishap, involving hazardous materials (for example: motor oil, bleach, gasoline, etc.) shall be reported immediately to Emergency Communications at 911. Then contact the Switchboard at ext. 600 that 911 has been called. The Switchboard will notify the Director of Facilities at ext. 229.

IF OUTSIDE

• Avoid all contact with the spill.
• Move upwind and away from the spill area.

IF INSIDE

• Avoid all contact and do not attempt to clean up a spill. The spill will be assessed by trained personnel who will ensure that proper clean-up techniques are employed.

• Beware of offensive odors or fumes resulting from spills. Be prepared to evacuate buildings and/or areas in order to avoid potentially dangerous fumes. Do not use the fire alarm!

• All laboratory and maintenance personnel should be prepared to assist in the assessment of spills within their areas using the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the material involved as reference.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURE

Emergency evacuation routes are posted in classrooms and corridors. At the sound of an emergency alarm, students, faculty, and staff should exit the building immediately through the nearest emergency exit as indicated by the arrows on the evacuation route.

Upon hearing the alarm, instructors should announce to their students that they should leave the building by the nearest safe, unblocked exit and should assemble immediately at the designated evacuation site.

Instructors should take their daily attendance roster with them to the assembly point so that they can conduct a roll call of students.

Remaining calm during the evacuation procedure will be essential for the safety of all persons involved.

Once the building has been evacuated, no one should re-enter the building until instructed to do so by administrative services staff, emergency personnel, or administration.

EMERGENCY LOCKDOWN PROCEDURE

For the protection and safety of staff, faculty, students and visitors, a crisis on campus may require the college to implement emergency lockdown of a building or the entire campus. For example, an armed intruder on campus would require that building occupants lock themselves in rather than being evacuated and exposed to the danger. Time is critical in such a crisis and the lockdown must be initiated as quickly as possible.

Due to the absence of a public address system on campus, notification of the need for a lockdown would be given verbally by campus employees. It is extremely important that staff and faculty assist in announcing the lockdown and directing building occupants into a room/building that can be secured.

When an announcement is made to initiate the emergency lockdown, the following steps should be followed:

• All staff and faculty members should direct all students and visitors to proceed to the closest building/room that can be secured.
  
  
• All doors into the area should be locked.
  
  
• Move to the furthermost point in the room away from windows and doors.
  
  
• Close blinds/drapes for concealment.
  
  
• Turn off lights and remain silent so as not to attract attention.
  
  
• Remain under lockdown until advised that the crisis has been resolved

• Combustible materials (such as gasoline) shall be stored in safety cans and/or safety cabinets.

• Open flame shall be allowed in places of assembly on the MCC campus only with prior, written permission from the VP of Administrative Services.

• Approved and inspected open flame used to meet course requirements for classes such as chemistry, biology, etc. shall be allowed in the science laboratories with appropriate supervision from faculty responsible for these classrooms.

• Smoking is prohibited in all buildings on campus.

• Excessive speed and reckless driving are prohibited on campus.

• No weapons or firearms are permitted on campus, except for those persons who are duly authorized to carry and use firearms and in programs conducted for use of firearms.

• No fireworks or other explosives shall be used or stored on campus, except by duly authorized permit.

• No alcoholic beverages or controlled substances may be bought, sold, or consumed on campus. Persons under the influence of alcohol and/or controlled substances are not permitted on campus.

 If a utility problem is discovered, such as a gas leak, call the Switchboard at ext. 600. The Switchboard will call Maintenance or emergency personnel.

Gas Leak

• Only personnel specifically trained in emergency shut-off procedures should shut off the building’s gas.

• Do not turn on or off any electrical devices, including light switches (arc prevention). Do not light matches or lighters and extinguish open flames.

• Evacuate the area and/or building as required. Do not use the fire alarm.

• Maintenance will recommend response procedures to be followed once they have confirmed the leak. Building occupants should evacuate immediately if asked to do so by a Maintenance Department or Gas Company employee. Windows should be open to aid ventilation.

Power Loss

Disruption in electrical service should be reported immediately to the Switchboard at ext. 600. The Switchboard in turn will notify the Maintenance Supervisor (Coordinator of Evening Operations after 5:00 pm). Maintenance staff will investigate the scope and condition of the power loss. If power loss is due to the disruption of utility service, the power company will be notified.

Power losses greatly increase the likelihood of accidents and damage to electrical equipment. Every effort should be made to immediately turn off all electrical equipment. The building may be operated safely during daylight hours when sufficient natural light is available and the building can be occupied comfortably without HVAC. During evening operations the building will be evacuated. The Coordinator of Evening Operations will provide further directions concerning class schedules.

MCC has a “zero tolerance” policy related to drug and alcohol use or possession on school property. Enforcement of the Drug and Alcohol policy requires complete support of MCC faculty, staff, and administration.

Following are the most likely situations that will be experienced relating to drugs and alcohol:

• Student or employee finds drugs/alcohol on school property: Alcohol, drugs, or drug paraphernalia should be reported immediately to your supervisor. All pertinent information will be documented, maintained, and reported to an administrator.

• Student or employee witnessing possible sale of drugs: Situation should be observed from a safe distance noting physical descriptions of people and any vehicles involved. NO STUDENT OR EMPLOYEE SHOULD EVER ATTEMPT TO INTERVENE IN THIS SITUATION, OR ATTEMPT TO DETAIN ANY SUSPECT(S). Immediately report all information on the incident to an administrator.

• Student or employee exhibits behavior or appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol: Contact an administrator. If it is suspected that this person is under the influence of some type of drug or alcohol, he/she will be immediately dismissed from class/activity for the day. Arrangements will be made for someone to pick the person up and transport him/her home. Individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol should never be allowed to drive or otherwise leave the property on his/her own. The established disciplinary process will then be followed.

• Student or employee becomes aware that an individual has possession of drugs/alcohol: Notify an administrator. DO NOT attempt to search individual’s book bag, vehicle, purse, etc. The appropriate administrator will notify the proper authorities.

TO REPORT AN EMERGENCY, CALL:

State: “THIS IS AN EMERGENCY”

Provide:

• Your name and phone number (576-6222 and extension)

• The nature of the emergency
  
  
• Your location, 1011 Page St. DO NOT hang up until you are told that no further information is required, unless there is an immediate threat to your safety.
  
  
• Watch for arrival of emergency personnel and assist in directing them to the appropriate location.
  
  
• STAY OUT OF THE WAY!!!!

In case of a serious medical emergency CALL 911 then:

• Call the Switchboard at ext. 600. Give your name, telephone extension, location, and a description of the problem. (Switchboard operator will notify appropriate administrators).

• Keep all nonessential personnel away from the scene.
• Stay with the patient until emergency response personnel arrive.
• Do not move the patient unless he/she is in a life-threatening situation.
• Avoid giving the patient anything (including water) by mouth.
• Except in cases of possible spinal injuries, loosen clothing around the patient’s neck to facilitate breathing.
• Keep the patient warm as needed by covering with coats or blankets.
• Keep the victim calm and reassured that help is on the way.

First Aid for Seizures:

• Do not restrain the patient. A seizure cannot be stopped once it has begun.
• Clear the area around the patient of anything hard or sharp, i.e. tables and chairs.
• If possible, turn the patient gently onto one side; this will help keep the airway clear.
• Do not try to force the mouth open with any hard implement or with fingers. Efforts to hold the tongue down can injure the teeth or jaw.

If a psychological crisis occurs (e.g. suicide attempt, disorientation, confusion, panic) CALL 911 then:

• Call the Switchboard at ext. 600. Give your name, telephone extension, your location, and the location of the victim. Inform the operator about the nature of the problem.

• Stay with the victim unless your safety is threatened. Wait for emergency response personnel to arrive.
• Keep all nonessential personnel away from the scene.
• Stay calm and do not incite panic in others.

Actual fire or smoke situation

• Begin emergency evacuation by activating the nearest fire alarm.

• Call 911 and then call the Switchboard at ext. 600.
  
  
• Determine if the fire is small enough to handle with a fire extinguisher. Do not attempt to extinguish the fire unless you have been trained to use a fire extinguisher and know what you are doing. Even a small fire can generate enough smoke to cause serious injury. Never attempt to fight a fire by yourself. Always stay between the fire and an exit.
  
  
• Isolate the problem as well as possible by closing doors and windows. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO RETRIEVE VALUABLES.

• Do not block emergency vehicle access to the building.
  
  
• If you are aware that someone is trapped in a burning structure, inform the firefighters immediately. If you are trapped, stay low to the floor as you try to exit. Do not open any doors that feel hot. Use wet towels or cloths to protect yourself from flames and smoke. DO NOT RE-ENTER AN EVACUATED AREA UNTIL GIVEN PERMISSION BY FIRE DEPARTMENT.

Automatic System Activation

• Ensure that emergency evacuation of the building begins.
  
  
• Call the Switchboard at extension 600 to report alarm activation.
  
  
• If fire or smoke is seen, leave the building by the nearest safe exit.

False Alarms

Obviously, you will not know at the time of activation whether or not an alarm is false. For this reason, you MUST regard each alarm as an emergency. In fact, it is a violation of local fire code to disregard alarm activations. Evacuation procedures MUST be followed for any alarm.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER INSTRUCTIONS

P = PULL safety pin from the handle

A = AIM at the base of the fire

S = SQUEEZE the trigger handle

S = SWEEP from side-to-side

If your clothes catch fire, STOP, DROP, AND ROLL!!!

Anyone can be a victim of sexual assault or crime. Be aware of the different possibilities and be prepared to take whatever actions are necessary.

WHEN WALKING OR DRIVING:

• Walk with someone. This discourages attackers.
• Plan your route, and walk confidently.
• Don’t walk in isolated areas, especially at night.
• Lock your car doors when driving and parking.
• Avoid isolated or poorly lit parking spots.
• If your car breaks down, lock the doors, stay inside, and ask anyone who stops to call the police or a towing service.

IN THE EVENT AN ASSAULT OCCURS:

• Use your #1 defense, SCREAM.
• Kick, hit, bite, scratch, etc. These actions may let you escape, but be aware that they could lead to further harm.
• Remember your goal is survival. If your life is in danger, cooperate with the attacker.
• Report the incident immediately to the Police (911) and to the Switchboard (ext. 600) or any administrator.

TIPS THAT CAN BE USED TO PREVENT CAMPUS CRIME ARE:

• Lock your door whenever you leave your office.
• Avert temptation. Place your valuables out of sight; take valuables with you when you leave campus.
• Request identification of service people working in your area. If still uncertain, call the Switchboard at ext. 600.
• Keep a record of serial numbers, models, brand names, and description of all your valuables. Also keep a record of all your charge account numbers in a safe place.
• Do not leave notes or messages on your door saying you’re out and when you’ll return.
• Keep keys safe at all times.  Report any missing keys to the Business Office at ext. 218 immediately.
• Report all thefts, no matter how small, to the VP of Administrative Services at ext. 218.

If you see or suspect any illegal activity occurring at or about MCC:

• Contact the Switchboard immediately at ext. 600.
• Tell the Switchboard your name and location, and the location and nature of the incident.
• If you are in a safe location, stay there.
• Do not attempt to interfere with the situation except for self-protection.
• Try to note a description of any suspects involved. Important characteristics to note are:
  • Height & Weight
  • Method & direction of travel
  • Names used
  • Sex, Race, & Age
  • Hair Color
  • Distinguishing Marks (scars, tattoos, etc.)
• Also try to note a description of any vehicles involved. Important information to note are:
  • Color
  • License number
  • Noticeable damage or uniqueness
  • Make & Model
  • How many occupants

Be aware of the following suspicious signs. Follow the above procedures if any of them are observed:

• A scream or a call for help.
• A whistle or horn blowing.
• A broken window.
• Gun shots.
• An unfamiliar person doing any of the following:
  • Entering a neighbor’s office
  • Loitering on or about the campus
  • Trying to break into a vehicle, or
  • Repeatedly driving on or about campus

The primary concern of the College is the safety of students and employees. Regardless of the official decisions outlined in this section, make your best decision considering all the information which you have available.

1. When the decision not to operate can be made the evening before, efforts will be made to have the announcement on the 11 pm news programs of WFMY (Channel 2), WBTV (Channel 3), WRAL (Channel 5), WGHP (Channel 8), and WSOC (Channel 9), as well as the radio stations listed below:

1. When possible, a decision concerning day classes will be made by 6:00 am and for evening classes by 4:00 pm.
2. If it is obvious at the time the early morning decision is made that there is little probability of operating anytime during that day or evening, the announcement will be made that the College will be closed all day and evening.
3. If it appears the College will open on a delay, the announcement will state the College’s opening time. A message about unusual operating hours will be put on the MCC telephone system, provided there is electrical power at the College.
4. Factors other than ice and snow on public roads, such as the clearing of snow and ice from college parking lots, roads, and walks, are considered when deciding to open or close the College. Additional factors may include electrical failure and interruption of fuel/gas service.

Closing decisions are made by senior administration, using all available information. Occasionally decisions will be made that may inconvenience or frustrate some individuals. However, principles of health, safety, and protection of property will take priority in making a determination to close the College.

There is not necessarily a direct relationship between the closing of the public schools and closing of the College. Public school officials consider different factors (e.g. large numbers of children on buses) when they decide whether or not to operate the school.

In the event that severe weather (i.e. tornado warning, severe thunderstorm warning, etc.) presents an immediate threat to individuals on the campus, the following plan will be activated:

• If outside, seek shelter inside of the nearest campus building.

• If inside, all individuals should immediately move to the center hallways of the campus buildings. Close the windows and doors as you leave the room. Close blinds/curtains to protect from flying glass.

• If time permits, disconnect all computer equipment before leaving the work area.

• Avoid the Multipurpose Room, Library, or any other area with wide roof spans.

• Use “head tuck” position when appropriate to protect from flying objects.

• Do not leave the center hallway areas until told to do so by authorized personnel. You will be notified when it is safe to return to your work area or classroom.

• It is very likely that phone service and electricity will be cut off during the storm. Do not rely on the phones for receipt of information. Follow the verbal directions of designated Montgomery Community College personnel.

If you observe a suspicious object or potential bomb on campus, follow the procedures listed below:

• Do not handle the object.
• Clear the area immediately.
• Dial 9-911 from an MCC office phone or 911 from a pay phone. DO NOT USE ANY MOBILE

COMMUNICATION DEVICES (CELL PHONES, RADIOS, ETC.)

• Call the Switchboard at ext. 600. They will notify the President and other administration.

If a threatening call is received and the call can be transferred, the call should be directed to the President. If the President is not available, the next available administrator should receive the call.

The person receiving the call should keep the caller on the phone as long as possible and record the following information (a Bomb Threat Report Form is located on the S: drive):

• Time of call
• Estimated age and gender of the caller
• Any noticeable speech patterns, accents, possible nationality, etc.
• Emotional state of the caller
• Background noises

Ask the caller the following questions:

• When is the bomb going to explode?
• Where is the bomb located?
• What kind of bomb is it?
• What does the bomb look like?
• Why did you place the bomb here?

Record any responses the caller gives you.

After the call is completed:

• If you feel that an emergency exists, evacuate immediately. Do not use the fire alarm!
• Call the Switchboard at ext. 600 on a land-line phone. They will notify the President, other administrators, and the proper authorities.
• Follow the emergency evacuation plan for the building you are in and report to your designated evacuation site.
• DO NOT TURN ON/OFF ANY ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT INCLUDING LIGHTS.
• If the building is evacuated, school personnel and law enforcement will search the building.
• DO NOT MOVE ANYTHING TO SEARCH FOR THE BOMB.
• DO NOT OPEN DRAWERS, DOORS, OR WINDOWS.
• DO NOT USE ANY MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICES (CELL PHONES, 2-WAY RADIOS, ETC.).
• Do not return to the building until “all clear” is given by law enforcement.

Television, radio, and newspapers provide an excellent conduit for getting information to large numbers of people. As a result, information shared with the news media should be both timely and accurate. Misinformation, speculation, and “bits and pieces” of the story can be both confusing and damaging. Therefore, faculty and staff should refrain from speaking with the press.

The President of the College or designated administrator shall be the only spokesperson to respond to the media. Reporters and photographers should be kept away from the scene until the President or designated administrator gives approval.