When it is safer to remain in a building rather than exiting it, college administration and/or the Office of Public Safety will initiate shelter-in-place procedures.
Shelter-in-place means finding a safe location indoors and staying there until you are given an “all clear” or told to evacuate. You may be asked to shelter in place because of an active shooter, storm, or chemical, radiological or other hazards.
In finding a safe location: Does the door lock? Does it open out or in? Is there furniture nearby that you can use to barricade the door? Can you close or block the windows?
- Stay calm.
- DO NOT LEAVE THE BUILDING.
- Listen for announcements from the Office of Public Safety or law enforcement officials.
- Proceed to a location that can be secured, and lock or secure the door. If necessary, move something in front of the door to ensure it cannot be forced open.
- Turn off all lights, silence all phones, and wait for further instructions. Instruction will come via e mail or text, CUNY Alert or public address system so keep your silenced phone nearby.
- Do not open the door until instructed by responding authorities.
- Remember: contact the Office of Public Safety: 212-772-4444 or 911 if you feel that your safety is in jeopardy.
- Wait in the safest location possible until you are given the “all clear” or told to evacuate.
- During an active shooter situation, the college will “lock-down” all exterior doors.