Emergency Information Guide/Plans

VALPO SAFE APP

The “VALPO SAFE” App was developed by VUPD under its mandate to develop policies, programs, services, and informational resources to promote and address student and employee safety.

This free app has several activation buttons to obtain assistance. These buttons include: VUPD 911 or Off Campus 911, Panic/Blue Phone, a Friend Walk, a VUPD Walk, Emergency Guide/Plans, Safety Toolbox (Chat with VUPD, Share a Location, etc.), Campus Maps, Report a Tip, and Support Resources (Title IX, Student Life, Health and Counseling Centers). Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to install the VALPO SAFE App.

The university has an Emergency Notification System (RAVE) that is integrated into various means of communication within the university. The official form of communication for the university is email. As such, the Emergency Notification System is integrated into the university email system. In addition to emails, the EMS sends messages to the VALPO SAFE App, text messages, Valpo Twitter Alert, VUPD Twitter and Facebook pages.

You may also receive emergency alerts from the following Valpo Alert and VUPD social media.

Valpo Alert Twitter
Follow @valpoalert

VUPD Twitter
Follow @VU_Police

VUPD Facebook
Follow Valparaiso University Police Department

To enroll in text messaging, visit https://www.getrave.com/login/valpo and select your Valpo Google email. From there you will be asked to approve the terms of use. Once you have done so, you will be able to view your account and add your mobile number.

Additionally, you are able to add another contact number to your profile. Should you have a loved one that would like to receive campus emergency notifications, you can add them to the system. They can then receive notifications via text message, as well.

The University has two emergency sirens centrally located on campus. These sirens will sound whenever there is a confirmed report of a life-threatening situation; whether it be weather related, a chemical spill, or any other situation that threatens lives or property. These sirens are connected to the county-wide emergency response early warning system which is activated by the Porter County Central 911 Center. VUPD 911/Dispatch can also activate them, as needed.

In the case of an emergency, the siren will sound continuously for three (3) minutes, followed by one (1) minute of silence, and repeated, as needed. When this happens:

• Seek Shelter Immediately
• Basements and reinforced concrete buildings are your best protection.
• Go to the lowest part of the building, stay away from outside walls and windows. (Small rooms provide good protection.)
• For buildings without basements, go to the ground floor. Take cover under heavy furniture in the central part of the building, or in a small room, interior hallway or bathroom away from windows.

The siren does not sound an all clear notification. The Porter County Emergency sirens are tested the first Tuesday of each month. A warning siren will sound at 11:00 a.m. THIS IS ONLY A TEST! Testing will be thirty (30) seconds of constant signal, followed by one (1) minute of silence, and 30 seconds of wailing (wavering) signal.

“Alarm/Siren Inside, Go Outside”………………………………………. “Siren/Alarm Outside, Go Inside”

For both emergencies and non-emergencies, pre-program the VUPD’s phone number, 219.464.5430, into your phones, and install the “VALPO SAFE” app. (For the VALPO SAFE app information, go to VALPO SAFE above).

Have a plan:

• Stay Calm.
• Prepare and be ready to take action during emergencies.
• Become familiar with your surroundings.
• Know and plan evacuation routes, and where to take shelter when needed.
• Avoid putting yourself at greater risk, but give aid to those in need, when possible.
• Follow instructions given by officials

VUPD 911/Dispatch      219.464.5430

VUPD Non-Emergency 219.464.5430

VALPO SAFE App         911 (VUPD)

911 (Central Dispatch)

Panic Button (VUPD Blue Phone)

When calling VUPD, stay calm and carefully explain the problem and location to the VUPD 911/Dispatcher. If possible,stay on the phone line.

• Stay calm
• Call VUPD at 219.464.5430, utilize “VALPO SAFE 911” or call 911.
• Inform the 911/Dispatcher of the problem, and give the location of the problem.
• Stay on the phone line, if possible, until the 911/Dispatcher advises otherwise.

When an Active Shooter is in your vicinity, you must be prepared both mentally and physically to deal with the situation. You have three options:

RUN

•  Have an escape route and plan in mind.
•  Leave your belongings behind.
•  Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
•  Help others escape, if possible.
•  Do not attempt to move the wounded.
•  Prevent others from entering an area where the active shooter may be.
•  Keep your hands visible.
•  Call VUPD at 219.464.5430, utilize “VALPO SAFE 911” or call 911.

HIDE

•  Hide in an area out of the shooter’s view.
•  Lock the door, or block entry, to your hiding place.
•  Silence your cell phone (including vibrate mode) and remain quiet.

FIGHT

• Fight as a last resort and only when your life is in imminent danger.
• Attempt to incapacitate the shooter.
• Act with as much physical aggression as possible.
• Utilize improvised weapons or throw items at the active shooter.
• Commit to your actions; your life depends on it!

• Everyone is in charge of their own safety, and can help keep campus safe.
• Stay calm.
• Report any suspicious activities, or person(s) to VUPD at 219.464.5430, utilize “VALPO SAFE 911” or call 911. Do not second-guess yourself. Trust your instincts, and make the call to VUPD.
• Go to a safe area.
• When calling VUPD, give the following information:
  • Nature of the incident.
  • Location of the incident.
  • Description of person(s) involved.
  • Description of property involved.

• Most campus demonstrations are peaceful, and everyone should attempt to carry on business as normally as possible.
• Avoid provoking or obstructing the demonstrators.
• Should a disturbance occur, threatening or not, call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize “VALPO SAFE 911”.
• Seek shelter away from the disturbance.
• If you find yourself in a crowd of demonstrators, move to an edge of the crowd, work your way out of the crowd and walk slowly away. Seek shelter.

• If you observe a suspicious object or potential bomb on campus:
  • Remain calm.
  • Do not touch, tamper with, or move the package, bag, or item.
  • Notify VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize “VALPO SAFE 911” immediately:
  • Explain why it appears suspicious.
  • Follow instructions given by law enforcement regarding shelter-in-place or evacuation.
  • If no guidance is provided, and you feel you are in immediate danger, calmly evacuate the area.
  • Distance and protective cover are the best ways to reduce injury from a bomb.
  • Be aware. There could be other threats or suspicious items.
  • Assist people with disabilities, and/or special accommodations, with exiting the area. Inform VUPD of the locations of those with disabilities that are in need of assistance.
  • Once away or outside, move to a clear area away from the affected area. Keep streets and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel.
  • Do not return to the affected area, unless directed to do so by the VUPD.

  If you receive a bomb threat:

  • Remain calm.
  • Notify VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize “VALPO SAFE 911” immediately.
  • For threats made via phone:
    • Keep the caller on the line as long as possible.
    • Be polite and show interest to keep them talking.
    • Do not hang up, even if the caller does.
    • If possible, signal or pass a note to other staff to listen and help notify VUPD.
    • Write down as much information as possible—caller ID number, exact wording of threat, type of voice or behavior, etc.—that will aid investigators.
    • Record the call, if possible.

Most sexual assaults among college students involve people they know, alcohol or drugs. Anyone can be assaulted. If someone is sober, or under the influence, and sexually assaulted, they are not responsible for the assault. The perpetrator is the cause of the assault.

If you are sexually assaulted, call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize “VALPO SAFE 911”. They are there to help you. They can make you safe, facilitate medical services, and help you get Title IX and advocate assistance.

Safety tips can lessen the likelihood of being sexually assaulted.

Safety Tips

• Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Use caution when wearing headphones, as it prevents awareness.
• When walking, take a friend or a group of friends.
• When going to a party, go as a group, and return from the party as a group; everyone returns together.
• Keep doors and windows locked, even when you leave your residence for a short time. This includes residence halls.
• Only consume drinks that you have opened, and protect your drinks.
• Know your limits.
• Trust your instincts. If you feel you should get out of a situation, do so. It is okay to lie to become safe.
• Develop a safety plan. It is even better if you and your friends develop safety plans together.
• Don’t be afraid to call VUPD at 219.464.5430 to help you get out of an unsafe situation.

CONDUCT WHILE BEING HELD HOSTAGE

• Stay calm.
• Be alert to situations and focus on survival.
• Comply with the instructions of your abductor the best you can.
• Your captor may seem reasonable, but they cannot be trusted to behave normally, and their actions may be unpredictable.
• Do not discuss what actions your family, friends, employer or campus may take.
• Make a mental note of the entire situation.
• Avoid making provocative remarks to your abductors. They may be unstable and violent individuals.
• Try to establish some kind of rapport with your captors.

• All are to evacuate a building when a fire alarm sounds and/or upon notification.
• Be aware of all marked exits and evacuation routes.
• Assist people with disabilities, and/or special accommodations, in exiting the building If possible.
• Do not use the elevator in case of a fire.  Use the stairs.
• Once outside, move to a clear area away from the affected building.  Keep streets and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel.
• Do not return to an evacuated building, unless directed to do so by VUPD or the Valpo Fire Department.
• Report anything unusual/of importance to Emergency Personnel.  Such as, someone trapped, or blocked exits.

• If there is a fire in the building or area, activate the fire alarm, if possible, and evacuate Immediately. If possible, close as many doors as you can as you evacuate.

• Immediately contact VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize “VALPO SAFE 911”.

• Give the location of the fire

• Type of fire (house, building, car, brush, etc.)

• If the burning building or vehicle is occupied.

• Your identity.

• Know the location of fire extinguishers in your area.

• On a minor (small) fire that appears controllable, immediately contact the VUPD.  Promptly direct the charge of the fire extinguisher toward the base of the flame.

• Pull

• Aim

• Squeeze

• Sweep

• Assist people with disabilities, and/or special accommodations, in exiting the building, if possible.

• Do not use the elevator in case of a fire.

• Once outside, move to a clear area away from the affected building.  Keep streets and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel.

• Do not return to an evacuated building or area, unless directed to do so by the VUPD or the Valpo Fire Department.

• Report anything unusual/of importance to Emergency Personnel.  Such as, someone trapped, or blocked exits.

NOTE: If you become trapped in a building during a fire, and a window is available, place an article of clothing (shirt, coat, etc.) outside the window as a marker for emergency personnel.  If there is no window, stay near the floor, where the air will be more breathable.  Shout at regular intervals and strike a hard surface with your hand or object, to alert emergency personnel of your location. Call 911, if possible.  If you are in a room, close the door to prevent smoke entering, and follow the above instructions.

Every alarm should be treated as a real emergency!

Department heads, managers and supervisors are responsible for having a plan to account for campus community members. Notify VUPD of those missing and/or anyone who may be trapped in the building.

State and local regulations require all occupants to leave the building if a fire alarm occurs.

Before a fire occurs, there are some simple steps you can follow that will aid your survival. These include:

• Finding the nearest exit, and also an alternate exit, should the primary one be blocked.

• Ensuring that the path out is clear of any obstructions, and that all doors leading out of the building can be opened.

• Finding the nearest fire extinguisher, and learning how to use it, if necessary.

• Before opening any door, feel the handle with the back of your hand. If it is hot, do not open it! If it is not hot, stay low to the floor and open cautiously, bracing yourself against it to slam it shut if you feel a rush of heat.

• If the closest exit is blocked, go to an alternative exit. If all doors are blocked, exit through a ground floor window, but be careful of broken glass.

In the event of an explosion or aircraft crash, take the following actions:

• Immediately take cover under tables, desks and other such objects that will give protection against falling glass or debris.

• Notify VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize “VALPO SAFE 911”.

• When appropriate, or instructed to, evacuate the affected areas.

• Assist people with disabilities, and/or special , with exiting the area if possible. Inform VUPD of the locations of those with disabilities that are in need of assistance.

• Once away from the affected area, move to a clear/safe area. Keep streets and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel.

• Do not return to the affected areas, unless directed to do so by VUPD or the Valpo Fire Department.

• Report anything unusual/of importance to Emergency Personnel, such as, an out of place container/object, or a bystander who appears out of place/suspicious.

• Any spillage of a chemical, gas, or radioactive material is to be reported immediately to VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize “VALPO SAFE 911”.
• Move away from the affected area.
• Evacuate area if the release is hazardous or large.
• Move to a safe and clear safe area away from the affected building(s), outside is best in most cases. Keep doorways, streets and walkways clear for emergency responders.
• If you are contaminated by the spill avoid contact with others as much as possible.  Required first aid and clean up by specialized authorities should be started at once.
• Assist people with disabilities in exiting the area. Inform VUPD of those with disabilities needing assistance. .
• DO NOT RETURN TO AN EVACUATED AREA unless directed to do so by VUPD or the Valpo Fire Department.

• If a serious injury or illness occurs on campus, immediately call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.  Get an AED if the location is known, or ask someone to get one for you.

• Give your name, describe the nature and severity of the medical problem, and give the campus location of the victim.

• In case of injury or illness:

• Keep the victim still and comfortable. Do not move the victim.

• Ask the victim, “Are you okay?” and “What is wrong?”

• If trained, check their breathing and pulse and perform CPR, if necessary.

• Control serious bleeding by applying direct pressure on the wound.

• Continue to assist the victim until help arrives.

• Use universal precautions for bloodborne pathogens.

First Aid and CPR are life-saving skills.  All members of the campus community are encouraged to take First-Aid and CPR classes

• Immediately call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.  Get an AED and Narcan if the location is known, or ask someone to get them for you.

• Determine what substance is involved and how it was taken.  Do Not Touch any white, powdery substance, on or near the victim, without wearing gloves.  Do Not inhale the powder.  Wear a mask if possible.

• Stay with the victim and assist as necessary.

• Immediately call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.  Get an AED if the location is known, or ask someone to get one for you.

• Have the victim lie or sit down in a position of comfort; not too hot or cold.

• Ask for or look for an emergency medical I.D. for the victim.

• Treat other injuries, as necessary

• Immediately call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.  Get an AED if the location is known, or ask someone to get one for you.

• If burns are caused by dry chemicals, brush off and remove clothing.

• Flood the chemical burn with tepid water.

• Cover the burn with a dry, sterile bandage.

• Keep the victim quiet and comfortable.

• Immediately call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.  Get an AED if the location is known, or ask someone to get one for you.

• Use a clean cloth or gloved hand.

• Apply direct pressure on the wound.

• Apply pressure to a blood vessel, if necessary.

• Elevate the body part that is bleeding.

• Add more cloth if blood soaks through.

• Keep pressure on the wound until help arrives.

• If the patient loses consciousness, open the patient’s airway and elevate their legs.

Standing Patient

• Immediately call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.  Get an AED if the location is known, or ask someone to get one for you.

• If the patient is coughing and breathing, stay with the patient.

• If the patient is unable to speak, perform abdominal thrusts.

• Begin by wrapping your arms around the person, making a fist with one hand and clasping it with the other. Place your fists between the person’s rib cage and belly button and thrust your hands into their abdomen until the object is freed.

Lying Down Patient / Unconscious

• Immediately call VUPD at 219. 464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.  Get an AED if the location is known, or ask someone to get one for you.

• Start CPR beginning with Chest Compressions First

• Every 2 minutes, check airway/mouth; if foreign object is seen, remove with finger sweep.

• Immediately call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.  Get an AED if the location is known, or ask someone to get one for you.

• Place the victim lying on their back.

• Give CPR, as necessary.

• Keep the victim comfortable. Not too hot or cold.

• Ask or look for an emergency medical I.D. for the victim.

• Immediately call VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.  Get an AED if the location is known, or ask someone to get one for you.

• Keep the victim still.

• Keep the injured area immobile.

• Use an ice pack, if available, to reduce any swelling.

• Stay calm.
• If indoors, seek shelter in the lowest level of the building. Stay away from windows!
• If outdoors, take cover in the nearest ditch or depression and away from power lines, buildings, trees and metal objects.  Do NOT stay in a car or attempt to outrun a tornado.
• If the area is hit by a tornado, be aware of dangerous structural conditions around you, and move to a clear area away from the affected building and/or area.
• Damaged facilities should be reported to VUPD at 219.464.5430 or utilize the “VALPO SAFE” App 911.
• Assist people with disabilities, and/or special accommodations, in exiting the building and/or area.
• Do NOT return to an evacuated building, unless directed to do so by the VUPD.

NOTE:
A Severe Storm or Tornado Watch indicates that weather conditions are favorable for, and the potential exists, for the development of a severe storm or tornado.

A Severe Storm or Tornado Warning indicates that severe weather, and/or tornado, is imminent in your area, or is already occurring.

There are times in which winter weather may result in delayed or suspended university operations and classes. As such, it is important to keep the following items into consideration during these periods.

Stay Informed

• Any information about delayed or suspended University operations and classes will be sent to your email. Other means include: University social media, distributed through the Valparaiso University Alert System (VUPD Alert), and posted on the Valpo Campus Alerts page.

Please reference the National Weather Service website for up-to-the-minute information about weather advisories, watches and warnings.

Travel to and Around Campus During Weather-related Events

• Residence halls, and the Harre Union, will remain open, with dining services continuing their operations under any circumstances; however, some dining services may be limited. Other campus buildings will not be accessible due to safety concerns.  Whether you are walking from a residence hall, or driving to campus, allow yourself extra time in cold, icy and snowy conditions.
• For off-campus students, use your best judgment and caution when traveling to and around campus. Allow yourself extra time in cold, icy and snowy conditions. Those who believe driving to campus is too dangerous due to weather and road conditions, should inform their professors or supervisors and postpone travel until conditions improve.

Function over Fashion

• Wear warm, waterproof boots with thick, rubber soles to keep your feet warm and dry and to help you avoid slipping on icy sidewalks or streets. Remember to take it slow, watch where you’re going and walk carefully.
• Be sure to bring extra layers, and shed a layer or two if you get too hot. Perspiration can contribute to heat loss, which becomes dangerous in extreme cold temperatures.

Be Safe

• Valparaiso University places the safety and well-being of all members of its community first. Please stay warm and safe, and allow yourself additional time to make your way to and from campus.

Winter Weather Terminology 

Freezing Rain / Sleet – creates a coating of ice on roads and walkways.

Winter Weather Advisory – means cold, ice and snow are expected.

Winter Storm Watch – means severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible.

Winter Storm Warning – means severe winter conditions have begun or will begin very soon.

Blizzard Warning – means heavy snow and strong winds will produce blinding snow, near-zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill.