Emergency Evacuation of a Building
We highly encourage staff and students with disabilities to have a thoughtful plan for evacuation each semester of attendance considering the location of your classrooms.
For support with an individual assessment and creating an evacuation plan, please schedule a meeting with staff in Accessibility Resources.
In an emergency situation...
It is critical to your health and safety that you are familiar with your needs during an emergency evacuation. All employees and students must evacuate a building when the fire alarm system is activated or when directed by emergency personnel—security, fire department, law enforcement, etc. If time and safety allow for it, remember to take with you any personal belongings (e.g., vehicle keys, house keys, medications). This is particularly important should the evacuation prove to be long-term.
Note: the following is general guidance, and individuals should follow the instructions given by emergency personnel, if different from below.
For those requiring evacuation assistance...
Individuals with disabilities who need assistance shall go to the closest and safest stairwell. They should tell an employee, coworker, or student who is exiting the building to notify emergency personnel of which stairwell they are located. The individual can also call University Security (507-389-2111) or 911 and communicate their name, location, and need for evacuation assistance. Emergency personnel will respond and assist that individual in evacuating the building. Use of elevators is prohibited except by, or under the direct supervision of, emergency services personnel.
Individuals with visual impairments should ask for assistance from a fellow student or staff member to exit the building.
When a visual alarm signal is not available, individuals with hearing loss should request an alternative warning, such as a written note or for the light switch to be flicked on and off, if their need is not already accommodated for (i.e., d/Deaf or Hard of Hearing individuals who have flashing alarms installed as a part of an accommodation plan).
Once outside...
Proceed to a clear area from the affected building. Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrant areas, and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel. Wait there for further instructions. Security personnel will respond to the emergency and, if it is determined that the evacuation is of a short-term nature, you may be directed to return to the building.
If it is determined by emergency personnel that the evacuation will be long-term, you will be instructed to report to the Emergency Assembly Area (EAA). The EAA on this campus is the Bresnan Arena in the Taylor Center -- also known as the stadium where events like Graduation Commencement and Maverick Basketball games take place. Should the Taylor Center be the building being evacuated, the Centennial Student Union Ballroom is the alternate EAA location.
In addition, students are encouraged to contact their residential hall complex directors to discuss evacuation procedures specific to their residence halls.
For your safety and well-being, evacuation of buildings in emergency situations is not discretionary; evacuation of all non-emergency personnel is mandatory.
For further consideration of your personal safety, this Emergency Evacuation Planning Guide (PDF) is a good resource. Questions and concerns regarding emergency evacuation for individuals with disabilities can be directed to Accessibility Resources via email at ar@mnsu.edu or phone at 507-389-2825.
