Emergency Response - Office of Risk Management

Office of Risk Management > Emergency Response

For a complete, printable copy of the Emergency Management Plan click on the appropriate version below.

Student (pdf.) Faculty/Staff (pdf.) EMT/ERT (pdf.)

Emergency Contact Numbers	General Information	Gas Leak/ Flooding
Power Outages	Evacuation of Persons With Limited Mobility/ Special Needs	Building Evacuation/ Elevator Entrapment
Injury Reporting/Medical Facilities	Severe Weather/ Tornado	Fire Procedures
Suspicious Package/ Bomb Threat	Active Shooter	Mental Health
Environmental, Chemical & Blood-borne Incidents	First Aid

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS

Behavioral Intervention Team .........615-966-2273
Campus Security ..............................615-966-7600
Disability Services ...........................615-966-5737
Facilities ...........................................615-966-5900
Health Services ................................615-966-6304

Lipscomb University makes every effort to protect the safety of everyone on campus along with the larger community through educational training, crisis and continuity preparation, and structural mitigation.; However, safety is ultimately the responsibility of each individual. Use your own common sense and good judgment in assessing risks and taking appropriate action. The information provided in this guide is exactly that, a guide for actions to take in a crisis.

In the event of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Additionally, Lipscomb Security & Safety can be reached by dialing 966-7600 for non-life threatening emergencies.

A variety of resources are utilized to disseminate critical information in the event of an emergency. Our text messaging system, LU Alert, will be used as a means of communication to the campus community in the event of an emergency. Registration for LU Alert can be accessed at lualert.lipscomb.edu. Other communication methods used by the university during an emergency may include:

University Email
University Website
Calling Trees
Radio Stations

GAS LEAK/FLOODING

Cease all operations immediately.
Do not switch lights on or off.
Evacuate as soon as possible, notify others as you go.
Leave the area and then dial 911.
After placing the 911 call, contact Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
Do not re-enter the building until cleared by authorized agency.

Flooding

If flooding occurs because of a plumbing failure or other problems, stop using all electrical devices.
Between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, notify the Facilities Department at 966-5900.
After hours, notify Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.

POWER OUTAGES

Between 7:00 am and 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, notify the Facilities Department at 966-5900.
After hours, notify Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
If evacuation of the building is required, exit via stairways. Do not use elevators. Seek out disabled persons and provide assistance if it is within your abilities.

EVACUATION OF PERSONS WITH LIMITED MOBILITY/SPECIAL NEEDS

To ensure personal safety in emergency situations, the following guidelines should be observed by students or employees with disabilities in advance of an emergency. Notify instructors/classmates or co-workers/supervisor of the type of assistance you need during an emergency situation. In addition, students should notify Student Disability Services at 966-5737.

In the event of a fire, immediate and complete evacuations are preferred if it can be accomplished in a safe manner. If immediate and complete evacuation is not possible, ask someone to assist you to a "safe area," such as an enclosed stairwell, until emergency personnel arrive. In addition, you should ask a second person to immediately notify emergency personnel of your location and the type of assistance required.

In the event of a tornado warning, you should immediately proceed to the lowest floor of the building. Request assistance from instructors or classmates if needed. Once you have reached the lowest possible floor, remain in the corridors away from windows and exterior doors.

Pre-planning is essential to a safe evacuation. In the event of any evacuation, help yourself and rescuers by providing them with information about your needs and the best ways to assist you since people may not be aware of your circumstances or how to help.

This can be accomplished by self-identifying to Student Disability Services at 966-5737.

Students living in Residence Halls should also inform their Head Resident and Resident Assistants and identify a specific place to meet in the event of an emergency.

Areas of Rescue by Building

These areas have been designated as "areas of rescue" for any faculty, staff, student or guest who have limited mobility or needs special assistance. Relocate and remain in these areas for assistance by emergency responders.

Burton Health Sciences Building - south (Swang) side handicap accessible entrance
Bennett Campus Center - front handicap accessible ramp or rear loading dock
McFarland Science Center - Ward hall entrance
Crisman Administration Center - rear handicap access ramp
Fanning Hall - rear entrance
Elam Hall - basement level administration east side handicap access/dorm level exit to back entrance
Sewell Hall - basement level Johnson Hall side/dorm level exit to front entrance
High Rise - basement level entrance/exit or front of building main level
Allen Arena - Gold level entrance/exit or loading dock
Ezell Center - front of building toward Belmont Blvd. side
Swang - west (Library) side handicap access ramp
Johnson Hall - West (Swang) side entrance for dorm level old section/new section lower level Sewell Hall side/basement administration exit to Sewell Hall side; all migrating toward Allen Arena Circle
Beaman Library - front handicap accessible ramp or loading dock west side

BUILDING EVACUATION/ELEVATOR ENTRAPMENT

Many situations require building evacuation. In the event that a fire alarm sounds or building evacuation is otherwise communicated to you:

Safely stop your work.
Remain calm and orderly
Gather your personal belongings quickly.
Close doors and windows.
Never prop stairwell doors open.
If time permits, turn off the power to all electrical equipment.
Walk quickly but do not run to the nearest safe exit.
Do not use the elevators.
Follow instructions by your Building Coordinator, Police or other properly identified emergency personnel.
Go to the predetermined area and report to your Building Coordinator or designated personnel.

Elevator Entrapment

Call Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600 or activate the emergency phone inside elevator car.
Relay how many people are trapped, the condition of the passengers, the name of the building, and the floor that the elevator car is on.
Advise any passengers to stay calm. Do not attempt self rescue as the elevator may move or restart. Elevators are very safe and designed to protect passengers.

INJURY REPORTING/MEDICAL FACILITIES

For all life threatening emergencies, dial 911. The 911 dispatcher will summon an ambulance and other emergency services as needed.
STUDENTS: For non-life threatening injuries, visit Lipscomb Health Services in the basement of Elam 966-6304 for medical treatment. If after normal business hours, contact Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
EMPLOYEES: For non-life threatening injuries unrelated to work, seek treatment at your medical provider of choice. For non-threatening work-related injuries, please see the medical staff at Lipscomb Health Services for an initial assessment of your condition. Report your work-related injuries to your supervisor as soon as possible; you and your supervisor will need to complete a First Report of Injury Form.

Medical Facilities

University Health Services
Elam Hall Basement
615-966-6304

SEVERE WEATHER/TORNADO

In the event of a tornado, you are ultimately responsible for finding safe shelter while on Lipscomb University's campus. The best places to seek shelter are in buildings with basements.

These buildings have basements:

McFarland Hall of Science	Sewell Hall
Crisman Administration Center	Johnson Hall
Burton Health Sciences Center	Allen Arena
Elam Hall	High Rise Hall
Bennett Campus Center	McQuidy/SAC

*Note that some of these basements are quite small

Types of Tornado Alerts

Tornado Watch - conditions exist that could allow for the potential development of a tornado.

Tornado Warning - a tornado has been reported or conditions are present to make the development of a tornado imminent.

Head residents have been instructed and trained on the appropriated evacuation plan during a tornado or severe weather. Residental students should follow the instructions of their Head Resident or Resident Assistant regarding evacuation and shelter sites. Tornado drills are conducted in every resident hall each semester.

If severe weather occurs after normal working hours, go to the basement or the lowest level of the building in which you are located. Go to an interior room or hallway away from windows, outside doors and exterior walls.

Persons with Disabilities

Persons with disabilities who are mobility impaired must make plans regarding safe shelter locations in the event of severe weather. If a power outage occurs during severe weather, elevators may not work. Go to a small interior stairwell, stay away from windows and exterior walls. Tell someone where you will be going and take a cell phone if possible.

Guidelines during severe weather

Close hallway doors as you leave to shield the corridors from flying debris.
Stay away from windows.
Stay calm and alert.
LU Alert will update and instruct during a severe weather event.
If there are injuries or other emergencies caused by the storm, dial 911.
Report locations of trapped persons, making note of persons with injuries and / or disabilities.

FIRE PROCEDURES

In the event of a fire, do the following:

Immediately activate the building fire alarm system.
Assist any person in immediate danger to safety, if it can be accomplished without risk to yourself.
If the fire is small enough, use a nearby fire extinguisher to control and extinguish the fire. Do not fight the fire if these conditions exist:
- The fire is too large or out-of-control (larger than the size of a small trash can.)
- If the atmosphere is toxic.
If the first attempts to put out the fire do not succeed, evacuate the building immediately.
Doors, and if possible, windows should be closed as the last person leaves a room or area.
When exiting through a closed interior door, check door with the back of your hand for excessive heat in case fire is on the other side.
Follow instructions of your Building Coordinator, Resident Assistant or Head Resident who will help in th evacuation procedure.
Do not use elevators - use building stairwells.
Once outside of the building, stay at least 25 feet away from the building and do not attempt to re-enter unless directed to do so by emergency personnel. Dial 911 from a safe location if emergency personnel have not arrived.

If you live in on-campus housing, your Head Resident and Resident Assistants will assist in the evacuation procedures for your specific dorm. Fire drills are conducted regularly in all Lipscomb University housing units.

Laboratory Fire Procedures

If you are in a chemistry or biology laboratory and hear the fire alarm, please adhere to the following:

All containers of infectious or highly flammable materials should be placed into autoclaves, incubators, refridgerators, or freezers.
Follow Fire Procedures as per the above.

Laboratory personnel evacuated from the building in an emergency that may be contaminated with an infectious agent due to exposure or release must do the following:

Prevent others from becoming exposed or contaminated.
Take self-protective measures by removing contaminated clothing if possible.
Wait for emergency decontamination by emergency response personnel.

SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE/BOMB THREAT

Do not handle the package. Move away and dial 911 if you feel threatened.
If you have opened a suspicious package or letter:
- Dial 911 or contact Lipscomb Security 966-7600.
- Leave the package or envelope in place and move away slowly.
- Leave the room slowly, notifying others to leave the room also, and closing doors behind as you go.
- Notify others in the building to evacuate.
Do not operate any power switches.
Do not activate the fire alarm.
Do not allow re-entry into the area/office suite where the package is located
Follow the instructions you will receive from Lipscomb Security & Safety or other recognized authorities.

Bomb Threat

If you receive a bomb threat over the telephone, take these actions:

Stay Calm.
Take notes. Try to obtain the following information from the caller:
- Who are you?
- Why are you doing this?
- What time is the bomb set to explode?
- What does it look like?
- Who else have you told?
- What is your organization?
- Where has the bomb been placed?
- What type of bomb is it?
- Where are you calling from?
Have a co-worker or another person dial Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600 and relay the facts.
Write information down per the caller and have co-workers relay information to Lipscomb Security & Safety or responding Metro Bomb Squad.
Try to keep the caller on the phone. Listen for any background noises, voice inflection or accents, and anything else that would help determine the origin of the call.
Evacuate the building upon instructions from Lipscomb Security & Safety or other emergency responders.

ACTIVE SHOOTER

When a hostile person(s) is actively causing deadly harm or the imminent threat of deadly harm, Lipscomb University recommends the following precautions to all students, employees and guests of the campus.

Dial 911. Report the situation and your location. If you can safely call Lipscomb Security after placing the 911 call alert them to the situation.
If you cannot safely evacuate the building, lock yourself in your current room.
Do not stay in an open hallway or common area.
Do not sound the fire alarm. A fire alarm requires everyone to evacuate the building, which could place them in more danger.
Barricade yourself in the room using furniture or anything you can push against the door.
Lock windows. Close blinds or curtains. Turnoff lights.
Stay away from windows and doors.
Turn all audio equipment off. Switch cell phone to silent or vibrate.
Stay calm and be as quiet as possible.
If you are unable to barricade yourself away from your intruder, you must decide what action to take.
You can try to hide, but make sure it is a well-hidden place so you will not be found as the intruder searches for victims.
If you think you can safely make it outside the building by running, do so. If you decide to run, do not run in a straight line. Use trees, vehicles or any other objects to block yourself from view as you run. If the intruder is causing death or serious physical injury an you are unable to run or hide, you may choose to play dead if other victims are around you.
If caught in an open area in direct contact with the intruder, you have the option to fight back. This is very dangerous but may be your only option and will be a strictly personal decision.
Once the police arrive, obey all instructions. Make sure to avoid quick and abrupt movements so as not to be confused for the intruder.

The FBI and other investigative bodies have repeatedly found that there is no accurate profile of school shooters. However, several clear behavioral warning signs have been identified which are cause for concern.

Threatens harm or talks about killing other students, faculty or staff.
Constantly starts or participates in fights.
Loses temper or self-control easily.
Assaults others repeatedly.
Possesses or has a preoccupation with weapons.
Becomes frustrated easily and converts frustration into uncontrollable physical violence.

If any member of the university community believes that a student is an imminent risk for violent or suicidal behavior, dial 911 immediately. Students or employees believed to be a possible risk for violent or suicidal behavior, but not an imminent threat, should be reported to the Lipscomb University Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) for evaluation. To report a concern to the BIT call 615-966-CARE (2273).

MENTAL HEALTH

It is important for Lipscomb University students and employees to recognize signs of distress and take appropriate action. Signs of distress may include:

Listlessness, lack of energy, or falling asleep in class or at work.
Poor attendance at class or work.
Marked change in personal hygiene, appearance or behavior.
Isolation from others.
Impaired speech or garbled, disjointed thoughts.
Threat of harming self or others.
Behavior that regularly interferes with the normal activities of the classroom or workplace.
Overtly suicidal statements.
High levels of irritability.
Alcohol or other drug abuse.
Dramatic weight loss or weight gain.
Bizarre or strange behavior obviously inappropriate to the situation.
Emotions (e.g. fearfulness, tearfulness, or nervousness) displayed to an extreme degree or for prolonged periods.
Excessive procrastination or very poorly prepared work, if inconsistent with previous work.

Suicide Intervention

Suicide attempts and suicidal ideation are not uncommon occurrences on college campuses. Typical warning signs of suicidal ideation include:

Overtly suicidal statements
Giving away prized possessions
Anxiety
Depression
Radical change in behavior
Ambivalence about the future

If you observe a student or employee in extreme distress, dial 911.

Students in non-emergency distress should visit the Lipscomb University Counseling Center (Basement of Elam Hall) 615-966-5737.

The staff at the University Counseling Center is available for phone consultations regarding student behavior and assistance making student referrals.

Students or employees believed to be a possible risk for violent or suicidal behavior, but not an imminent threat, should be reported to the Lipscomb University Behavioral Team (BIT) for evaluation. To report a concern to the BIT, call 615-966-CARE (2273).

ENVIRONMENTAL, CHEMICAL & BLOOD-BORNE INCIDENTS

If you discover a spilled chemical, ensure your safety and the safety of others by immediately evacuating the area.
Seal off the area by closing the door as you leave and do not let others enter the area.
Activate the Emergency Plan by calling the environmental emergency contact posted in each lab. If you are unable to reach someone on the emergency contact list, call Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
Identify your specific building, floor and room number where the spill is located, the amount of material spilled and its identity, if known,
Go to a safe location and wait for emergency responders. For spills outdoors, remember to stay uphill and upwind.
Do not attemt to clean up the spill unless you have been trained.

Chemical Contact with Your Clothes, Body or Eyes

Remove contaminated clothing immediately. Failure to do so may increase the severity of injuries.
Proceed to nearest safety shower/eyewash station and flush eyes, and all contaminated portions of your body for at least 15 minutes.
In case of chemicals getting into eyes, it may be necessary to hold the eyes open to ensure chemicals are adequately removed.
In all cases where a chemical has entered eyes, or where exposure to hydrofluoric acid is suspected, medical attention must be received immediately.
Removed clothing must be properly handled and disposed of in order to avoid spreading contamination.
Advise emergency personnel of your injuries and seek medical attention.

Spills Involving Blood or Other Bodily Fluids

If the blood or bodliy fluid is not your own, do not touch material or otherwise attempt to clean it up.
Activate the Emergency Plan by calling the environmental emergency contact posted in each lab. If you are unable to reach someone on the emergency contact list, call Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
Secure the area and do not allow others to come in contact with the material.
If you come in contact with the material:
- Immediately wash the affected area with soap and water paying close attention to any areas of broken skin.
- If material entered nose or mouth, rinse with water repeatedly.
- Notify your supervisor and Student Health Services of possible exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens.
Do not attempt to clean up the materials unless you have been trained and authorized to do so.

Biological Incident

The release or spill of biohazardous material will require a different response based on several factors including the agent and the associated risks, the amount of material spilled, type of spill, and the location of the spill.

Personnel Exposure to Infectious Material

In the event that a substance enters the mouth, eyes, lungs or penetrates/comes in contact with skin, follow the instructions below and seek immediate medical attention.

Remove all contaminated clothing and place it in a biohazard bag or a biohazard waste container.
Vigorously wash exposed area (if possible) with soap and water or disinfectant for one minute. If mouth or eyes are exposed, flush with water for one minute.
If others are present in the laboratory, warn them of the biohazard.
Report the spill to the Lab Supervisor and/or the environmental emergency contact posted in each lab. If you are unable to reach someone on the emergency contact list, call Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
If an employee is injured during work, call or go to Health Services for immediate assistance. For emergencies, call 911.

FIRST AID

Burns

For major burns, dial 911 for emergency medial assistance. Until an emergency unit arrives take the following actions:

Do not remove burnt clothing. However, do make sure the victim is no longer in contact with smoldering materials or exposed to smoke or heat.
Do not immerse severe, large burns in cold water. Doing so could cause shock.
Check for signs of circulation (breathing, coughing or movement.) If there is no breathing or sign of circulation, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR or use AED's located in all major buildings).
Cover the area of the burn. Use a cool, moist,sterile bandage; clean, moist cloth or towels.

For minor burns, including second-degree burns limited to an area no larger that 2 to 3 inches in diameter, take the following actions:

Cool the burn. Hold the burned ar ea under cold running water for at least 5 minutes, or until the pain subsides. If this is impractical, immerse the burn in cold water or cool it with cold compresses. Do not put ice on the burn.
Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage. Wrap the gauze loosely to avoid putting pressure on burned skin. Seek medical attention to avoid infection.

Chemical Burns

If a chemical burns the skin, follow these steps:

Dial 911 if burn area is deep or large. If you seek emergency assistance, bring the chemcial container or a complete description of the substance with you for identification.
Remove the cause of the burn by flushing the chemicals off the skins surface with cool, running water for 15 minutes or more. If the burning chemical is a powder-like substance such as lime, brush it off the skin before flushing.
Remove clothing or jewelry that has been contaminated by the chemical.
Wrap the burned area loosely with a dry, sterile dressing or a clean cloth.
Consult Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for further instructions.

Chemical Splash In the Eye

If a chemical splashes into your eye, take these steps immediately:

Flush your eye with water. Use clean, lukewarm tap water for at least 15 minutes. Do not rub eyes or use any eye drops.
Wash your hands with soap and water. Thoroughly rinse your hands to be sure no chemical or soap is left on them. Your first goal is to get the chemical off the surface of your eye, but then you need to make sure to remove the chemical from your hands.
Remove contact lens. If they did not come out during flushing your eyes with water, take them out now.
Seek medical attention.

Head or Spinal Injury

If you suspect someone has a spinal injury:

Dial 911 immediately.
Keep the person in the same position as he or she was found. Keep the person still. Gently place heavy towels, backpacks or purses on both sides of the neck or hold the head and neck still to prevent movement.
Provide as much first aid as possible without moving the person's head or neck. If the person shows no signs of circulation (breathing, coughing or movement), begin CPR (if trained), but do not tilt the head back to open the airway. Use your fingers to gently grasp the jaw and lift it forward.

Choking

Have a bystander dial 911 to summon an ambulance.
Administer the Heimlich Maneuver as follows:
- Stand behind the person. Wrap your arms around their waste. Tip the person forward slightly.
- Make a fist with one hand. Position it slightly above the person's navel.
- Grasp the fist with the other hand. Press hard into the abdomen with a quick, upward thrust - as if trying to lift the person up.
- Repeat until the blockage is dislodged.

Heart Attack

If you or someone else may be having a heart attack:

Dial 911. Do not tough out the symptoms of a heart attack. If calling 911 from a cell phone, have another person contact Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
Locate the nearest AED and follow the instructions prompted by the difibulator unit.
Consider taking an aspirin if available.

Heat Emergency

Move the person out of the sun and into a shady or air-conditioned space.
Dial 911. If calling 911 from a cell phone, also contact Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
Cool the person by covering them with damp sheets or by spraying lightly with cool water if possible. Direct air onto the person with a fan or newspaper.

Seizure

Dial 911. If calling 911 from a cell phone, also contact Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
Do not restrain person having seizure or convulsions.
Protect victim during seizure. Place victim's on his/her side and protect head and limbs.
Do not force anything into victim's mouth.

Shock

If you suspect shock, even if the person seems normal after an injury:

Dial 911. If calling 911 from a cell phone, also contact Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
Have the person lie down on his or her back feet higher than the head. If raising the legs causes further pain or injury, keep him/her flat. Keep the person still.
Check for signs of circulation. If signs are absent begin CPR if trained.
Keep the person warm and comfortable. Loosen belt(s) and tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket to maintain body temperature. Even if the person complains of thirst, do not give them anything food/drink by mouth.
If the person vomits or bleeds from the mouth, turn to his/her side to prevent choking.

Severe Bleeding

Dial 911 and seek medical attention from Health Services and/or Lipscomb Security & Safety at 966-7600.
Stop bleeding by applying direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage.
If possible, elevate the wound above the level of the heart.
Hold the pressure continuously for 5 to 10 minutes.
Do not keep checking to see if the bleeding has stopped as this may damage or dislodge the fresh clot that has formed.