What to do

In the event of an emergency, you may be directed to take immediate action. Please follow these guidelines, as well as additional instructions you may receive from the Connecticut College officials.

Shelter in Place

If you are asked to shelter in place:

  • Go indoors and close all windows and doors. Turn off fans and heating and air conditioning that require outside air, and close any other air intakes.
  • Do not sound the fire alarm. A fire alarm would signal the occupants to evacuate the building and thus place them in potential harm as they attempt to exit.
  • Lock the windows and close blinds or curtains. Stay away from the windows.
  • Turn off lights and all audio equipment.
  • Turn cell phones to “silent” or “vibrate,” but do not turn your phone off.
  • If you have a smartphone, check your email or the College’s Twitter (@ConnCollege, @ConnCollegeLive) or Facebook (facebook.com/ConnecticutCollege) for information updates.
  • Try to remain as calm as possible.
  • Cover all open food containers.
  • Remain indoors until officially notified the emergency is over.
  • Stay tuned to the local radio or television stations for emergency information.
  • Stay in place and await additional information.

Evacuate the Campus

The designated Evacuation Assembly Center for the New London community is Windham High School, 355 High Street, Willimantic, Conn. If you are asked to evacuate the campus:

  • Proceed directly to the designated Evacuation Assembly Center at the Windham High School, in Windham.

  • Take clothing (3 changes), toilet articles, necessary medications, important papers and valuables (money, credit cards, jewelry, etc.). Supplies such as sleeping bags, a portable radio, flashlight and batteries may also be taken.

  • Keep phone lines open for emergency use. 

  • Assist other members of the campus community without transportation. If you do not have your own transportation, make plans to ride with someone who has transportation.

  • While evacuating, keep car windows and vents closed, and air conditioners turned off.

  • Drive safely. Stay tuned to your Emergency Alert System radio station for further information.

  • New London’s Emergency Operations Center will monitor wind direction and will broadcast any Evacuation Assembly Center changes

  • If you have a smartphone, check your email or the College’s Twitter (@ConnCollege, @ConnCollegeLive) or Facebook (facebook.com/ConnecticutCollege) for information updates.

Evacuate a Campus Building

If you are asked to evacuate a campus building:

  • Building evacuations will occur when the evacuation alarm sounds and/or upon notification by the Emergency Response Coordinator or Campus Safety.
  • When the building evacuation alarm is activated during an emergency, head to the nearest marked exit and alert others to do the same.
  • Assist disabled individuals in exiting the building. Do not use the elevators in case of fire or earthquake.
  • Once outside, proceed directly to the appropriate “Designated Assembly Area.” Stay there until an accurate head count is taken and you have been told it is safe to leave, or are directed to an alternate location.
  • Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrant areas and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel.
  • If you have a smartphone, check your email or the College’s Twitter (@ConnCollege, @ConnCollegeLive) or Facebook (facebook.com/ConnecticutCollege) for information updates.
  • DO NOT return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by a Connecticut College or Fire Department Official.