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Emergency Readiness

SMCCCD Home Emergency Management Emergency Readiness Evacuation Plan

Evacuation Plan

Emergency Assembly Area

The Emergency Assembly Area (EAA) for a campus building is noted on the Emergency Procedures signs posted by exits and stairways. EAAs are open areas located a safe distance from a building that serve as rally points during an evacuation. (EAAs should not be confused with Designated Waiting Areas.)

How to Evacuate (Stay Calm and Be Safe)

  • Take Go Bag (if available) 
  • Walk, don't run
  • Use stairs (never use elevators during an evacuation)
  • Assemble in your Emergency Assembly Area (EAA). During a large-scale evacuation, your building's EAA may not be available, so follow the instructions of first responders, District leadership, or Public Safety. 
  • Do not re-enter until allowed by emergency personnel 
  • Call Public Safety Dispatch at ext. 7000 or (650) 738-7000

Practice Your Evacuation

  • Make a Go Bag
  • Know your building's exit routes and stairways 
  • Look for Emergency Procedures signs at the exits and stairways, and locate your Emergency Assembly Area (EAA)
  • Participate in building evacuation drills.

Evacuation of People with Access and Functional Needs

  • Evacuation of people with disabilities will be given the highest priority by all.
  • Check on people with special needs during an evacuation, determine if they have established a "buddy system," and ensure their safe evacuation.
  • Always ASK someone with a disability how you can help BEFORE attempting any rescue technique or giving assistance. 
  • Do NOT use elevators unless authorized by the Campus Public Safety or Fire Department personnel. Elevators could fail during a fire, earthquake, or flood
  • If you have a disability, please visit the following links to help prepare for an evacuation:

BLINDNESS OR VISUAL IMPAIRMENT GUIDE:

  • Tell the person the nature of the emergency and offer to guide him/her by offering your elbow (this is the preferred method when acting as a "Sighted Guide"). Do NOT grasp a visually impaired person's arm. 
  • Give verbal instructions to advise about the safest route or direction using compass directions, estimated distances, and directional terms or information. 
  • As you walk, tell the person where you are and advise of any obstacles, e.g. stairs, overhanging objects, uneven pavement, curbs, and narrow passageways.
  • When you have reached the designated Emergency Assembly Point (EAP), orient the person to where he/she is and ask if any further assistance is needed.
  • Some individuals may have dog guides that may be disoriented during the emergency and may require additional assistance.
  • White canes and other mobility aids should NOT be left behind. 

DEAFNESS OR HEARING LOSS GUIDE:

  • Write a note stating what the emergency is and what the evacuation route is i.e. "Fire - go out the rear door to Parking Lot".
  • Turn the room lights on and off to gain attention - then indicate through hand gestures or writing (i.e. on a blackboard) what is happening and where to go.
  • Offer visual instructions to advice of safest route or directions by pointing toward exits or evacuation map.

MOBILITY IMPAIRMENTS GUIDE:

  • It may be necessary to help clear the exit route of debris (if possible) so that the person with a disability can move out or to a safer area.
  • If people with mobility impairments cannot exit, they should move to a safer area, e.g., most enclosed stairwells, or an office with the door shut which is a good distance from the hazard (and away from falling debris in the case of earthquakes.)

WHEELCHAIR/NON-AMBULATORY 

  • Most non-ambulatory people will be able to exit safely without assistance out of single-story buildings.
  • Always ask the person what method of assistance they prefer. If the person prefers to be moved in their wheelchair, the wheelchair user will be carried facing away from the stairs.
  • If moving a person more than three (3) flights, a "relay team" arrangement is needed.  If a wheelchair is left behind, do NOT leave it in an exit path or doorway to become an obstacle
  • Power wheelchairs may have heavy batteries, which are difficult to remove.  In this situation, the best response may be to ask the person to transfer to an evacuation chair.
  • If attempting to move a power wheelchair, remove the batteries.  Make sure the footrests are locked, the motor is off, and it is in neutral gear. 

Know When to Leave

  • A fire alarm sounds, or an authorized person (e.g, Building Captain, Public Safety, First Responder) directs you to evacuate
  • An emergency evacuation alert via
  • A prolonged utility outrage
  • Anytime you feel unsafe