University of Virginia Vice President for Student AffairsRotunda at U.Va.Rotunda at U.Va.
Biography of Patricia M. LampkinOrganization & CommitteesCommunicationsFormsStaffHome

Communications

Date: February 17, 2013

To: All U.Va. Students

From: Patricia M. Lampkin, Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer

Re: “Take 3” Right Now to be Prepared for an Emergency

 

Dear Students:


Being prepared is one of the best ways to ensure safety during an emergency. Please “Take 3” minutes to review this important information from the Office of Emergency Preparedness. With each of us doing our part, we will be ready if an emergency strikes.


Sincerely,


Patricia M. Lampkin
Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer


STUDENTS
TAKE 3 for EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

 

Everyone needs to be prepared to act in an emergency. In any emergency, follow the directions of the emergency responders.


Please TAKE 3 minutes to consider these three things:

  • How you will be notified in an emergency
  • Where you would evacuate from class or residence
  • Where you would shelter in place in class or residence

NOTIFICATION:

  • U.Va. Alerts: You will receive an SMS text message or email if you are signed up for U.Va. Alerts. If you have not signed up, you are encouraged to do so at www.virginia.edu/uvaalerts.
  • Alertus Desktop Notification: This software is available for you to install on your personal desktop/laptop computer. When on, it will override any program you may be using, and the alert will be displayed. We encourage you to download Alertus at www.its.virginia.edu/software/desktopalert.
  • Other notification tools:
    • Siren - If you are outside, you may hear a siren followed by a public address message detailing the emergency event and giving brief instructions; this will be repeated three times. To preview the sounds of the siren and all-clear horn, go to www.virginia.edu/emergency (see Emergency Horns and Sirens on the right hand side of the page).
    • LED - If you are in a large classroom, you may hear a tone and see the alert message on an LED screen.
    • LCD - If you are in a common area, you may see the alert message on an LCD screen.
    • Homepage - If you are on U.Va.’s homepage, the alert message will be posted over the page. You will be directed to the homepage for all updates.

 

EVACUATION:

  • Leave using the nearest exit or an alternate if the nearest exit is not accessible.
  • Never use an elevator.
  • Take personal belongings (keys, purse, wallet, phone, etc.), but do not delay your exit in doing so.
  • Once outside, go to the designated assembly area.
  • Follow directions of the police, fire responders, and University officials. If you are evacuating from your residence hall, members of the Resident Staff will provide directions.
  • If you are unable to exit, move to an area of refuge and let a contact know your location as soon as possible.
  • Know your evacuation site based on your classroom. The list is available here.

SHELTER IN PLACE:

  • Evaluate the situation and choose the most appropriate shelter location. For example:
    • Severe weather/earthquake: lowest interior space away from windows.
    • Violence: secure, enclosed space, behind solid objects and away from doors.
  • Move to shelter, and take personal items if space allows.
  • Remain sheltered until instructed that it is safe to leave.
  • If safe to do so, monitor news sites for the latest information.

Download the Emergency Procedures Poster
Don’t Be a Hero – Do Not Exceed Your Training

 

If you would like more information or training, email uvaoep@virginia.edu with your questions or contact information.