Emergency Procedures by Emergency Type
Active shooter incidents—situations in which an individual is actively using a firearm—are highly unpredictable and rapidly evolving. While such incidents are rare, being prepared can help protect lives. The following actions are recommended for your safety. Always use your best judgment and follow the directions of law enforcement and emergency personnel.
If Active Shooter Enters Your Building
- Lock the room you are in if you can.
- If the room cannot be locked, try to safely get to a nearby location that can be secured.
- Exit the building if it is safe to do so.
If Active Shooter Enters Room You're In
Run
- Have an escape route and plan in mind.
- Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
- Leave your belongings behind.
- Help others escape if possible.
- Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active shooter may be.
- Follow the instructions of police officers and keep hands visible.
- Do not attempt to move wounded people.
Hide
- Remain out of the active shooter’s view.
- Your hideout should provide protection if shots are fired in your direction (i.e. an office with a closed and locked door).
- Blockade the door with heavy furniture, turn off the lights, close blinds, and silence cell phones.
- Your location shouldn’t trap you or restrict your options for movement.
- Remain quiet and do not answer the door until emergency personnel arrive.
Fight
As a last resort, and only when you are in immediate danger, attempt to incapacitate the active shooter.
- Act aggressively against him/her.
- Throw items and improvise weapons.
- Yell and fight.
- Commit to your actions and follow through.
Under All Circumstances
If you decide to flee during an active shooter situation, make sure you have an escape route and plan.
Do not carry anything while fleeing; move quickly, keep your hands visible, and follow the instructions of any police officers you may encounter.
Do not attempt to remove injured people; instead leave wounded victims where they are and notify authorities of their location as soon as possible.
Alcohol or drug poisoning is a medical emergency. If you believe someone may be experiencing an overdose or poisoning, seek help immediately. Prompt medical intervention can save a life.
If the Situation is Life-Threatening
- Call 911 immediately.
- Then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police at 401-456-8888 so officers can quickly direct emergency responders to the exact campus location.
- If you are near a Blue Light Emergency Phone, press the emergency button to connect directly with Campus Police.
Stay with the Individual Until Help Arrives
- Keep the person awake if possible.
- If they are unconscious but breathing, place them on their side (recovery position) to help prevent choking.
- Do not leave the person alone or assume they will "sleep it off."
- Do not give them food, coffee, medication, or encourage them to walk or shower.
Warning Signs of Alcohol or Drug Poisoning
Seek immediate medical assistance if the person:
- Cannot be awakened or is unresponsive.
- Is confused, disoriented, or unable to communicate.
- Is vomiting repeatedly or while unconscious.
- Has slow, irregular, or stopped breathing.
- Has pale, bluish, cold, or clammy skin.
- Experiences seizures.
- Has taken alcohol in combination with prescription medications or other drugs.
- Has sustained a fall, head injury, or other traumatic injury.
Remember
Alcohol and drug poisoning can become life-threatening very quickly. When in doubt, call 911 immediately. It is always better to seek medical evaluation than to delay treatment.
Bomb threats are most often received by telephone and are typically intended to cause fear or disruption. All bomb threats should be treated as serious and as a potential danger to the campus community.
If you receive a bomb threat or if you observe a suspicious object/material or suspect a potential bomb on campus, immediately call the Camus Police at 401.456.8888 or press the emergency button on any Blue Light phone.
If You Find a Suspicious Object/Material
- Do not handle the object or material.
- Immediately evacuate the area.
- Call Campus Police at 401-456-8888 or press the emergency button on any Blue Light phone.
- Report the location and description of the object.
- Do not use elevators.
- Do not activate the building alarm.
- Do not open drawers or cabinets.
- Do not turn on/off electrical devices or switches (light switches, cell phones, radios, or any other kind of electrical device).
- Be alert for secondary explosive devices (bombs placed at the scene of an ongoing response meant to cause casualties among responders)
If You Receive a Bomb Threat By Telephone
- Remain calm and take the caller seriously.
- Keep the caller on the line as long as possible and ask questions using the checklist below as a guide.
- Write down exactly what is said and note any observations, including background noises, voice characteristics, and other details.
- If possible, have a co-worker call RIC Campus Police at 401-456-8888 (or 9-1-1) while you continue speaking with the caller.
- Immediately contact RIC Campus Police (or 9-1-1) once the call ends.
- Notify your supervisor or department head as soon as possible.
- RIC Campus Police will assess the threat and determine whether evacuation is necessary. If evacuation is directed, take personal belongings and proceed to a designated evacuation assembly area. Weather permitting, you may be directed to relocate to another building.
- Do not re-enter the area until cleared by RIC Campus Police or emergency personnel.
A civil disturbance may include protests, demonstrations, disruptive gatherings, or other activities that interfere with College operations or pose a threat to the safety of the campus community. Rhode Island College supports the rights of individuals to engage in lawful, peaceful expression; however, any activity that becomes disruptive, threatening, or violent should be reported immediately.
Immediate Threats to Life or Safety
- Call 911 immediately.
- Then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police at 401-456-8888 so officers can coordinate the emergency response on campus.
- If you are near a Blue Light Emergency Phone, press the emergency button to connect directly with Campus Police.
Report a Civil Disturbance
Immediately Notify Campus Police if Observing
- Demonstrations or protests that disrupt College operations or prevent access to buildings.
- Acts of violence or threats of violence.
- Property damage or vandalism.
- Individuals displaying weapons or engaging in unlawful behavior.
- Any situation that appears to be escalating or poses a safety concern.
If Near the Disturbance
- Leave the area if it is safe to do so.
- Avoid confronting or engaging with individuals involved in the disturbance.
- Move to a secure location and remain alert to changing conditions.
- If appropriate, secure your office or classroom by closing and locking doors.
- Follow directions provided by Campus Police or other emergency responders.
- Monitor official Rhode Island College emergency communications for updates and instructions.
Remember
Your personal safety is the priority. Do not attempt to intervene in a violent or potentially dangerous situation. Report the incident promptly and allow trained law enforcement personnel to respond.
A Lockdown is initiated when there is an immediate threat inside or near a campus building, such as an armed or violent individual. The goal is to secure occupants, prevent access to the area, and protect lives until law enforcement resolves the incident.
Lockdown instructions will be communicated through the Rhode Island College Emergency Notification System and other official College communication channels.
If a Lockdown Is Ordered
- Immediately move to the nearest room that can be secured.
- Lock the door. If it cannot be locked, barricade it using available furniture or other heavy objects.
- Turn off lights, silence cell phones, and remain quiet.
- Close windows, blinds, and window coverings, if possible.
- Stay out of sight by moving away from doors and windows.
- Do not open the door for anyone until instructed by law enforcement or College officials.
Additional Guidance
- If you are in a hallway, enter the nearest secure room immediately.
- If you are outdoors, move away from the threat and seek shelter in the nearest secure building. If you cannot safely reach a building, take cover and call 911 when it is safe to do so.
- Do not evacuate because a fire alarm sounds unless you see fire or smoke, are in immediate danger, or are directed to evacuate by law enforcement or emergency responders.
Remain in lockdown until an official all-clear is issued by law enforcement or the Rhode Island College Emergency Notification System.
Facility Evacuation
Evacuate When
- A fire or other life-safety emergency occurs.
- A fire alarm activates (audible and/or visual).
- You are directed to do so by RIC Campus Police or emergency responders
During an Evacuation
- Be familiar with all exits from your work area and building, and know at least two routes out.
- Remain calm and walk quickly to the nearest marked exit. Encourage others to do the same. Do not run.
- Do not use elevators unless specifically directed by emergency personnel.
- Assist individuals with disabilities or access and functional needs if you are willing and able.
- Notify responding emergency personnel if you believe someone may be trapped inside the building.
- Move at least 500 feet away from the building.
- Proceed to the designated assembly (link assembly area map) area and report to your supervisor or department representative for accountability.
- Keep streets, sidewalks, and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and first responders.
- Do not re-enter the building until an “all clear” is given and you are directed to do so by emergency personnel.
Mass Evacuation / Campus-Wide Evacuation
Evacuate When
- Directed by RIC Campus Police or emergency responders
- Notified through RIC emergency notification systems (e.g., RIC Alert, campus messaging, website, social media, digital signage).
During a Campus-Wide Evacuation
- Be aware of your evacuation zone and refer to the campus Evacuation Map (link) for guidance.
- Monitor RIC emergency notifications for updates on evacuation routes, shelters, and other critical instructions.
- Individuals requiring mobility or paratransit assistance should follow instructions provided in RIC emergency notifications or contact RIC Campus Police if directed to do so.
- Do not return to evacuated areas until an official “all clear” is issued through RIC emergency notification systems.
Hazardous Materials and Laboratory Evacuations
If it is safe to do so before evacuating:
- Shut down hazardous operations, including equipment and energy sources connected to hazardous materials.
- Secure or close supplies of hazardous materials, including compressed gas cylinders.
- Leave operations in a safe and stable condition.
- Evacuate immediately and follow facility evacuation procedures.
Evacuating Using Stairs
During an emergency evacuation, elevators should not be used unless directed by emergency personnel. Individuals who are able to use stairs should review the checklist:
Stairwell Emergency Evacuation Checklist
- Inform your department or designated support persons where to meet you during an evacuation.
- Ensure others are aware of your emergency exit route.
- Exit the building and proceed to the designated Evacuation Assembly Area (Link to Assembly Area Map).
- Do not re-enter the building until the RIC Campus Police or emergency responders indicate it is safe to do so.
Evacuating to a Designated Waiting Area/Area of Refuge
Individuals who require assistance evacuating a building should proceed to a Designated Waiting Area/Area of Refuge. These areas are intended to provide a safe location to await assistance from first responders and are designated with a purple outline on the building floor evacuation map.
Designated Waiting Area/Area of Refuge Evacuation Checklist
- Contact your Exit Buddy or meet at your pre-arranged location, as outlined in your plan.
- Follow your identified emergency exit route to the Designated Waiting Area/Area of Refuge.
- Call Campus Police at 401-456-8888 or call or text 9-1-1 to request assistance and provide your location.
- Remain in place and await instructions from emergency responders.
Individuals with Disabilities
Disability-Specific Considerations
Individuals with Vision Disabilities
- Learn at least one primary and one alternate emergency exit route.
- Be familiar with Text-to-9-1-1 to reach emergency responders.
- If assisting, offer an elbow for guidance—do not grasp the individual’s arm.
- Verbally describe surroundings and alert the individual to obstacles.
- When possible, practice evacuation routes periodically to improve familiarity for the individual, service animal, and Exit Buddy.
Individuals with Hearing Disabilities
- Be familiar with Text-to-9-1-1.
- Utilize visual alarm systems such as strobe lights when available.
- Establish an Exit Buddy system.
- If an Exit Buddy will be unavailable, identify a temporary alternate.
Individuals with Mental or Cognitive Disabilities
- Be familiar with Text-to-9-1-1.
- Review evacuation plans with a supervisor or trusted support person.
- Regularly review your plan with Exit Buddies and supervisors to reinforce understanding.
Individuals with Mobility Disabilities
- Be familiar with RIC Campus Police contact 401-456-8888 and call or Text-to-9-1-1.
- Wheelchair evacuation should be performed only by trained personnel, unless there is an immediate, life-threatening emergency.
- Individuals on upper floors may be assisted to a Designated Waiting Area/Area of Refuge or stairwell landing to await responders. Exit Buddies should notify RIC Campus Police or Fire/Rescue of the individual’s location and assistance needs.
- If an individual prefers to be removed from their wheelchair, responders should ask about preferences regarding positioning, number of assistants, use of cushions, and need for medical evaluation.
Individuals with Neurodivergence
- Be familiar with RIC Campus Police contact 401-456-8888 and call or Text-to-9-1-1.
- Loud alarms and flashing lights may cause sensory overload, freezing, or avoidance behaviors.
- Prior experiences may cause fear of uniformed responders.
- Having an Exit Buddy and advance planning is especially important.
- First responders and campus personnel should apply de-escalation strategies and trauma-informed practices.
Assisting Individuals with Disabilities During an Evacuation
During an emergency, offer assistance if it is safe to do so, and always ask the individual how they would like to be assisted. Do not use elevators during a fire alarm unless directed by emergency responders.
Visual Impairments
- Explain the emergency and offer your arm to guide the person to the nearest safe exit.
- Describe obstacles, stairs, and changes in direction as you evacuate.
Hearing Impairments
- Gain the person's attention by waving, tapping their shoulder, or flashing the lights.
- Use gestures, written notes, or speak clearly while facing the individual.
Mobility Impairments
- Ask the individual how you can best assist them.
- If they cannot safely use stairs and there is no immediate danger, assist them to an Area of Refuge or another protected location and notify emergency responders of their exact location.
- Only move or carry someone if there is an immediate life-threatening danger and evacuation cannot wait.
After evacuating, immediately inform Campus Police or responding emergency personnel of the location of anyone awaiting assistance.
Call Campus Police (24/7) at 401-456-8888
Call Local Emergency Responders at 911
Evacuation Planning for Individuals with Access or Functional Needs
Individuals with access or functional needs are encouraged to self-identify and proactively plan for emergencies by working with supervisors, colleagues, classmates, or campus support offices. Planning ahead allows individuals to identify evacuation routes, methods, designated waiting areas, and other supports before an emergency occurs.
Individuals should identify the buildings and floors they regularly occupy on campus. For each location, development of an Evacuation and Communication Plan or an Individual Emergency Evacuation Plan (IEEP) should be considered.
If you discover a fire or hear a fire alarm, evacuate the building immediately. Treat every fire alarm as a real emergency.
If You Discover a Fire
- Activate the nearest fire alarm pull station as you exit the building.
- Call 911 immediately, then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police at 401-456-8888 if it is safe to do so.
- If known, provide the location and nature of the fire.
- Fire extinguishers should only be used by individuals who are trained, and only on small, contained fires.
During Evacuation
- Leave the building immediately using the nearest safe exit.
- Alert others as you evacuate.
- Close doors behind you to help slow the spread of fire and smoke.
- Do not use elevators during a fire emergency.
- If you encounter smoke, stay low and move quickly to the nearest exit.
- If it is safe, assist individuals who may need evacuation assistance. If you cannot assist, notify emergency responders of their location.
After Evacuation
- Proceed to your building's designated assembly area (link) or remain at least 500 feet from the building.
- Keep roadways and building entrances clear for emergency responders.
- Do not re-enter the building until directed to do so by the Fire Department, Campus Police, or other authorized emergency personnel.
R.A.C.E.
If you see a fire:
- Rescue – anyone in immediate danger of the fire.
- Alarm – pull the nearest fire alarm and call fire response.
- Contain – fire by closing all doors in the fire area.
- Extinguish – small fires. If not, leave the area and close the door.
Residence Hall Fire
If you discover a fire or see smoke, activate the nearest fire alarm pull station and evacuate immediately. All residents and guests must leave the building immediately whenever a fire alarm sounds.
If Fire is in Your Room
- Leave your room immediately and close the door behind you to help contain the fire and smoke.
- Do not stop to gather belongings.
- Use the nearest safe stairwell to evacuate. Never use an elevator during a fire.
If You are Elsewhere in the Building
- If you are already in the hallway, do not return to your room.
- Before opening your door, feel it with the back of your hand.
- If the door is cool: Evacuate immediately using the nearest safe exit. Close doors behind you as you leave.
- If the door is hot: Do not open it. Stay in your room, call 911, and provide your exact location. Place towels or clothing around the base of the door to help keep smoke out, open a window if it is safe to do so, and signal emergency responders from the window.
During Evacuation
- Alert others as you leave.
- Do not use elevators.
- If it is safe, assist individuals who may need evacuation assistance. If you cannot assist, notify emergency responders of their location.
- Proceed to your designated assembly area or remain at least 500 feet from the building.
After Evacuation
- Call 911 if the fire has not already been reported.
- Then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police at 401-456-8888.
- Do not re-enter the building until authorized by the Fire Department, Campus Police, or other emergency personnel.
Personnel Exposure / Contamination
- Remove exposed or contaminated individual(s) from the area, unless doing so would create additional risk due to the individual’s medical condition or potential hazards to rescuers.
- Call Campus Police 401-456-8888 or 9-1-1 immediately for medical emergencies or if emergency response is needed.
- During normal business hours, notify RIC Facilities & Operations at 401-456-8262 as soon as possible.
- After hours, call 9-1-1.
- Use the nearest emergency eyewash or safety shower to flush contaminants from eyes or skin. (Link to Emergency Eyewash and Safety Shower Plan: RIC-Universal-Waste-Management-Plan)
- Remove contaminated clothing and place it in a bag, if safe to do so.
- Provide first aid as appropriate.
- Be prepared to provide information and assistance to emergency responders, including the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the material involved.
Spill or Contamination of Equipment / Facilities
Stop the Spill • Warn Others • Isolate the Area • Minimize Exposure
- Be familiar with RIC Lab Safety Procedures. (Link to Lab Safety Brochure: RIC-Lab-Safety-Brochure)
- Prevent the spread of contamination by restricting access to the area to trained and properly protected personnel only.
- Notify RIC notify RIC Facilities & Operations at 401-456-8262 during normal business hours.
- After hours or if conditions are unsafe, call 9-1-1.
- Evacuate individuals from the immediate area to a nearby safe location, where they may be evaluated for contamination if directed by Facilities or emergency responders.
- Do not attempt cleanup or decontamination alone or without appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). (Link to PPE Program: RIC-PPE-Program)
- Cleanup of radioactive, biological, corrosive, or other hazardous materials must only be performed by personnel with proper training and monitoring equipment.
- Attempt spill cleanup only if:
- you are trained to handle the material
- you understand the hazards, and
- it can be done safely
- For liquid spills, use appropriate absorbent materials to contain the spill, if safe.
- Decontaminate equipment and affected areas only under the direction of Facilities.
- Dispose of waste materials according to Facilities procedures and complete the appropriate hazardous waste pickup request as directed. (Link to Universal Waste Management Plan: RIC-Universal-Waste-Management-Plan)
- Remain available to provide information or assistance to RIC Campus Police, Fire/Rescue, Facilities, or other emergency responders.
Release to the Environment (Air, Water, or Soil)
- Stop the release if it can be done safely.
- Follow the procedures outlined above for spill or facility contamination.
- Immediately notify RIC Facilities & Operations at 401-456-8262 or call 9-1-1 if there is any risk to people, property, or the environment.
A hostage situation is a life-threatening emergency. Your safety is the highest priority.
If You Witness a Hostage Situation
- Call 911 immediately.
- Then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police at 401-456-8888, or use a Blue Light Emergency Phone if one is nearby.
- If it is safe to do so, provide:
- The exact location of the incident.
- A description of the individual(s) involved.
- The number of hostages.
- Any known weapons, threats, or injuries.
- If the hostage taker is unaware of your presence, leave the area if it is safe to do so or remain hidden.
- Do not attempt to intervene or negotiate with the individual.
If You Are Taken Hostage
- Remain as calm as possible and follow the hostage taker's instructions.
- Avoid arguing, provoking, or challenging the individual.
- Speak only when necessary and with permission, if appropriate.
- Avoid sudden movements or actions that could be perceived as threatening.
- Observe details about the individual and the situation only if you can do so safely.
- Do not attempt to escape unless you believe remaining in place presents an immediate threat to your life.
- When law enforcement arrives, follow all commands immediately. Officers' first priority is to secure the scene and protect lives.
If someone is seriously injured or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
Then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police at 401-456-8888, or use a Blue Light Emergency Phone to assist emergency responders in locating the incident quickly.
When Calling 911, Be Prepared to Provide
- Your name and callback number.
- The exact location (building and address, floor, and room number if known).
- The nature of the illness or injury.
- Whether the person is conscious and breathing.
- The number of people requiring assistance.
While Waiting for Emergency Responders
- Stay with the individual if it is safe to do so.
- Provide first aid or CPR only if you are trained and able to do so.
- Do not move the injured person unless they are in immediate danger.
- Keep the area clear and have someone meet emergency responders, if possible, to direct them to the scene.
Persons Who Are Disruptive
If an individual is engaging in reckless, disorderly, threatening, or dangerous behavior—including behavior that suggests self-harm—and you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others:
- Call 9-1-1 immediately and/or RIC Campus Police.
Once the Situation is Safe
- If the individual is a student, report the incident through appropriate student conduct or behavioral support channels.
- If the individual is an employee, report the incident to Human Resources or a supervisor, as appropriate.
Persons Who are Distressed
A person who is distressed may display persistent or escalating behaviors, including but not limited to:
- Excessive anxiety, sadness, irritability, or withdrawal
- Confusion, difficulty concentrating, or lack of motivation
- Seeking constant reassurance or attention
- Bizarre, erratic, or concerning behavior
- Statements or behaviors suggesting hopelessness or suicidal thoughts
If you are concerned about someone’s well-being:
- In an emergency or if there is immediate risk, call Campus Police at 401-456-8888 or call 911.
- For students, contact appropriate campus support resources such as:
- Counseling Center
- Health Services
- Dean of Students CARE Team
For employees, contact:
- Human Resources | Current Employee Resources
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- A supervisor or campus support office, as appropriate
You may also seek consultation or guidance from campus behavioral health, threat assessment, or emergency management resources if you are unsure how to proceed.
Please Note: You do not need to determine whether someone is “disruptive” or “distressed” before seeking help. If something feels unsafe or concerning, trust your instincts and reach out for assistance. Early reporting helps connect individuals to support and keeps the campus community safe.
When severe weather threatens the campus, monitor official Rhode Island College emergency notifications, local weather reports, and instructions from public safety officials.
If a Severe Weather Warning Is Issued
- Move immediately to the lowest level of the building, preferably a basement.
- Stay away from windows, glass doors, and exterior walls.
- Interior hallways, stairwells, and restrooms offer the best protection.
- In multi-story buildings, move to a lower floor if you cannot reach the basement.
- Assist individuals with disabilities or others needing assistance if it is safe to do so.
- Remain sheltered until an official all-clear is issued.
If You Are Outdoors
- Seek shelter inside the nearest substantial building immediately.
- Avoid trees, light poles, and other objects that may fall or attract lightning.
- If you are in a vehicle, safely park and move into a sturdy building if possible. If no shelter is available, avoid low-lying areas that may flood.
After the Storm
- Watch for downed power lines, damaged buildings, flooding, and other hazards.
- Report emergencies by calling 911, then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police at 401-456-8888 if the incident is on campus.
Flooding
Flooding can result from severe weather, burst pipes, plumbing failures, or other water emergencies. If flooding threatens your area, take action promptly and follow instructions from emergency personnel. If flooding occurs:
- Do not use elevators. Use stairways if evacuation is necessary.
- If it is safe to do so, move important documents, research materials, chemicals, and sensitive equipment to a secure, elevated location.
- Relocate water-reactive chemicals away from the affected area, if it can be done safely.
- Avoid walking or driving through standing water, as it may conceal electrical hazards or structural damage.
- Evacuate the building if directed by Campus Police, the Fire Department, or other emergency personnel.
- If anyone requires evacuation assistance, notify emergency responders immediately.
Hurricane
Rhode Island College closely monitors hurricanes and tropical storms in coordination with the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) and the National Weather Service. Follow all official College communications and emergency instructions.
Before and During a Hurricane
- Secure important documents, research materials, chemicals, and sensitive equipment, if it is safe to do so.
- Follow instructions to shelter in place or evacuate as directed by College officials or emergency responders.
- If evacuation is ordered, do not use elevators. Use stairways and assist others if it is safe to do so.
- Stay indoors and away from windows and exterior doors until the storm has passed and an official all-clear is issued.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.
If Evacuation Is Ordered
- Follow the College's Emergency Evacuation Plan.
- Take only essential personal items and medications.
- Proceed to your assigned location or follow directions from emergency personnel.
After the storm, avoid flooded areas, downed power lines, and damaged buildings. Report emergencies to 911, then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police if the incident is on campus.
Tornado
If a Tornado Warning is issued or a tornado is observed, seek shelter immediately.
During a Tornado
- Move to the lowest level of the building, preferably a basement.
- If a basement is unavailable, go to a small interior room, hallway, stairwell, or restroom without windows.
- Stay away from windows, glass doors, and exterior walls.
- Bring everyone indoors and close doors behind you.
- Protect your head and neck with your arms or other available items.
- Faculty and supervisors should account for students, employees, and visitors once everyone is safely sheltered, if it can be done safely.
Remain sheltered until the warning has expired or an official all-clear has been issued.
After the storm, watch for hazards such as downed power lines, broken glass, and structural damage. Report emergencies to 911, then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police if the incident is on campus.
Earthquake
Although earthquakes are uncommon in Rhode Island, knowing how to respond can reduce the risk of injury.
During an Earthquake
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
- Stay indoors if you are inside, and move away from windows, glass, and objects that could fall.
- If you are outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and utility lines.
- Do not use elevators.
After the Shaking Stops
- Be prepared for aftershocks.
- Evacuate the building if directed by emergency responders or if the building appears unsafe.
- Stay away from damaged buildings, downed power lines, and broken utility or steam lines.
- Do not re-enter a building until it has been declared safe by emergency personnel.
A Shelter-in-Place order is issued when conditions outside a building present a danger, such as severe weather, hazardous materials, or another environmental hazard. The goal is to keep the campus community safely indoors until the threat has passed.
Shelter-in-Place instructions will be communicated through the Rhode Island College Emergency Notification System and other official College communication channels.
If a Shelter-in-Place Order Is Issued
- If you are outdoors, immediately enter the nearest safe building.
- If you are already indoors, remain inside.
- Close and lock doors and windows, if possible.
- If instructed, turn off fans, heating, or air conditioning systems that draw outside air into the building.
- Stay away from windows and exterior doors.
- Faculty should keep students in the classroom, and supervisors should account for employees and visitors, if it is safe to do so.
- Continue to monitor official Rhode Island College communications for updates and additional instructions.
Remain sheltered until an official all-clear is issued by the College or emergency responders.
Utility failures may include power outages, gas leaks, water or steam line breaks, or other disruptions to campus services.
If a Utility Failure Occurs
- Report the outage or utility emergency to Rhode Island College Campus Police at 401-456-8888.
- If there is an immediate danger to life or safety, call 911.
- Do not use open flames or light matches if you suspect a gas leak.
- If you become trapped in an elevator, remain calm, use the emergency call button or phone to request assistance, and wait for responders. Do not attempt to force the elevator doors open.
- Follow instructions from Campus Police or Facilities Management and evacuate if directed.
The possession or display of a weapon on campus may present an immediate threat to the safety of the Rhode Island College community. If you see or suspect a weapon on campus, take the situation seriously.
If You Observe a Weapon
- Call 911 immediately if there is an immediate threat to life or safety.
- If you cannot safely speak: Text 911 (available throughout Rhode Island)
- Then notify Rhode Island College Campus Police at 401-456-8888, or use a Blue Light Emergency Phone.
- If it is safe to do so, provide:
- The location of the individual.
- A description of the individual and the weapon.
- Whether any threats have been made.
- The direction of travel, if the individual leaves the area.
If You Suspect Someone Has a Weapon
- Remain calm and avoid drawing attention to yourself.
- If possible, discreetly notify Campus Police.
- If you cannot safely speak: Text 911 (available throughout Rhode Island)
- Do not confront or attempt to disarm the individual.
- Follow the instructions of law enforcement and be prepared to Run, Hide, Fight if the situation escalates into an active threat.
For Faculty and Staff
If you suspect a weapon is present in a classroom or workspace:
- Keep others calm.
- Discreetly notify Campus Police as soon as it is safe to do so.
- If you cannot safely speak: Text 911 (available throughout Rhode Island)
- Do not attempt to confiscate the weapon or confront the individual.
