Providing a safe teaching and learning environment is a primary concern of Siena Heights University. Please take time to read through these guidelines and our Safety Awareness Handbook/Crime Statistics Right to Know Act and familiarize yourself with the programs and activities we offer. Educate yourself about what you can do personally to make your campus a safer place.
important information
Although Universities are generally a very safe environment, they are not without crime. The majority of crimes that occur involve the theft of personal property. Few of these thefts involve forced entry, and most offenses fall into the category of “crimes of opportunity.” Effective security and protection of people and property are the primary responsibilities of all members of the campus community. We encourage our community to be security conscious at all times.
Here are some useful safety tips that may keep you from falling victim to crime:
General Safety Tips:
- Lock your door when you leave, regardless of the length of time you plan to be gone.
- Keep small items of value, such as wallets, money and jewelry, out of sight; preferably in a small safe.
- Take advantage of the free engraving and registration of electronic devices with the Department of Public Safety.
- Do not leave notes on your door announcing that no one is in.
- Never lend out your key.
- Report all thefts immediately. For the Adrian Campus contact Public Safety 517-264-7800.
- Report all doors, locks and windows that are in need of repair.
- Be suspicious of unknown persons loitering or checking doors. Note their descriptions and call Public Safety immediately.
Residence Hall Safety Tips:
- Do not prop open locked residence hall doors.
- Lock your door when sleeping.
- Lock your room when leaving a roommate asleep inside.
- Lock your door when you leave, regardless of the length of time you plan to be gone.
- Keep small items of value, such as wallets, money and jewelry, out of sight; preferably in a small safe.
- Take advantage of the free engraving and registration of electronic devices with the Department of Public Safety.
- Mark all clothing with a laundry pen or needle and thread, in a place other than the label.
- Do not leave notes on your door announcing that no one is in.
- Do not take in overnight guests whom you do not know.
- Do not allow door-to-door salespeople to enter your room. University policy prohibits soliciting and the alleged salesperson may be “casing” your room for later theft.
- Never lend out your room key.
- Report all thefts immediately to Public Safety, 517-264-7800.
- Report to the residence hall staff all doors, locks and windows that are in need of repair.
- Be suspicious of unknown persons loitering or checking doors in your hall. Note their descriptions and call Public Safety immediately.
- Do not invite people you “meet” on the internet to your room, or to stay overnight in your room.
- Properly check in all guests with Public Safety.
Employees, students, visitors may be asked to shelter in place when it is unsafe outside due to a Hazardous Materials
Incident, or an ongoing incident in another location.
- Department of Public Safety and/or Emergency Response personnel will advise when to shelter in place.
- All students, visitors, an employees must stay in current location or area designated by the Department of
Public Safety or Emergency Response personnel.
Crisis Intervention
If a crisis (i.e., when a student becomes very agitated, aggressive, or threatens the health and safety of him or herself or others) occurs, the situation requires immediate and specific attention. The following guidelines for managing a crisis are recommended for all college staff and instructors:
Remain Calm
Take a deep breath and relax. A calm demeanor will have a soothing impact on the student. A calm persona will help keep the situation in control and reassure the student.
Unusual, Disturbing or Suspicious Behavior
- Listen to the student. Allow the student to talk about what has happened and vent his or her feelings. Respond to the student’s feelings with empathy and respect. Avoid confrontational behavior.
- Focus the student. Help the student to focus on the here and now.
- Ask for direction. Is there something that the student wants done or that he or she wants to do by him or herself? What would the student like you to do?
- Refer the student to help. Before leaving the student, make sure that he or she is calm and in control. If there are any questions about the student being in control, do not leave him or her. Call Public Safety (517-264-7800) for assistance, or walk the student to Counseling Center, and make sure he or he is seen by somebody who is skilled in handling such situations.
These pointers are for situations in which you must respond immediately or for those in which you choose to respond on your own. Please be assured that whenever possible you are welcomed and encouraged to consult with either the Department of Public Safety, (517) 264-7800, and/or Counseling Center, (517) 264-7193. Please call either office whenever you have any concerns or questions about a student’s behavior or utilize the Student Care Team.
The Student Who Is Verbally Aggressive
A student may become verbally aggressive when he or she feels frustrated or out of control. He or she will lash out at others as a way to express these feelings. Do allow the student to vent and describe what is upsetting him or her but indicate that verbally abusive behavior is not acceptable. If the student gets too close to you, sit down and ask him or her to move back. Be aware of the closest exit. If necessary, walk the student to a quieter, but public place; if the student agrees, walk him or her to the counselor’s office or to University Public Safety. Do not enlist the aid of other students to quiet the student down. Do not threaten, taunt, or push the student. Do not press for an explanation of the student’s behavior. Do not get physically cornered.
The Student Who Is Violent or Physically Destructive
A student may become violent when he or she feels totally frustrated and unable to do anything about it. Being frustrated over a long period of time may erode the student’s control over his or her behavior. This behavior may present the most immediate danger to staff and to other students. Do get help immediately from the Department of Public Safety, (517)-264-7800. Do present a calm appearance and let the student talk. Respond to him or her calmly and quietly. Explain that only behaviors that are safe for others are acceptable. Call for
assistance, but first tell the student of your intention. Do not threaten, taunt, or push the student. Do not press for an explanation of the student’s behavior. Do not confront or threaten the student. Do not get physically cornered.
The Student Who Is in Poor Contact with Reality
A student in poor contact with reality may be having hallucinations or delusions or have difficulty separating fact from fantasy. He or she may behave in strange or unusual ways and is most likely scared, frightened, and overwhelmed; he or she probably is not dangerous. Do respond to the student with care and kindness, and maintain eye contact. Acknowledge the student’s fears without either supporting or contradicting his or her misconceptions. Try to change the focus from the student’s delusion to the immediate reality. Contact the
Counseling Center or the Department of Public Safety. Do not argue or try to convince the student that he or she is irrational. Do not play along with the student’s delusions. Do not demand, command, or order the student. Do not expect customary responses.
The Student Who Is Depressed
A student who is depressed may go unnoticed. His or her behavior may indicate low energy, lack of interest in what is going on around him or her, feelings of sadness and hopelessness and difficulties with eating and sleeping. His or her personal hygiene may be poor. Do express concern and privately inquire if he or she is receiving any help. If not, make a referral using the Student Assistance Program or escort the student to the Counseling Center, (517) 264-7193). Do not discount the significance and intensity of the student’s feelings.
Do not say things such as, “Crying won’t help.” Do not discount a suicide threat. If the student says he or she is contemplating suicide, notify the Department of Public Safety, (517) 264-7800. Do not leave the student unattended.
The Student Who Is Anxious
A student who is anxious appears overly concerned with trivial matters. He or she may require very specific guidelines and seek more structure in assignments. Unfamiliar or new situations often raise his or her anxiety. Apprehension over assignments and concerns about perfection may be a result of unreasonably high self-expectations. Do be clear and explicit about expectations. Let the student express his or her feeling and thoughts. Recommend that he or she seek counseling. Remain patient with the student’s demands for clarification and structure. Do not discount the student’s anxiety by saying, “It’s not really that bad, is it?” Do not blame yourself for the student’s anxiety.
The Student Who Is Dependent
A student who is dependent may attach him or herself to staff and demand more and more time. He or she is often lonely and has poor interpersonal skills. The student may see the amount of attention given to him-or herself as a reflection of his or her self-worth. Do set limits on the time spent with the student and limits on which subjects will be discussed. Do let the student make his or her own decisions. Refer the student for counseling or the Student Assistance Program. Do not let the student use staff as his or her only source of support. Do not assume the role of parental figure, give advice, or give more time and energy than can be realistically spent or is appropriate.
The Student Who Is Suspicious
A student who is suspicious often is tense and distrustful. He or she may interpret minor oversights as personal rejection and overreact to insignificant occurrences. He or she is overly concerned with fairness and being treated equally. The student may place staff in seemingly no-win situations because he or she views attention as the staff wanting something from him or her and inattention as the staff having it in for him or her. Do express compassion without overstating friendship. Suspicious students often have trouble relating to others. Do be
firm, steady, punctual, and consistent. Be specific and clear regarding the standards of behavior expected from the student. Do make a referral to Counseling Center (517-264-7193) or Student Assistance Program. Do not become the student’s friend. Do not be overly warm and nurturing. Do not be cute or humorous; this can be misinterpreted as slights or rejections. Do not challenge or agree with any misconception.
The Student Who Is Seductive
A student who is seductive may behave flirtatiously, ask many personal questions, make demands on staff time, and request special treatment. The student may misinterpret attention as meaning staff has special feelings for him or her. Do set limits on the amount of time spent with the student and which subjects will be discussed. See the student only in a classroom or an office. Keep the door open during meetings. Be careful about giving double messages or saying things that might be misinterpreted as having a personal interest in the student beyond the normal student/teacher relationship. Do not encourage the student by responding positively to inappropriate behavior. Do not give the student special treatment.
The Student Who Talks About Suicide
The student who talks about suicide may mention in an offhand way that he or she wants to kill him or herself or that he or she thinks about being dead or in a better place. The student may feel depressed and hopeless. He or she may threaten to do something that will end his or her life. Do take these threats or comments seriously. If the student mentions specifics about how or when he or she will kill him or herself or if he or she has made a previous attempt, consider the risk very serious and get help. Express your concern for the student and strongly encourage him or her to see a counselor immediately. Escort the student to Counseling Center or the Department of Public Safety who will facilitate an appropriate referral. Do not make light of suicide threats. Do not discount the significance of the student’s feelings of depression and hopelessness.
The following indicators may suggest a greater likelihood of self-destructive potential. Having a familiarity with these may help you to identify individuals who pose a greater risk for committing suicide:
Has previously attempted suicide.
Has a history of self-destructive behavior.
Is talking or writing about suicide.
Has a specific plan.
Has access to a gun or other lethal means.
Is suffering from depression or other mental illness.
Evidences a sudden change in personality / behavior.
Has experienced a prior tragedy (e.g. Suicide of family member).
Is involved with alcohol and / or other substance.
Describes his situation as “hopeless”.
Has sleep and / or eating disturbances.
Is talking about “not being around…”, saying goodbye.
Gives away possessions, etc.
Adapted from Unger, Karen. V. Handbook on Supported Education: Providing Services for Students with Psychiatric Disabilities. Baltimore, Maryland: Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company, 1998.
Adapted from Lerner, Mark & Shelton, and Raymond. Acute Traumatic Stress Management: Addressing Emergent Psychological Needs During Traumatic Events. New York, New York: The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, 2001.
GENERAL REVERSE EVACUATION INFORMATION:
Situations requiring reverse evacuation could include but are not limited to the following:
- Tornadoes
- Winter Storms
- Severe Weather
All Campus Reverse Evacuation:
Tornado
- In the event an actual tornado has been sighted in the area (tornado warning), the siren above
Weber center will activate along with the city sirens. These sirens are activated by the Lenawee
County Sheriff’s Department, will sound a steady blast for 3 minutes. Campus Public Safety will be alerted via the S.A.M.E. weather radio system. - All persons in campus buildings should go to the lowest level possible within the building. Enter an interior room or hallway with no windows. Stay away from windows. Tornado safe zones are posted near exits in every building on the Adrian Campus.
- Assist others in your immediate area to exit to the nearest tornado safe zone.
- Persons should remain in a place of shelter until released by Public Safety.
- After the all clear is sounded, assess damage and/or injuries. If there is significant life threatening damage, i.e. downed lines, fires, ruptured gas lines, etc. or injury, call 9-911 or on the Adrian Campus Public Safety at ext. 7800.
SEVERE WEATHER DEFINITIONS:
TORNADO WATCH: Tornadoes are possible in your area. Remain alert for approaching storms. Listen to your
local radio/television outlets; if on the Adrian campus contact Public Safety at “0” for a S.A.M.E. weather radio
update.
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH: Severe thunderstorms are possible in your area, watch the sky and
listen to your local radio/television outlets. If you are at the Adrian campus contact Public Safety at “0” for a S.A.M.E. weather radio update.
TORNADO WARNING: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. IF THE TORNADO IS SIGHTED, OR INDICATED BY RADAR, IN THE VICINITY OF THE ADRIAN CAMPUS, PUBLIC SAFETY WILL ISSUE A REVERSE EVACUATION NOTICE. THE SIREN ON THE MOTHERHOUSE WILL SOUND. IMMEDIATELY RE-LOCATE TO THE NEAREST SAFE ZONE, REMAIN THERE UNTIL RELEASED BY PUBLIC SAFETY.
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING: Issued when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm.
FOR MORE SEVERE WEATHER INFORMATION: www.noaa.gov.
Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that advance warning is not possible. Remain alert for signs of an approaching tornado such as a dark, often greenish sky, large hail, or a loud roar similar to a freight train.
The mission of Siena Heights University requires a learning and work environment that is positive and promotes respect for others and positive respect for others and personal dignity. Acts of sexual harassment and/or assault are not only contrary to our mission, but also illegal. Sexual assaults, including rape, are serious crimes of violence in which the assailant, by threat or physical force, involves or attempts to involve the victim in involuntary sexual conduct to include penetration and/or contact.
Neither the Michigan statutes nor Siena Heights University differentiate if the perpetrator of a sexual assault is known to the victim or is a complete stranger. Siena Heights University will not tolerate sexual assault in any form, including acquaintance or date rape. Internal discipline of sexual assault incidents could be handled with either an informal or a formal procedure. Complete details regarding these procedures can be found in the student handbook or on the web page.
Discipline may include, but is not limited to, any of the following: suspension and/or removal from the community, suspension with or without pay, suspension pending a resolution of criminal charges. Alleged victims and offenders of sexual assault are assured the following rights with the University judicial process:
The right to be present during the entire proceeding
The right to have a person from the University present throughout the process to provide support
The right to not have their sexual history discussed during the proceedings, except as it relates to the
specific incident
The right to be informed of the results of the judicial proceeding
The right to have their name and identifying information kept confidential, except as otherwise required by
law, court order, or University policies or needs
The right to a speedy hearing and decision
Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome and unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct. Siena Heights University is strongly committed to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment and to discipline those who do harass.
Compliance with this policy is a term and condition of employment with the University. Discipline may include, but is not limited to, any of the following: oral reprimand, written reprimand, suspension with or without pay and termination or expulsion.
Siena Heights University is committed to the investigation of all reported allegations of either sexual assault or harassment. All reported allegations will be investigated fully. Due to the sensitive nature of these incidents, confidentiality will be observed provided it does not interfere with the University’s ability to investigate and take corrective action. Community members are urged to report any offenses immediately to the appropriate personnel. If you are a victim of sexual assault you should get to a safe place, contact Public Safety and attempt to preserve any potential evidence.
If you feel you are a victim of sexual harassment you may report it to any supervisor, any administrator, the Director of Public Safety or the Human Resource Office. Use of internal procedures does not forego subsequent legal action. It is not necessary for the victim to file a police report in order to pursue sanctions through the University judicial system; however, it is strongly recommended. The Director of Public Safety can assist with filing a police report.
Siena Heights University routinely sponsors activities and speakers on these subjects. Literature is available e upon request from the following offices: Public Safety, Residence Life, Human Resources or the Dean of Students. The Siena community offers counseling, mental health and student services for victims of sexual offenses. The University will make every available effort to assist in changing academic and living situations after an alleged sexual offense, if requested by the victim.
What to do if you have been sexually assaulted:
Go to a safe place. — Seek help:
Contact friends, family or other supportive people. Having someone to listen to you and help you sort out your feelings may be helpful.
The University Counseling Center can also provide confidential support and important information free of charge (517) 264-7193.
Catherine Cobb Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault program at (800) 874-5936 (24-hour crisis line)
Retain evidence:
Do not bathe or brush our hair or teeth.
Do not eat or drink anything.
Write down everything you can remember about the assailant and the assault.
Even if you do not plan to prosecute at first, it is best to preserve the evidence in case you decide to prosecute later or to help someone else prosecute.
Go to a hospital:
Get medical attention immediately. You should be evaluated for injury and sexually transmitted diseases. You do not have to report the assault, however, the medical staff can collect physical evidence should you choose to press charges later.
The hospital may be able to test for date rape drugs.
Promedica Hickman Hospital has S.A.N.E. (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners) who are highly trained specialized nurses dedicated to the examination and preservation of sexual assault victims and evidence. They are also certified to testify in court if needed. (517) 265-0900.
Call Public Safety and/or local police:
It is important to call Public Safety to report the assault. You do not have to press charges, but the
information you give the police can be used to learn more about trends, locations and methods of assault. It
may also be used to help identify the same assailant if they assault someone else.
o SHU Department of Public Safety (517) 264-7800
o SHU Director of Public Safety (517) 264-7194
On college campuses, the most prevalent form of sexual assault is acquaintance rape. In acquaintance rape the
attacker can be a friend, relative, spouse, lover, neighbor, co-worker, employer, employee, etc. It is not unusual
for acquaintance rape to include physical force, with or without a weapon. Date rape is acquaintance rape that
occurs in a dating situation.
Both men and women should know what to do when someone is sexually assaulted. If you or someone you know
has been sexually assaulted remember: sexual assault is a crime and victims may be affected psychologically.
Reactions such as shock, denial, anger, distress and confusion are normal under these circumstances.
Reducing your risks of being sexually assaulted
Although it may be impossible to prevent sexual assault, there are certain things you can do to reduce your chances
of being a victim. Knowing what to expect and how to react are your most important tools for avoiding sexual
assault.
o Look assertive, maintain eye contact, be confident, and be aware of your surroundings.
o Trust your intuition. If a particular situation makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself from
that situation. Do not be afraid to follow your instincts.
o Keep keys accessible.
o Park, walk or bicycling should be done in well lit, well-populated areas. A clear viewing area without
physical obstructions is preferable.
o Use the “buddy” system.
o Don’t walk alone there is safety in numbers. Contact Public Safety for an escort.
o Protect all beverages in social settings.
Seminars in safety awareness and sexual assault are programs offered by the Department of Public Safety. We
recommend that you take advantage of these free seminars. For information contact the Director of Public Safety at
(517) 264-7194.
CAMPUS SEX CRIMES PREVENTION ACT
Section 170101 of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 (42 U.S.C. 124071)“Notice of
enrollment at or employment by institutions of Higher Education “requires all registered sex offenders who work,
are enrolled and/or live on a college campus to report such on the sexual assault registry. For further information in
the Adrian area contact the Adrian Police Department at (517) 265-7151. http://www.mipsor.state.mi.us/
Reporting
Report Utility Failures in Adrian campus buildings to the Department of Public Safety
Be prepared to provide the following information:
o Your name
o Phone number where you can be reached
o Building name
o Nature of incident
o Floor(s) or area affected
o Room number
Electrical Failures
For the Adrian Campus – Public Safety will assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action.
In buildings equipped with emergency generators, the emergency generator will provide limited electricity to crucial areas of the building, inclusive of the fire alarm system and emergency lighting.
Fire alarm systems also have 24 hours of battery back-up.
Some building’s emergency lighting source is provided by battery, and will have a limited amount of time the emergency lighting will remain on. In this instance, you should evacuate the building when emergency lighting comes on: this is especially important if there is limited or no natural lighting available along your exit path. Do not reenter the building until the power has been restored.
Turn off all electrical equipment, including computers. Do not turn any equipment back on until power has been restored or you are advised to do so by Campus Public Safety.
In the event of an extended, campus wide, or area wide power outage, instructions and information will be provided through the SHU Alerts and University website systems.
Elevators will not function during a power failure. Use the stairs to evacuate the building.
If you are trapped in an elevator, use the elevator’s emergency phone to notify Campus Public Safety. If there is no emergency phone in the elevator, trigger the elevator’s emergency alarm button.
Water Leaks/Flooding
In the event of water leaks, try to contain the leakage in a container to minimize damage or safety hazards. If it is a significant water leak, avoid the areas where water has accumulated, and wait for help. Water makes an excellent conductor of electricity: thus electric shock is a strong possibility.
If there are injuries contact the Department of Public Safety or 911 immediately!
For the Adrian Campus:
Report vehicle crashes immediately to the Department of Public Safety.
A Public Safety Officer will responded and assist you in completing a City of Adrian Private Property Crash
Report.
This form can also be found online from the City of Adrian Police Department website
http://www.ci.adrian.mi.us/Services/Police/Traffic-Crash-Reports.aspx
For SHU Global Centers:
Report vehicle accidents by contacting 911 and following the local agency’s procedure.
IN GENERAL CONTACT THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND/OR LAW ENFORCEMENT TO
INVESTIGATE IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING APPLY:
The Driver of either vehicle is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The collision involves reckless driving.
Personal injuries occurred.
The collision occurred on a public street.
The license plate number of a hit and run vehicle was obtained.
Classroom Emergency Preparedness and Response Information
To Report an Emergency or Suspicious Activity:
Call the Department of Public Safety at 517-264-7800 (Adrian Campus). If the line is unavailable or you are calling from another University location, dial 911.
Shelter in Place – General Guidance
Although it is unlikely that we will ever need to shelter in place, it is helpful to know what to do just in case. No matter where you are on campus, the basic steps of shelter in place will generally remain the same:
- If you are inside, stay where you are. If you are outdoors, proceed into the closest building or follow instructions from emergency personnel on scene.
- Shelter-in-place in an interior room, above ground level, and with the fewest windows. If sheltering in a room with windows, keep away from the windows. If there is a large group of people inside a particular building, several rooms maybe necessary.
- Shut and lock all windows (locking will form a tighter seal) and close exterior doors.
- Turn off air conditioners, heaters, and fans. Close vents to ventilation systems as you are able. (Facilities staff will turn off ventilation systems as quickly as possible).
- Make a list of the people with you and call the list in to Public Safety so they know where you are sheltering.
- Visit Campus Safety @ Siena for incident updates http://www.sienaheights.edu/campussafety.aspx or call the Information Line 517-264-7900. If possible, turn on a radio or television and listen for further instructions. If your email address or mobile device is registered with SHU Alerts, check for alert notifications.
- Make yourself comfortable and look after one other. You will get word as soon as it is safe to come out.
Evacuation
An evacuation will be considered if the building we are in is affected or we must move to a location of greater safety. We will always evacuate if the fire alarm sounds. In the event of an evacuation, please gather your personal belongings quickly (purse, keys, cell phone, SHU ID card, etc.) and proceed to the nearest exit. (INSERT TWO WAYS OUT OF THE BUILDING HERE). Do not use the elevator.
Once we have evacuated the building, proceed to our primary rendezvous location (INSERT PRIMARY INDOOR RENDEZVOUS LOCATION HERE). In the event that this location is unavailable, we will meet at (INSERT SECONDARY INDOOR RENDEZVOUS LOCATION HERE).
SHU Alerts
SHU Alerts provides free notification by e-mail or text message during an emergency. Visit Campus Safety @ Siena for a link and instructions on how to sign up for alerts pertaining to your campus. If you receive a SHU Alert notification during class, please share the information immediately.
Additional Information
Additional information about emergency preparedness and response at SHU as well as the University’s operating status can be found on Campus Safety @ Siena website: https://www.sienaheights.edu/campussafety.aspx or by calling
the Department of Public Safety at 517-263-0731.
Notification of campus closings will come via the SHU Alerts system. Local media outlets, internal e-mail systems, internal voice mail systems, main campus hotline, the web page, MySiena, and the Campus Safety Facebook and Twitter pages are also venues used for notification when a campus is closed. The SHU Alerts system is designed to provide instantaneous notification for all Siena Heights University campuses.
Weather-Related Campus Closures
In anticipation of the possibility of cancelling classes and/or closing the university because of bad weather, the guidelines below will be followed:
The primary source of weather and road conditions for the Adrian campus will be the radio and TV stations listed below. In addition, the university has established a phone service: (517) 264-7900.
For the Adrian campus the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (or a designate) will determine whether or not to cancel classes and/or close the university. The Vice President will consult with the President if possible.
For the off-campus centers, the Director of the Center will make the decision to cancel classes and/or close the center. The community college based centers will cancel classes and/or close when the community college does so.
The Director of the Metro Detroit Center will determine and communicate the stations to be used in case of such a decision for that Center.
If a decision is made to cancel classes and/or close the Adrian Campus of the university, the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (or a designate) will issue a SHU Alert, inform local media outlets, utilize the internal e-mail systems, internal voice mail systems, main campus hotline, the web page, MySiena, and the Campus Safety @ Siena Heights Facebook page. When announcing class cancellations or university closings, it will be specified that only the Adrian Campus is affected. It will also be announced that the cancellation or closing is for the current day only.
Please tune into the radio and television stations listed below. If possible, a decision will be made by 6:30 a.m. or the daytime classes and by 2:30 p.m. for the evening classes. If you choose to call (517) 264-7900, it would be best to do so after 7 a.m. for daytime classes and 3 p.m. for evening classes.
Please note that it is not possible to contact most of the stations to cancel classes on Saturday. The SHU Alerts system, University Information Hotline (517) 264-7900, web page, MySiena, and the Campus Safety @ Siena Heights Facebook page will be used to make the announcement if all classes are cancelled on a Saturday. Because a Saturday class usually represents one-fourth or more of the course, it would be unusual to cancel these classes.
Siena Height University (517) 264-7800
University Information Hotline: (517) 264-7900
List of Radio and Television Stations
City-Station/Call Number of Station
Adrian-WABJ/WQTE AM 1500/FM 95.3
Adrian-WLEN FM 103.9
Toledo, OH-WTOL Channel 11, CBS
Toledo, OH-WTVG Channel 13, ABC
To sign up for SHU ALERTS, visit our website or see the below text to subscribe:
Adrian Campus: Text “ADRIAN” to 79516
Completely Online Program: Text “ONLINECENTER” to 79516
Family and Friends: Text “SUPPORTERS” to 79516
Jackson (Community) College Center: Text “JACKSONCENTER” to 79516
Kellogg Community College Center: Text “LAKEMICENTER” to 79516
Lake Michigan College Center: Text “LANSINGTSP” to 79516
Lansing Theological Studies: Text “LANSINGCENTER” to 79516
Lansing Community College Center: Text “METROCENTER” to 79516
Metropolitan Detroit Program (Southfield Center): Text “MONROECENTER” to 79516
Adrian Campus Summer Camp Programs: Text “SHUSUMMER” to 79516
Department of Public Safety social media pages:
http://www.facebook.com/shualerts
Safety Tips
Stay calm
Do not confront subject if doing so is dangerous
Immediately contact Public Safety or 911
Report all incidents, suspicious people and events to Public Safety
If safe to do so write down as many details as possible
- Secure the immediate area – whether classroom, bathroom, or office
- Do not unsecure the area until cleared by emergency response personnel
- Lock the door if possible. Block the door using whatever is available
- Stay calm
- Contact 911 or Public Safety immediately
- Indicate location, shooter identity if known, how many shooters, what type(s) of weapons, if there are explosions etc.
- Treat the injured
- Turn off radios and computer monitors
- Silence cell phones
- Keep occupants calm
- Position people out of sight and behind items that might offer additional protection – walls, desks, file cabinets etc.
- Safety of the masses versus the safety of a few – if there is any doubt to the safety
- of the individuals inside the room, the area needs to remain secured
- SHU EMERGENCY ON THE ADRIAN CAMPUS 9-911 or 7800 (SHU PUBLIC SAFETY)
- CALL 911 or 517-264-7800 (SHU PUBLIC SAFETY)
- STATE LOCATION, NATURE OF EMERGENCY, YOUR NAME AND ANY OTHER RELEVENT INFORMATION
- STAY ON THE LINE UNTIL THE DISPATCH OPERATOR RELEASES YOU
- If you observe a suspicious device, do not touch or move it
- If you are advised of a bomb by phone, note the date, time, location of the call, and caller ID (there is a form located in the blue emergency response books located throughout campus)
- Ask the caller where, when , how, why the bomb was placed
- Note the age, gender, speech pattern, attitude, background noise, nationality, accent etc.
- Contact Public Safety immediately
- Evacuate the building and move to a designated area, at least 1000 feet from the building
- Remain in designated areas until released by a emergency response personnel
- Report anything suspicious to the emergency response personnel
- Follow directions from emergency response personnel
- Remain calm, assist others to remain calm
- Assist individuals who may not be able to safely evacuate on their own
- SHU EMERGENCY
- ON THE ADRIAN CAMPUS 9-911 or 7800 (SHU PUBLIC SAFETY)
- CALL 911 or 517-264-7800 (SHU PUBLIC SAFETY)
- STATE LOCATION, NATURE OF EMERGENCY, YOUR NAME AND ANY OTHER RELEVENT INFORMATION
- STAY ON THE LINE UNTIL THE DISPATCH OPERATOR RELEASES YOU
Hostage Situation
If you hear or see a hostage situation:
Immediately remove yourself from any danger
Immediately notify emergency services
o Call 911, or
o Call Adrian Campus Public Safety 517-264-7800
Be prepared to give Public Safety the following information:
Location and room number of incident
Number of possible hostage takers
Physical description and names of hostage takers, if possible
Number of possible hostages
Any weapons the hostage takers may have
Your name
Your location and phone number
If you are taken hostage:
Remain calm, be polite and cooperate with your captors.
DO NOT attempt escape unless there is an extremely good chance of survival. It is safer to be submissive and obey your captives.
Speak normally. DO NOT complain, avoid being belligerent and comply with all orders and instructions.
DO NOT draw attention to yourself with sudden body movements, statements, comments or hostile looks.
Observe the captors and try to memorize their physical traits, voice patterns, clothing or other details that can help provide a description later.
Avoid getting into political or ideological discussions with the captors.
Try to establish a relationship with your captors and get to know them. Captors are less likely to harm you if they respect you.
If forced to present terrorist demands to authorities, either in writing or on tape, state clearly that the demands are from your captors. Avoid making a plea on your own behalf.
Try to stay low to the ground or behind cover from windows or doors, if possible.
In a rescue situation:
DO NOT RUN. Drop to the floor and remain still. If that is not possible, cross your arms, bow your head, and stand still. Make no sudden moves that a tense rescuer may interpret as hostile or threatening.
Wait for instructions and obey all instruction you are given.
Do not be upset, resist, or argue if a rescuer isn’t sure whether you are a terrorist or a hostage.
Even if you are handcuffed and searched, DO NOT resist. Just wait for the confusion to clear.
You will be taken to a safe area, where proper identification and status will be determined.
- Treat the injured
- A (check airway) B (check breathing) C (check circulation)
- For bleeding apply pressure and elevate
- Report all medical emergencies, accidents, injuries to Campus Public Safety
- Adrian Campus – Public Safety has AED’s (defibrillators), Public Safety Officers are certified in CPR, First Aid and AED
- For unconsciousness: if possible do not move the victim. Keep the victim warm but not hot. If the victim is vomiting, turn him/her on their side using a barrel roll; keep his/her mouth clear, use rescue breathing/CPR if needed
- For shock (victim is pale, cold, sweaty with weak rapid pulse) lay victim flat, administer first aid, cover the victim – do not overheat
- For heat stroke (victim stops sweating, is very red and hot, and has a rapidly rising temperature) get the victim to shade and cool the victim down with wet cloths, if the victim is conscious, give him/her water
- For stings: remove stinger, apply a cold compress to the victim, if the victim is allergic or develops difficulty breathing call 911 or on the Adrian Campus 517-264-7800
- For choking apply the Heimlich maneuver, if unsuccessful or the victim is unconscious call
- 911 or on the Adrian Campus 517-264-7800, if needed apply rescue breathing/CPR
Handling alcohol emergencies:
A potentially dangerous situation exits whenever an individual consumes too much alcohol. A high blood alcohol concentration level can result in bizarre, unpredictable behavior and/or unconsciousness. Too high of a blood alcohol concentration level can result in death. The degree depends on the person’s size, what and how much the person drank, during what time period, whether the person took drugs in addition to alcohol and other circumstances.
Get help immediately if…
The person cannot be aroused by shaking or shouting
The person’s breathing is shallow, irregular or slowed to less than seven breaths per minute
The person sustained a blow to the head or any injury that caused bleeding
The person drank a large quantity (e.g. a pint of liquor) or is disoriented, incoherent or has collapsed
Call 911 or on the Adrian Campus Public Safety 517-264-7800 if a person has lost consciousness because of excessive alcohol use.
Meanwhile:
Check regularly for breathing and consciousness. Roommates and friends should arrange to stay by the person’s side
The person’s position is important. Make sure the person is lying in his/her side, with knees bent. This position will deter choking should the person vomit. Warning: care should be given in moving an unconscious victim who may have a back and/or neck injury If the person vomits, stay with him/her to see that he/she does not swallow or breathe in the vomit. Get immediate help if the person has difficulty expelling the vomit or gags on it.
Rule of thumb: if you are not sure what to do, but you think the person needs help, call 911 or on the Adrian Campus 517-264-7800.
GENERAL EVACUATION INFORMATION
Situations requiring evacuation could include but are not limited to the following:
Natural gas leak
Flammable liquid spill/and or release
Bomb threat
Power line failure
Hostage situation
Hazardous chemical spill/and or release
Flooding
Fire alarm
SEVERE WEATHER EVACUATIONS WILL BE A REVERSE EVACUATION BUILDING EVACUATION
All building evacuations will occur when an alarm sounds and/or upon notification by Siena Heights University Public Safety, Police Officer, or Fire Department personnel.
When the building evacuation alarm is activated during an emergency, leave by the nearest marked exit and alert others to do the same.
Remember that elevators should never be used during an emergency evacuation situation.
Assist persons with disabilities in exiting the building. Two or three individuals may carry the persons with disabilities from the building if the persons with disabilities cannot negotiate the stairs.
If persons with disabilities cannot be transported from the building without using an elevator – assist person with disabilities to a safe area, notify emergency personnel immediately.
Once outside, proceed to the designated gathering point. This should be a clear area that is at least 500 feet or further, depending on the type of incident, away from the affected building. Stay there. This designated area should be pre-determined by an office manager
or supervisor.
Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrant areas, and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel. Know your area assembly points.
Immediately notify emergency personnel of any injured persons and individuals remaining, in the affected building.
Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by emergency personnel, building or university officials.
ALL-CAMPUS EVACUATION
Siena Heights University Public Safety or Emergency Response personnel will announce evacuation of all or part of the campus grounds.
All persons (student and staff) are to vacate the site in question immediately and relocate to another part of the campus grounds as directed.
Follow the building evacuation procedures described above for individual building and affected sites.
FIRE ALARM-INTERMITTENT HORN
All persons must evacuate
Follow directives by Emergency Response Personnel
Do not use elevators
Assist handicapped to leave
Keep all students/faculty/staff together
Move away from all exits/entrances
Stay at least 100 feet away from building or as directed
Residence Halls & Campus Village Apartments (Adrian Campus)
Siena Heights University adheres to the local fire code and performs fire evacuation drills for the residence halls, according to the code requirements. The Public Safety team and the Residence Life staff work together to provide the residents will fire safety educational programs. Fire safety equipment is monitored and checked by the Department of Public Safety. Both residence halls and Campus Village Apartments are equipment with fire alarm systems and portable fire extinguishers. All resident rooms have smoke detectors which are hard-wired into the central fire alarm system. The hallways are equipped with fire doors and automatic door closures to hold off the spread of a fire. Both the Department of Public Safety and Resident Assistants are certified in fire safety by the Adrian Fire Department.
Learn the location of fire exits and alarm boxes near you and know the emergency number
for assistance – “0” from a house phone or 517-264-7800.
Sound the fire alarm if you see smoke or detect a burning odor.
Have a prepared escape plan and know your escape route (at least two).
Remember to remain calm.
Use exit stairs. Never use elevators.
Feel a door with the back of your hand before opening it by the door handle.
Close doors behind you as you escape. In most cases, this will prevent smoke damage and fire from entering the room you are exiting.
Do not re-enter a fire-damaged building until it has been declared safe.
If you become trapped, seal off cracks around doors and vents with cloth or rugs (soaked in water if possible).
Shut off fans and air conditioners.
Signal for help from a window. If a campus phone is available call Public Safety at “0” or from a cell phone 517-264-7800.
Stay calm. Rescue may be only moments away.
False Alarm
Activating a fire alarm while knowing that there is not a fire is a crime. The guilty party can receive up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. False fire alarms waste time, money and most importantly can cost human lives.
Tampering with fire safety equipment is a violation of University policy. See the Saints Guide and Student Code of Conduct for complete details of violations and possible sanctions.
A community hazardous materials incident where the Siena Heights University community is in danger of exposure; such as a gas leak or chemical release. Here are some tips:
Follow established evacuation plan
Contact emergency support services
o 911
o Adrian campus Department of Public Safety 517-264-7800
Refer to the hazardous materials information book (MSDS)
Do not turn on anything electrical
Do not smoke or light anything
Assess any medical emergencies; give fresh air and water until medical personal can
respond
Remove any exposed clothing
Notify authorities if there is anything combustible in the area