Basic Shelter-in-Place Guidance

Generally, Shelter- in- Place means simply staying indoors. Assume if an incident occurs on campus that you should shelter-in-place, or remain inside, unless you are directed to do otherwise or the building is unsafe. Examples of situations where Shelter-in-Place might be used include: Severe storms, such as tornados; Extreme life threatening temperatures (e.g., cold or heat); A public disturbance, such as a demonstration that has escalated to a violent level; Explosives, whether intentional or accidental; and chemical or biological contaminants released accidentally or intentionally into the air.

  • BE AWARE: Notification to shelter-in-place can come from Campus Safety personnel, local authorities such as the New London Police or Fire Departments, Residential Education staff or other College employees.
  • Community members may also be alerted to campus “Shelter-in-Place” status via text message, a computer connected to the college's network, e-mail, runners or other means available.
  • PREPARE: Although it is unlikely that you will ever need to shelter-in-place, it is helpful to prepare. A few simple items stored in the place you spend most of your time can make sheltering easier and more comfortable. The items include: extra prescription medicine, first-aid supplies, non-perishable food and bottled water, a flashlight, a battery-operated radio, extra batteries, and a telephone.
How to Shelter-in-Place
  • If you are inside, stay where you are. Collect any shelter-in-place supplies and a telephone to be used in case of emergency.
    • If your building is damaged take your personal belongings (CSC SmartCard, purse, wallet, keys) and follow the evacuation instructions from emergency personnel.
    • If you are outside proceed into the closest building quickly or follow the instructions from emergency personnel on the scene.
  • Shelter-in-place in an interior room, above ground level, and with the fewest windows. If there is a large group of people inside a particular building, several rooms may be necessary.
  • Shut and lock all windows (locking will form a tighter seal) and close exterior doors.
  • Turn off air conditioners, heaters, and fans. Close vents to the ventilation system as you are able. College staff will turn off the ventilation system as quickly as possible.
  • Make a list of all the people with you and ask someone (Residential Education Staff, faculty, or other staff) to call the list in to Campus Safety so that they know where you are sheltering. If only students are present, one of the students should call in the list.
  • Log onto the network and look for e-mails/pop-ups providing situational updates. Turn on a radio and tune to 90.9 FM or 99.7 FM for further instructions. Check your registered mobile device for CSCAlert updates.
  • Make yourself comfortable.
  • Look after each other. You will get word when it is safe to come out.