Hurricanes
To provide accurate and timely information, regarding established procedures, in the event of a hurricane.
Winthrop University community, faculty, staff, students, and guests.
| Policy Number: | 6.2.7 |
| Effective Date: | 01/01/2016 |
| Date Reviewed: | 01/01/2016 |
| Last Review Date: | 04/21/2021 |
| Responsible Official: | Campus Police |
| Responsible Office: | |
| Contact Information: |
Campus Police: |
1.0 Specific meanings of bold terms seen throughout this policy can be found within the University's policy definition glossary by following the link below.
A hurricane watch is declared for an area when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours.
A hurricane warning is declared when hurricane conditions are expected in an area in 24 hours or less. Hurricane conditions include winds of 74 miles per hour or greater.
If a hurricane warning is in affect and safe evacuation from campus is not an option:
1. Move all furniture away from windows. Electrical appliances should be unplugged and off the floor, preferably in a closet.
2. All loose objects should be placed in drawers, file cabinets or closets.
3. Close all windows tightly, raise blinds and close all curtains or drapes.
4. Those students who reside in residence halls that have bathtubs should clean the tub and fill it half full with water. (The water in the tubs may be needed for washing and flushing toilets if the water supply is cut off.) Fill smaller containers with water for drinking purposes.
5. Anyone with a car should set the emergency brake and place the vehicle in park. Cars with manual transmission should be in lower gear or reverse.
6. Await instructions from Campus Police, your building coordinator, Residence Life staff, or other authorized personnel.
In the event of a hurricane:
1. Stay indoors until the storm is completely over. Do not leave your area or room until you are instructed to do so by Campus Police, your building coordinator, or other authorized personnel.
2. When instructed, quickly seek shelter in the lowest level of the building, preferably in an interior hallway or room.
3. During the peak of the storm, close doors and remain in hallways.
4. Stay away from windows, doors and other dangerous areas.
5. Power failure is likely to occur during a hurricane, therefore, do not attempt to use the elevators.
6. Do not attempt to open windows or doors.
7. Report all accidents, injuries, broken windows or excessive water to Campus Police at 803/323-3333 or to Residence Life staff.
8. Keep campus phone lines clear for emergency communications.
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