Campus Emergency Evacuation Procedures

Evacuation of one or more buildings may be necessary in the event of a fire, bomb threat, chemical spill or other type of emergency. Such an evacuation will be signaled by the use of the building fire alerting system. Upon being notified of the need for an emergency evacuation, those in the building should grab their keys, cell phone, and any needed personal property that might be needed should reoccupancy be delayed (like a purse or coat); secure their office or lab; and proceed to the nearest exit; keeping in mind that one or more exits could be blocked. Move rapidly away from the building and gather with others from your floor or department at a pre-selected location for a head-count by your CatWatch Coordinator or RA (for residence halls). 

In accordance with state and local fire codes, evacuation drills are conducted in all University residence halls at least annually, and in all other buildings on a rotating schedule. Generally announced, these drills prepare building occupants for an organized evacuation in case of fire or other emergencies. During the drill, occupants practice drill procedures and familiarize themselves with the location of exits, the evacuation routes, designated assembly locations and the sound of the fire alarm.

Building evacuation drills are conducted in coordination with the campus Fire Marshal and the Burlington Fire Department. CatWatch Coordinators (in academic and administrative buildings) assist in an orderly evacuation and confirm that everyone is out of their area.  

UVM on‐campus housing residents receive information on emergency response protocols, evacuation, and sanctions for false alarms at the beginning of the academic year through both written material and floor meetings.

Evacuation drills for on‐campus student housing are coordinated through the UVM Office of Residential Life, in collaboration with the UVM Fire Marshal and UVM Police Services. Staff in the residence halls undergo yearly training prior to the start of the academic school year covering topics such as fire suppression/safety, wheelchair/ADA evacuation, and emergency/disaster preparedness. An on-call duty resident director, who acts as liaison with responding emergency personnel, is available 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

Evacuation drills are monitored by the UVM Fire Marshal and recommendations for improvements are submitted to the appropriate departments/offices for consideration.

Last modified August 24 2012 04:36 PM