Emergency Preparedness

Bomb Threat Procedures at Metro State University

Immediate Response:

If you receive or overhear a bomb threat, immediately call Police at 911 and/or Metro Security at 651-793-1717. Complete the Bomb Threat Checklist as thoroughly as possible and provide it to responding emergency personnel. Do not activate a fire alarm for a threat unless directed by emergency personnel.

Threats may be communicated in various ways, such as a written note, telephone, or electronic communication. Follow these guidelines for specific types of threats:

Written Threats:

• Handle the correspondence as little as possible.

Emailed Threats:

• Leave the message on the computer.
• Remain at the computer and do not allow anyone to interfere with or tamper with the message until emergency personnel arrive.

Other Threats:

If you receive a bomb threat in person or overhear such a threat, obtain the following information if possible and practical:

• Name of the suspect
• Time and location of the threat
• Witnesses
• Exact wording of the threat
• Any other relevant information

Procedure/Action to Take:

1. Call 911 for emergency response, and Metro Security at 651-793-1717
2. Remain calm. Reference attached Bomb Threat Checklist for emergency responders below.
3. Do NOT touch suspicious objects if found.
4. Follow evacuation procedures.

University Investigation/Procedure May Include:

• Police and building personnel are notified.
• A search is conducted by police and/or building personnel.
• Campus Operation administration will determine if evacuation is necessary.
• If evacuation is advised, employees will assist emergency personnel with the orderly evacuation of the building. Follow the posted Emergency Response Guide.
• Police will contact and question the person who received the bomb threat.

Evacuation:

• If circumstances require evacuation, Metro Security or emergency personnel will direct those affected to appropriate locations.
• If an evacuation is taking place, turn off all cell phones and leave the immediate area (at least 300 feet).

Clearance:

• Buildings may be re-entered only after clearance is given by Metro Security or emergency personnel.

Bomb Threat Checklist: /sites/default/files/2024-08/Threatening%20Phone%20Call%20Guide.docx

Evacuation Maps

• Founders Hall Evacuation Maps
• Library Evacuation Maps
• New Main Evacuation Maps
• Science Center Evacuation Maps
• St. Johns Evacuation Maps
• Student Center Evacuation Maps

This detailed guide ensures that all members of the Metro State University community are prepared to handle bomb threats efficiently and safely. Familiarize yourself with these procedures to ensure a prompt and effective response in the event of a threat.

The university may change its operational state for part of a day, a whole day, or multiple days. There are three general operating states:

1. Open: Campus activity is normal with no changes in work or instructional activity.
2. Open with Remote Operations: The university is open, but classes, programs, and services are encouraged to continue remotely with minimal campus presence. Individuals unable to work in their assigned location will consult with their supervisor or take a day of vacation.
3. Closed with no Operations: The university is closed. No classes, activities, or services are offered.

Cancellation of classes does not excuse any employee from work. Faculty and staff are required to stay at work for their regularly scheduled work hours. Non-teaching employees of the university, if approved by their supervisor in advance, may take personal leave, vacation leave, or use earned compensatory time when classes are canceled if they wish to be excused from work. In the event of weather-related cancellations, supervisors are encouraged to grant an employee’s last-minute request to use leave or compensatory time if department operations will not be critically impacted.

Notifications of Class Cancellations

• The website will be updated to reflect campus closure or delayed openings.
• Announcements of class cancellation decisions and notifications will be made not later than 3 hours prior to class start time. Common class times are 9 AM, 1 PM, and 6 PM.
• University closure decisions will be made not later than 5 AM for a full-day closure or late campus opening.
• In the event that weather and road conditions deteriorate rapidly and unexpectedly after 5 AM, a decision will be made and communicated as quickly as possible.

Campus Closure

In extreme conditions, the campus may be closed and all functions, including in-person classes and events, will cease. Essential employees will need to report to work during campus closings. Notification of campus closure will be placed on the University website and email notices sent to students and staff.

Notifications

• Notification of class cancellations will be placed on the University website and email notices sent to students and staff.
• Star Alert notification via text.
• PA announcements (if necessary)

For detailed operational procedures, notifications, and contact information during short-term campus closures (up to 6 days), please contact university administration.

Road Conditions Hotline:

The Department of Transportation "511" telephone service and website inform travelers of weather-related road closures as well as up-to-the-minute metro-area traffic reports.

• To use the "511" road and traffic information service by telephone, dial 5-1-1 and say the name of a city, or say "menu" and select from the options. The options allow you to choose route reports for traffic on specific highways, get regional or transit reports, get weather reports, or leave a comment.
• To get up-to-the-minute metro-area traffic reports and statewide road conditions on the Internet, visit the MN DOT website (https://www.511mn.org). The site also provides more details about using the "511" road and traffic telephone service.

This comprehensive guide ensures that all members of the Metro State University community are aware of the procedures to follow during weather-related emergencies, class cancellations, and campus closures. Familiarize yourself with these steps to ensure safety and preparedness in any situation.

Emergency code blue phones have one panic button that, when pressed, dials directly into the safety officer's cell phone. They are to be used for emergency calls only.

Emergency code blue phones are installed in the parking lots of the Saint Paul campus at:

• Northeast 1st Floor Lobby
• Ramp 1st Floor West
• Ramp 1st Floor Southeast
• Ramp 1st Floor Northeast
• 2nd Floor Lobby
• Ramp 2nd Floor West
• Ramp 2nd Floor Southeast
• Ramp 2nd Floor Northeast
• 3rd Floor Lobby
• Ramp 3rd Floor West
• Ramp 3rd Floor Southeast
• Ramp 3rd Floor Northeast
• 4th Floor Lobby
• Ramp 4th Floor West
• Ramp 4th Floor Southeast
• Ramp 4th Floor Northeast
• 5th Floor Lobby
• Ramp 5th Floor West
• Ramp 5th Floor Southeast
• Ramp 5th Floor Northeast
• North Park: 7th & Bates Corner
• Surface Lot West
• Surface Lot Middle
• Student Center North Entrance
• Surface Lot East

Evacuations & Shelter in Place at Metro State University

The evacuation of all or part of the campus will be announced and, depending on circumstances, directed by emergency personnel, Metro Security, Facilities Services, or administrators. All persons may be asked to immediately vacate the site in question and may be directed to relocate to a specific site.

1. Leave the building swiftly using the nearest safe exit.
2. Do not use elevators, unless authorized by police, fire, or other emergency personnel.
3. Once outside, proceed to a clear area away from the affected building.
   • Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrant areas, and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel.
   • Evacuate further if directed by emergency personnel.
4. Do not return to an evacuated building until informed by emergency personnel that it is safe to enter.

Evacuation Procedures for Individuals with Disabilities or Others Needing Assistance

- If you are permanently or temporarily disabled or otherwise in need of assistance, please inform Accessibility Resources https://www.metrostate.edu/accessibility to help determine an action plan based on your specific needs.

Shelter in Place:

In the event of an emergency, University Administration may notify the campus community to either shelter-in-place or go into lockdown. This means to seek immediate refuge and remain during the emergency.

1. If outside, seek cover in the nearest building.
   • If the building is locked, move away from the danger.
2. Avoid doors and windows, turn off lights, and silence phones.
3. Lock or block entry to your hiding place. Hide: Concealment vs. Cover.
4. Do not leave until an "all clear" is issued.
5. If safe to do so, go to https://www.metrostate.edu/students/support/safety for the latest information.
6. If the emergency involves a hazardous material, select a small interior room with no or few windows and take refuge there.
   • Close windows and apply duct tape if advised to do so.
7. Call 911 or Metro Security at 651-793-1717.

This comprehensive guide ensures that all members of the Metro State University community are aware of the procedures to follow in both evacuation and shelter-in-place scenarios. Please familiarize yourself with these steps to ensure a quick and efficient response in any situation.

Evacuation Maps

• Founders Hall Evacuation Maps
• Library Evacuation Maps
• New Main Evacuation Maps
• Science Center Evacuation Maps
• St. Johns Evacuation Maps
• Student Center Evacuation Maps

Fire Procedures at Metro State University

Immediate Actions:

1. See or Smell Smoke:

• Immediately pull the nearest fire alarm.
• Leave the building.
• Call 911 from a safe area.
• Provide the following information:
  • Location of the fire
  • Building and room number (if known)
  • Your name and telephone number
• Stay on the line until the dispatcher releases you.
• Remain in the vicinity outside the building to supply information, upon request, to responding emergency personnel.

2. Fire Alarms:

• Always take fire alarms seriously. When a fire alarm has been activated, everyone must evacuate the building immediately.
• Persons who do not leave the building when a fire alarm is sounding may be subject to disciplinary action and/or possible criminal charges.

Evacuation Procedures:

1. Evacuate All Rooms:

• Close all doors to confine the fire but do not lock them.
• Check doors for heat before opening.
• Open doors slowly and check for smoke.
• Fire doors leading into the stairwell landing should be closed.

2. Do Not Use Elevators:

• Power may fail causing the elevator to stop between floors, or elevator doors may open onto the fire floor.

3. Assisting Disabled Persons:

• Disabled persons unable to move down the stairwells should move to a stairwell without blocking traffic.
• Immediately notify emergency personnel of any person left in the building along with their locations.

4. Assembly Areas:

• Move to interior short-term assembly areas as needed: /sites/default/files/2024-08/Emergency_Evacuation_Procedure_Website.docx

Using a Fire Extinguisher:

1. When to Use:

• Only if you are trained and confident in fire extinguisher use.
• Only if the fire is small (no larger than a small trash can).

2. If You Fight the Fire:

• Use only ONE extinguisher, then evacuate the building.
• Remember: You are NOT obligated to fight fires of any size. If you have any doubt, do not attempt to fight the fire.

If Caught in Smoke:

1. Stay Low:

• Smoke will rise to ceiling level first. Drop to hands and knees and crawl toward the nearest exit.
• Hold your breath as much as possible; breathe through your nose and use a filter such as a shirt, towel, or handkerchief.
• Be aware of your surroundings; take note of and follow EXIT signs.

If Trapped in a Room Due to Fire or Smoke:

1. Call Metro Security:

• Call 651-793-1717 to report your location and conditions.

2. Create Barriers:

• Close as many doors as possible between you and the fire.
• Wet and place cloth material around or under the door to help prevent smoke from entering the room.

3. Signal for Help:

• If the room has an outside window, be prepared to signal to someone outside.

If Clothing Is on Fire (Stop, Drop, and Roll):

1. Direct or Assist:

• Roll the person around on the floor to smother the flames.
• Drench with water if immediately available.
• Obtain medical attention. Call 911 for EMS help.
• Report the incident to a supervisor and Metro Security.

Additional Reminders:

1. Fire Alarms:

• Building fire alarms may stop ringing. If they stop, do not return to the building unless notified by responding emergency personnel.

2. Know the Locations:

• Familiarize yourself with the locations of fire alarm pull stations, fire extinguishers, and exits.

Evacuation Maps

• Founders Hall Evacuation Maps
• Library Evacuation Maps
• New Main Evacuation Maps
• Science Center Evacuation Maps
• St. Johns Evacuation Maps
• Student Center Evacuation Maps

This comprehensive guide ensures that all members of the Metro State University community are aware of the procedures to follow in the event of a fire. Familiarize yourself with these steps to ensure a quick and efficient response in any situation.

Procedures for Environmental Spills Involving Hazardous Materials at Metro State University

Immediate Actions:

1. Evacuate the Area:

• Evacuate the affected area of the spill immediately and help others keep away.

2. Report Chemical Spills:

• Call 911 for police and/or fire department if emergency response is necessary.
• Call Metro Security at 651-793-1717 for immediate assistance.

3. Safety Precautions:

• Try not to inhale gases, fumes, and smoke. Cover your mouth with a cloth while leaving.
• Try to stay upstream, uphill, and upwind of the accident.

4. Assisting Victims:

• Remove the victim(s) from the spill area to fresh air if possible, without endangering or contaminating yourself.

5. Do Not Return:

• Do not return to the area until notified by emergency personnel that it is safe to do so.

This comprehensive guide ensures that all members of the Metro State University community are aware of the procedures to follow in the event of an environmental spill involving hazardous materials. Familiarize yourself with these steps to ensure a quick and efficient response in any situation.

An imminent threat may be a cause for a lockdown or lockout. The purpose of a lockdown/lockout is to minimize exposure to danger by securing yourself in a safe area. A lockdown/lockout would be implemented when requested by campus security, local law enforcement, fire department, campus administration or any other credible source of information. Lockdown/Lockout notification will be provided through the campus PA system, Star Alert, or other means of notification.

Access cards will NOT WORK in a LOCKDOWN/LOCKOUT due to security issues.

What is the difference between Lockout and Lockdown?

Lockdown – Violent Actions are INSIDE the buildings.

• All exterior doors will be unlocked – For Law Enforcement to gain entry into the building
• All interior doors will be locked to keep individuals out of these spaces; individuals have the
  option to exit locked doors.

Lockout – Violent Actions are OUTSIDE the buildings, around the property or near our location.

• All exterior doors will be locked
• All interior doors will be unlocked (so students and employees are able to gain entry into any
  room for shelter away from hallways, windows and doors). Individuals have the option to exit
  locked doors.

What will Security do?

With every situation, we follow our basic protocols and then adjust accordingly.

Officers will do the following:

• Monitor the situation and announce over the PA system for immediate update.
• Stay in contact with St. Paul Police Department
• Assist when/where needed
• Monitor the exterior of the buildings looking for students and employees to notify
• Tune in to the Citizen App, news, police radio, etc

What can we (Employees/Students) do?

Campus Lockdown Immediate Action Plan (Violence INSIDE the building)

1. Secure the immediate area. Whether a classroom, office, or other
   • Lock or barricade the door, if able. Block the door using whatever is available – desks,
     tables, file cabinets, other furniture, books, etc.
   • After securing the door, stay behind solid objects away from the door as much as
     possible.
   • If the assailant enters your room and leaves, lock or barricade the door behind them.
   • If safe to do so, allow other to seek refuge with you
2. Protective Actions. Take appropriate steps to reduce your vulnerability
   • Close blinds and Block windows
   • Turn off radios and computer monitors
   • Silence cell phones
   • Place signs in exterior windows to identify your location to emergency responders and
     the location of inured persons
   • Turn off lights and remain calm and quiet
   • After securing the room, people should be positioned out of sight and behind items that
     might offer additional protection – walls, desks, etc.
3. Unsecured Areas. If you find yourself in an open area, seek shelter
   • Put something between you and the assailant
   • Consider trying to escape, if you know where the assailant is and there appears to be an
     escape route immediately available to you
   • If in doubt, find the safest area and secure it anyway possible.

When the condition causing the lockdown has been eliminated, an “all clear” announcement will be
made over the campus PA system. Emergency responders will also walk through the campus and clear
areas on a floor-by-floor basis

Campus Lockout Immediate Action Plan (Violence OUTSIDE buildings)

1. Get into any campus building.
   • Get away from windows, doors, entry/exits
   • Assist those that might be “frozen” due to the alert
2. Get out of site
   • Leave any rooms that have windows
   • Refrain from leaving the building until all clear is called
3. If the outside violence gets inside
   • Follow the Campus Lockdown Emergency Operations Plan

When the condition causing the lockout has been eliminated, an “all clear” announcement will be
made over the campus PA system.

Evacuation Maps

• Founders Hall Evacuation Maps
• Library Evacuation Maps
• New Main Evacuation Maps
• Science Center Evacuation Maps
• St. Johns Evacuation Maps
• Student Center Evacuation Maps

Medical Emergencies at Metro State University

Immediate Response:

If you are involved in or witness any medical emergency, immediately call 911 or Metro Security at 651-793-1717

Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

AEDs are available on campus and can be used in cases of cardiac arrest. Familiarize yourself with their locations and usage instructions.

• Student Center, Security Desk
• Founder's Hall, Security Window
• Science Education Center, 2nd Floor
• New Main, 1st Floor, North End
• St. Johns Hall, LL near Mailroom
• Library, 1st Floor Help Desk
• Public Library, 1st Floor, Reception
• Parking Ramp, 1st Floor Vestibule
• Midway Location

Non-Emergency Situations When Student Health Services is Closed:

• If you are ill or injured and want or need medical care, seek care at a local urgent care facility or hospital.
• If you are unsure about the need for medical care, you can call Metro Security for assistance. Security will help evaluate the situation and contact EMS if needed or requested.
• For severe or potentially life-threatening medical or mental health emergencies, call 911 or go to a local hospital emergency room.

First Aid and Large-Scale Emergencies:

Security is prepared to offer basic first aid.

• If the local emergency services are on site of the emergency (e.g., tornado, fire, flood) or if there is a large number of injuries, Student Center SC 101 or Great Hall will be used as an emergency site.
• Local emergency services will be contacted to provide additional medical personnel.

American Red Cross AED Instructions: https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/aed/using-an-aed/aed-steps

Narcan Use Guidance

Immediate Response: If you are involved in or witness any medical emergency, immediately call 911 or Metro Security at 651-793-1717.

Narcan Overview: Narcan (naloxone) is a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. It can quickly restore normal breathing to a person if their breathing has slowed or stopped due to an opioid overdose.

Narcan Locations: For location reference, the Narcan kits are located at each AED storage container location listed above.

How to Use Narcan:

1. Assess the Situation:
   • Check if the person is unresponsive and has slow or no breathing.
   • Call 911 immediately.
2. Administer Narcan:
   • Nasal Spray:
     1. Lay the person on their back.
     2. Remove the Narcan nasal spray from the packaging.
     3. Tilt the person’s head back and provide support under their neck with your hand.
     4. Insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril until your fingers touch the bottom of the person’s nose.
     5. Press the plunger firmly to release the dose into the person’s nose.
   • Injectable:
     1. Prepare the syringe according to the instructions provided with the medication.
     2. Inject Narcan into the muscle of the thigh, upper arm, or buttocks.
3. Provide Support:
   • If the person does not respond in 2-3 minutes, administer a second dose.
   • Lay the person on their side (recovery position) to keep their airway clear.
   • Stay with the person until emergency personnel arrive.
4. Aftercare:
   • Narcan may wear off after 30-90 minutes, and the person may stop breathing again. Continuous monitoring is crucial.

Resource Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9Sv64FJPhg

Evacuation Maps

• Founders Hall Evacuation Maps
• Library Evacuation Maps
• New Main Evacuation Maps
• Science Center Evacuation Maps
• St. Johns Evacuation Maps
• Student Center Evacuation Maps

This comprehensive guide ensures that all members of the Metro State University community are aware of the procedures to follow in both medical and mental health emergencies. Please familiarize yourself with these steps to ensure a quick and efficient response in any situation.

Preparation and Monitoring

• Portable Devices: Ensure you have access to a portable AM/FM radio or a cellular phone with emergency alert notifications to follow weather updates.
• Tornado Shelters: Each building on campus has a designated tornado shelter location. Familiarize yourself with these locations in advance.

Severe Weather Announcements

• Public Warning Signal: Alerts will be broadcasted via radio and TV (no siren unless a tornado is imminent).
• Radio Stations:
  • AM: KYSM 1230, KTOE 1420
  • FM: KMSU 89.7, KXLP 94.1, KDOG 96.7, KEEZ 99.1, KYSM 103.5
• Television Stations: WCCO ch. 4, KEYC ch. 12 (10 on cable), KARE ch. 11, KSTP ch. 5, and KMSP ch. 9
• NOAA Weather Radio: Receive alerts directly from NOAA Weather Radio.
• Cell Phone Apps: Use weather applications for real-time updates.

Understanding Weather Alerts

• Watch: Risk of a weather hazard in the near future. Have a plan of action.
• Warning: Weather hazard is occurring, imminent, or likely. Take protective action immediately.
• Advisory: Weather hazard is occurring, imminent, or likely. Use caution.
• Outlook: Risk of a weather hazard in the next 7 days. Prepare a plan of action.

Tornado Warning

• Signal: A steady blast on the Civil Defense Siren for 3-5 minutes. Alerts are also sent to Metro Security from the National Severe Weather System.
• Monthly Test: Sirens are tested on the first Wednesday of each month at 1 PM.
• University Alert: Tornado warning announcements will be broadcasted over the University Emergency Public Address System.
• Monthly Test: The public address system is tested on the first Wednesday of each month

Tornado Warning Actions

1. React Immediately: Do not wait to see the tornado.
2. Seek Shelter: Move to the lowest level possible, in an interior room or hallway. Avoid elevators, windows, doors, and large open areas.
3. Stay Low: Crouch near the floor or under heavy, wall-supported objects.
4. Protect Yourself: Cover your head with your hands and arms to protect against flying debris.
5. Evacuate to Shelters: Proceed to pre-designated tornado shelters and avoid being a sightseer. Take a portable battery-operated AM/FM radio to stay informed about weather updates, such as tornado warning expirations or extensions.

Resources:

• Metro State Weather Cancellations and Closures: https://www.metrostate.edu/notices/weather
• Severe Weather Preparedness Guide: https://www.weather.gov/media/owlie/ttl6-10.pdf
• MN DOT: https://www.511mn.org/

By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of others during severe weather events at Metro State University. For more information and updates, visit the university’s emergency preparedness website.

Suspicious Behavior at Metro State University

We can all help keep our campus community safe by paying attention to our surroundings and reporting suspicious activity to Metro Security at 651-793-1717 or Police at 911. Suspicious activity is any observed behavior that could indicate a person(s) may be involved in a crime or about to commit a crime.

The campus promotes the "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign to report suspicious activity based on unusual behavior. Factors such as race, ethnicity, age, and/or religious affiliations are not suspicious. We all have something worth protecting; an informed, alert public plays a critical role in keeping our campus safe and protecting you.

What is Suspicious Behavior?

1. Unusual Items or Situations:

• A vehicle parked in an odd location.
• A package or luggage is unattended.
• A window or door is open that is usually closed.
• Multiple false alarms or fictitious emergency calls to a location, possibly to test emergency response.

2. Eliciting Information:

• A person questioning individuals at a level beyond curiosity about a building’s purpose, operations, security procedures, and/or personnel.
• Attempts to gain unusual information in person, by phone, mail, or email regarding your business or a facility nearby.

3. Stockpiling Supplies:

• Observing abandoned vehicles, suspicious materials, trash, or persons loitering.

4. Acquiring Supplies:

• Awareness of anyone trying to improperly acquire explosives, weapons, ammunition, or other dangerous materials.
• A person purchasing items in quantities higher than household use that could be used to construct an explosive device (e.g., hydrogen peroxide, acetone, gasoline, propane, or fertilizer) or storing large quantities of these items.

5. Surveillance:

• Someone paying unusual attention to facilities or buildings beyond a casual or professional interest.
• Concealing the use of a camera or video camera.
• Making notes, diagrams, or sketches of an area.
• Asking unusual questions about or having a prolonged and unexplained interest in the facility, infrastructure, or security.
• Making observations of or asking questions about facility HVAC (ventilation) systems.
• Observing security reaction drills or procedures at a facility.
• Attempting unauthorized access to facility areas.
• Taking pictures or video of security cameras, loading docks, ingress and egress points, etc.

Resources:

• DHS: Recognize the Signs of Suspicious Activity: https://www.dhs.gov/see-something-say-something/recognize-the-signs

This guide ensures that all members of the Metro State University community are aware of the types of suspicious behavior to watch for and the appropriate steps to take in reporting such activities. Familiarize yourself with these indicators to help maintain a safe and secure campus environment.

General Guidelines for Handling Suspicious Mail

1. Notify Security: Immediately contact Metro Security at (651) 793-1717. If you perceive an immediate danger, call 911.
2. Isolate and Seal Off Area: Do not handle the package. Place it in a plastic bag or container to prevent leakage. Evacuate the room and, if possible, turn off air flows such as fans or air conditioning.
3. Protective Measures: Mail handlers should wear protective gloves if necessary.
4. Do Not Disturb: Do not shake, empty, or carry the package to other areas. If contents spill, cover them with clothing, paper, or a trash can but do not attempt to clean up.
5. Wash Hands: Anyone who has touched the mail should wash their hands and face with soap and water. List all individuals who handled the mail, including their contact information, and provide this to EMS personnel and Metro Security.
6. Shower and Contain: Those exposed should shower and place clothing in plastic bags for police. Ensure impacted individuals receive proper medical attention and provide their contact information to public health officials.
7. Verify Sender: Attempt to verify the sender or legitimacy of the package with the recipient.

Things to Look for When Inspecting Mail

• Unusual Sender: Origination postmark or sender's name is unusual or unknown; no return address or mismatched postmark and return address.
• Postage: Excessive or inadequate postage.
• Address: Addressed to title only or an incorrect title; addressed to someone no longer employed.
• Misspellings: Common words or names are misspelled.
• Restrictive Marking: Marked as "PERSONAL," "EYES ONLY," or "SPECIAL DELIVERY."
• Appearance: Lopsided, unusually thick, or uneven envelope.
• Weight: Excessive weight for its size.
• Damage: Damaged envelope or package.
• Contents: Stiffness, springiness, protruding wires, aluminum foil, oily outer wrapping, or powdery substance.
• Stains and Odors: Oily stains, discoloration, or emitting odors such as almond or other suspicious smells.
• Crystallization or Powder: Presence of crystallization or powdery substances on the wrapper.
• Sounds: Ticking sound.

Things to Look for When Opening Mail

• Substances: Powders, soil, sand, liquids, oily or soapy residues.
• Residues: Sticky, adhesive, flakes, crystals, fibers.

Always remain vigilant and follow these guidelines to ensure the safety of the campus community. For more information and updates, refer to the emergency preparedness resources on the Metro State University website.

Threatening Phone Call or Email Procedures

Immediate Response:

If You Receive a Threatening Phone Call:

1. Stay Calm: Remain calm and do not panic.
2. Gather Information: Try to gather as much information as possible without provoking the caller.
   • Ask questions such as:
     1. Who is calling and why?
     2. What is the exact nature of the threat?
     3. Where is the threat located?
     4. When is the threat supposed to happen?
     5. How will the threat be carried out?
3. Document Details: Note the exact time of the call, the phone number if available, and any distinguishing characteristics of the caller's voice (e.g., accent, background noise).
4. Do Not Hang Up: Keep the caller on the line as long as possible to gather more information.
5. Notify Authorities:
   • Call 911 immediately to report the threat.
   • Contact Metro Security at 651-793-1717 and provide all details of the call.
6. Complete the Threatening Call Checklist: Use the Threatening Call Checklist to document all relevant details.

If You Receive a Threatening Email:

1. Do Not Delete the Email: Keep the email in your inbox.
2. Document Details: Note the date, time, sender's email address, and any other relevant information.
3. Notify Authorities:
   • Call 911 if the threat is immediate.
   • Contact Metro Security at 651-793-1717 and provide all details of the email.
4. Do Not Reply: Do not reply to the threatening email or engage with the sender.
5. Preserve Evidence: Take screenshots of the email and print a copy if possible.

Procedure/Action to Take:

1. Call 911 for emergency response, and Metro Security at 651-793-1717.
2. Remain Calm: Follow the instructions of the emergency personnel.
3. Do Not Delete or Alter Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the threat.
4. Follow Evacuation Procedures: If instructed by authorities, follow evacuation procedures promptly.

University Investigation/Procedure May Include:

1. Notification of Authorities: Police and relevant university officials will be notified.
2. Investigation: An investigation will be conducted by the police and/or university officials.
3. Communication: Updates and instructions will be communicated to the university community as needed.

Resources:

• Threatening Phone Call or Email Checklist: /sites/default/files/2024-08/Threatening%20Phone%20Call%20Guide.docx
• Metro State University Security Contact: 651-793-1717

This detailed guide ensures that all members of the Metro State University community are prepared to handle threatening phone calls or emails efficiently and safely. Familiarize yourself with these procedures to ensure a prompt and effective response in the event of a threat.

Utility failures can include electrical power outages, disrupted network service, interrupted telephone service, and unavailable water or heat. In the event of a major utility failure, follow these guidelines:

Immediate Actions

1. Assess Danger: If there is potential danger to occupants or risk of serious damage to the building, call 911 immediately.
2. Evacuate if Necessary: If an emergency exists, evacuate the building using the designated routes.

During Business Hours

1. Notify Campus Operations at (651) 793-1700. If telephone service is unavailable, go to the Metro Security office located in Founders Hall 321.

After Business Hours/Weekends

1. Notify Metro Security: Contact Metro Security at (651) 793-1717. If telephone service is unavailable, go to the Metro Security office located in Founders Hall 321.

General Safety Measures

• Stay Informed: Keep updated with notifications from the university’s emergency system.
• Use Flashlights: In case of a power outage, use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fire hazards.
• Avoid Elevators: Do not use elevators during a utility failure, especially during a power outage.
• Conserve Resources: Limit the use of water and other resources if they are disrupted or unavailable.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure your safety and the safety of others during utility failures. For more information and updates, visit the Metro State University emergency preparedness website.

Weapon on Campus

1. Call for Help: Immediately dial 911 and/or Metro Security at (651) 793-1717.
2. Wait for Authorities: Do not confront the person with the weapon. Wait for police or security to arrive.
3. No Intervention: Do not make any effort to intervene.
4. Policy Reminder: Remember, weapons are prohibited on campus.

Active Shooter Response

1. Run: If it's safe, get away from the threat as quickly as possible. Move to a safe location.
2. Hide: If you cannot escape, find a secure place to hide. Lock or barricade doors, silence phones, and turn off lights. Prepare to defend yourself if necessary.
3. Fight: As a last resort, if you are in imminent danger, fight back with all your energy. Use improvised weapons or throw objects, and keep moving.
4. Call for Help: When safe, call 911 or Metro Security at (651) 793-1725.

Hostage Situation

Witness

1. Do Not Intervene: If the hostage-taker is unaware of your presence, do not intervene.
2. Call 911: Notify the authorities immediately.
3. Stay on the Line: If requested by the police, stay on the phone as long as it is safe to do so.
4. Avoid the Area: Do not enter the hostage scene and advise others to stay away.
5. Follow Directions: Follow police instructions upon their arrival.

If You Are Taken Hostage

1. Follow Instructions: Obey the hostage taker’s commands.
2. Stay Calm: Remain calm and try to calm others.
3. Be Respectful: Treat the hostage taker with respect.
4. Communicate: Ask for permission before speaking and avoid arguing.

Prevention and Reporting

• Proactive Measures: Faculty, staff, and students should be proactive in preventing violent situations.
• Report Incidents: Report all incidents of threats, physical assaults, or violent encounters to the Mankato Police Department and/or Metro Security.

Shelter in Place

1. Stay Put: Seek immediate refuge during an active shooter or violent incident. Remain there until advised it is safe to leave by emergency personnel.
2. Stay Informed: If safe, check https://www.metrostate.edu/students/support/safety for updates.
3. Secure Your Location: Turn off lights, silence phones, and block entry to your hiding place. Lock the door if possible.
4. Hide: Find a secure spot to hide and stay quiet.
5. Call for Help: When safe, call 911 or Metro Security at (651) 793-1725.

Resources:

• Educational Resource: View the "Run, Hide, Fight" video by the FBI for more detailed guidance: https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/run-hide-fight-092120.mp4/view
• Lockdown & Lockout Guidelines: /sites/default/files/2023-05/Lockdown-Lockout%20Guidance.pdf'

Evacuation Maps

• Founders Hall Evacuation Maps
• Library Evacuation Maps
• New Main Evacuation Maps
• Science Center Evacuation Maps
• St. Johns Evacuation Maps
• Student Center Evacuation Maps

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the safety of yourself and others during violent incidents on campus. For more information and resources, visit the Metro State University emergency preparedness website.