Preparedness | Responses | Recovery
Emergency Preparedness
Shelter in Place
During certain emergency situations—such as armed intruder, chemical releases, radioactive material releases, and some weather emergencies—you may be advised to "shelter in place" rather than evacuate the building. These messages may be delivered through the SUN System (Skidmore Urgent Notification System).
- Go inside or stay inside the building.
- Do not use elevators.
- Shut and lock all windows and doors.
- Turn off the heat, air conditioning, or ventilation system, if you have local controls for these systems.
- Close fireplace dampers.
- Quickly locate supplies you may need, e.g., food, water, radio, etc.
- If possible, go to a room or corridor where there are no windows. In the event of a chemical release, go to an above-ground level of the building, since some chemicals are heavier than air and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed.
- If possible, monitor main College web page (www.skidmore.edu), radio, or television for further information and instructions.
- Do not call Campus Safety unless you are reporting a life-threatening situation.
- When the "all clear" is announced:
- Open windows and doors.
- Turn on heating, air conditioning, or ventilation system.
- Go outside and wait until the building has been vented.