Universal Emergency Procedures are a set of standard, clear directives that may be implemented across a variety of emergency situations. When an emergency begins, the Incident Commander (IC), will decide which Universal Emergency Response Procedures to implement, based on the situation.

Use the HSEMA Evacuation Route Lookup to find your route prior to an event.

Alert Status Procedures

This protocol applies to emergency conditions which require immediate secured access to the building(s).

Evacuation Procedures for Buildings

Emergency conditions dictate the relocation of all building occupants to locations outside the building. For example, fires, gas leaks, hazard chemical spills and releases within a building, and bomb threats.

Lockdown Procedures - REVISED

For emergency conditions which dictate securing the building to protect occupants from potential dangers within or outside the building—physical and workplace threats—the principal or the principal’s designee, acting as the IC, is the only person authorized to order a lockdown.

Medical Emergencies - REVISED

Medical emergencies are those illnesses or injuries which require first aid and emergency backup to ensure the safety and health of the person(s) involved.

Severe Weather Safe Area Procedures

In cases of severe weather such as severe thunder storms and tornadoes, it may become necessary to relocate all building occupants to Severe Weather Safe Areas within the building to protect them from flying glass or other projectiles.

Universal Emergency Response Chart

Universal Emergency Response Chart is a one-page quick reference guide to responding to emergency situations, such as evacuations, alert statuses, lockdown, shelter-in-place, severe weather safe areas and drop, cover & hold.