Responding to Emergencies

An emergency on campus has a very broad definition. It can be any event or situation requiring immediate action and which threatens the health, safety, security, or well-being of the campus community.

On campus emergency situations may include but are not limited to:

• Incidents of persons in extreme emotional distress

• Accidents involving personal injury and/or property damage

• Incidents of inter-personal conflict (verbal or physical)

• Incidents involving theft of personal or College property

• Incidents involving the use or sale of drugs or alcohol

• Any incident which represents a threat to the safety or security of individuals and/or the campus

Any member of the campus community who is aware of an emergency situation should take immediate steps to protect themselves (and others if possible) from an immediate danger or threat. Individuals should use their best judgment when considering steps to intervene or diffuse a situation while constantly keeping in mind that individual safety is paramount. If deemed appropriate, call 911 to request the appropriate emergency service (paramedic, police, fire).

All emergency situations should be reported to the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management as soon as possible. The report should be made using the SSCC Incident Report form which can be obtained at the Campus Director’s office or under the "Frequently Used Forms" link on the SSCC web page. Individuals making the report should complete the form in its entirety providing as many details as possible. Upon receipt of the form, the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management will determine the appropriate course of action (follow-up investigation, notification to other departments, referral to the Behavior Response Team, enforcement of student conduct policy, etc).