This guide has been prepared for you as a quick reference during emergency conditions on campus. You will be most effective in an emergency when you are prepared. Please take a few moments to review this material.

This document is not meant to cover every emergency situation that may arise. If you are unsure of what to do in a particular emergency, please ask your supervisor or contact Campus Safety and Security, ext. 2111. Be sure to check with your department head, supervisor, or residence hall director for emergency guidelines and policies that are specific to your building.

In an emergency, faculty, staff, residence life personnel, and supervisors have the responsibility to give instructions to students and employees, close and lock doors, and provide other required safety and first-aid measures unless otherwise directed by Campus Safety and Security or other properly identified emergency personnel.

Be familiar with your work environment including areas of safety and at least two exit points.

Emergency Responders

In addition to Campus Safety and Security, Luther has other groups that support emergency preparedness and response. These groups include our Emergency Response Team, Emergency Communication Team, and Emergency Support Team.

The Emergency Response Team (ERT): The ERT is comprised of campus management staff having a direct operational role during emergency operations.

Luther College employs the Incident Command System (ICS) organization, position responsibilities, and functions during an emergency. ICS is a standardized on-scene, all-hazards incident management approach designed specifically to allow responders to adopt an integrated organizational structure equal to the complexity and demands of any single incident or multiple incidents without being hindered by jurisdictional boundaries. ICS is used by FEMA, law enforcement, and emergency response agencies as the basis for emergency management. Use of ICS at Luther College facilitates the college’s ability to communicate and coordinate response actions with other jurisdictional and external emergency response agencies such as the Decorah Police Department, Decorah Fire Department, and Winneshiek County Emergency Management.

The ERT meets to prepare for emergency situations and when an emergency could arise or is occurring. Working in concert with law enforcement, fire officials, and emergency medical responders, they will evaluate the circumstances and make appropriate decisions on the steps that will be taken.

The Emergency Communication Team (ECT): The ECT supports the Emergency Response Team and provides communication to the campus community regarding emergency situations and updates as necessary.

The Emergency Support Team (EST): The EST supports the Emergency Response Team in emergency response and provides expertise as needed in specific situations.

Persons with Mobility Issues

Individuals with mobility issues should follow the same emergency procedures as outlined in this document insofar as they are able. If requested, accompany and assist persons with disabilities who need assistance. If you have questions or need further information, call Campus Safety and Security, ext. 2111.

What to do in Emergency Situations