Procedures for Reporting Crimes and Emergencies

The following steps should be taken to report criminal actions or other emergencies occurring on campus:

• If the emergency occurs in the residence hall, contact the Residential Life Coordinator or Security
• If the emergency occurs on the campus away from the residence hall, contact Security (ext. 7857)
• If the emergency occurs away from the campus, Call 911

Note: Contact the Dean of Students for follow up

Campus Safety Program

As a part of student orientation, a comprehensive program on campus safety and campus violence is conducted by Campus Security and the Jackson Police Department. Crime prevention presentations are routinely scheduled for campus residents once per month in the residence halls, as well as, with faculty and staff groups. Topics generally covered involve basic safety and security tips to prevent crime against persons and property. Also, various workshops are conducted by local agencies in and out of the residence halls such as Crime and You. Crime Prevention, Neighborhood Watch, Emergency Management, Drug and Alcohol,etc. All programs are presented and designed for questions and answers. Public announcements are made by using flyers and a Calendar of Events which are distributed to the campus community.

The Campus Safety program is designed to educate and provide quality information to the immediate community about the prevention of crime.

The Department provides the following:

• Monthly seminars are held in the residence halls and the Student Union Building by Campus Security and other local safety agencies.
• Students are given a copy of “How to Report Sexual Assault” and “How to Report Medical Emergencies”. These two procedures are also posted in classrooms and dormitory rooms.
• Through Faculty/Staff development Crime and Campus Safety workshops are conducted twice an academic year.

 

 

PREPARATION FOR EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Are You Prepared?

The College is committed to the safety and security of all members of the campus community. In times of emergency, the College will provide appropriate campus-wide response to assure life safety and minimize losses. In addition, the community emergency services are committed to serving us to their fullest potential. So, when in doubt as to the severity of an incident, call 911 and then Campus Security at 7857. The College will provide instructions about specific situations and issues such as taking shelter inside campus buildings or evacuating. Students, faculty, and staff can prepare for emergencies by following these guidelines.

This guide is intended to help staff, faculty, and students respond to emergency situations, which may occur on the campus of Tougaloo College. Such emergencies can occur at any time and without warning, but their effects can be minimized if proper emergency procedures are followed.

Evacuation Procedures

• Evacuate building using the nearest exit; or use an alternate exit if the nearest exit is blocked or unsafe.
• Secure any hazardous materials or equipment before leaving.
• Provide assistance to persons with disabilities or special needs.
• Evacuate at least 250 feet from buildings.
• Designate an evacuation assembly point.
• DO NOT re- the building until an all clear is given by Campus Security.

Campus Lock Down

When Campus is placed in a lock down status, the following procedures will apply:

• Residential Housing - Proceed to assigned room and lock the door.
• Campus Grounds - Enter the nearest building. Proceed to a classroom or office with a lockable door if possible.
• Classroom/Admin. Buildings - Proceed to a classroom or office with a lockable door if possible.
• Building Managers/Deans are responsible for locking exterior doors to their respective buildings.
• RAs/Dorm Coordinators are responsible for locking exterior doors to their respective buildings.
• All non-emergency vehicles will be prohibited from entering the campus.
• Stay away from doors and windows.
• Remain calm and quiet.
• Remain in a secure location until an all clear is given by Campus Security.

Fire

• Activate the nearest fire alarm pull station and if possible, call Campus Security at ext. 7857.
• Evacuate the building.
• Evacuate at least 250 feet from the building.
• DO NOT re-enter the building until an all clear is given by Campus Security.

Power Outage

• Remain Calm.
• Provide assistance to others if necessary.
• Move cautiously to a lighted area.

Severe Weather

The following procedures will apply when the campus receives notice of a severe weather threat for the area.

• Residential Housing - Follow instructions of dorm staff for shelter procedures.
• Campus Grounds - Enter the nearest building. Proceed to the lowest floor or inner room if possible; seek cover under a desk or sturdy table.
• Classroom/Admin. Buildings - Proceed to the lowest floor or inner room if possible; seek cover under a desk or sturdy table.
• Stay away from windows.
• Assist persons with disabilities or special needs.
• Remain until an all clear is given by campus security.

Suspicious Person

Do not approach or attempt to detain the person Contact Campus Security immediately with the following information:

• Physical description - Race, sex, height, weight, and clothing.
• Behavior being exhibited.
• Vehicle description and license plate number if driving.
• Location and / or direction of travel.

Suspicious Object

• Do not touch, smell or disturb object.
• Notify Campus Security immediately at ext.7857.
• Notify a supervisor, dorm manager or department head.
• Prepare to evacuate.
• Failure to evacuate or follow proper procedures will be at your own risk.

If you have any questions, contact:

Earnest Manuel, Chief of Security
601-977-7876 or 601-977-7857
Email: emanuel@tougaloo.edu

Download Emergency Procedures PDF