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Emergency Readiness

SMCCCD Home Emergency Management Emergency Readiness Access and Functional Needs

Access and Functional Needs

Disasters happen. Especially for people with disabilities, planning and preparation are the keys to being as safe as possible in an emergency. SMCCCD is committed to the safety of our students, staff, faculty, and visitors. Please see the SMCCD Access and Functional Needs Annex   here.

 

PLANNING FOR EMERGENCIES 
  • Create an individualized emergency plan.
  • Know your building's exit routes, stairways, Areas of Safe Refuge, Emergency Assembly Area, and elevators. 
  • Create a list of your care needs; share it with roommates or friends.
  • Carry a whistle if you have difficulty speaking loudly.
  • If you depend on electric life-sustaining equipment, plan for alternate power sources.
AREAS OF SAFE REFUGE
  • An Area of Safe Refuge is a waiting spot for those who need assistance evacuating the building. Call 9-1-1 or ext. 7000 (DPS) from an Area of Safe Refuge for assistance.
  • If you cannot reach your Area of Safe Refuge, find a room with an exterior window, and call 911.
  • If phones are down, signal from a window with a visible object, or use a whistle.
EMERGENCY EVACUATION CHAIRS
  • Locate Emergency Evacuation Chairs in your building.
  • Request training on Emergency Evacuation Chairs by contacting the Department of Emergency Management.
  • View Emergency Evacuation Chair Operating Instructions.
ASSISTING WITH AN EVACUATION 
  • Ask the individual if they need help, and if so, how to best assist them.
  • If you cannot get them out, lead them to an Area of Safe Refuge.
  • DON'T use elevators.
  • Assist and carry those who need to use an evacuation chair in life-threatening situations.
  • Call 9-1-1 or (650) 738-7000 / ext. 700 (DPS)