BYU-Idaho/Web-Content huggingface dataset:
Emergencies at BYU-Idaho | Emergencies | BYU-Idaho

# Emergencies at BYU-Idaho

This is a place to go in case of an emergency where you can get more information

## I-Prepare

A guide on how the BYU-Idaho community can prepare for and respond to campus emergencies.

Earthquakes

Idaho is a semi-active earthquake zone. Any action taken before, during, and immediately following an earthquake might mean the difference between life and death.

Fires

Fires can lead to property damage, personal injury, and loss of life. Learn how to respond to fires safely and effectively.

Threats

Follow these procedures in the case of bomb threats, online threats, riots, and assaults on campus.

Active Shooter

Students, faculty, and staff should know how to protect themselves if an active shooter is on campus.

Power Outages

Learn about procedures if there is a power outage or utility failure during a disaster.

Cardiac Arrest

An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) can save a person's life after their heart stops.

See Something Suspicious?

If you notice anything unusual or suspicious--whether it's a person, object, or behavior--report it immediately to BYU-Idaho Security.

Floods

Southeastern Idaho has experienced flood emergencies as recent as 2023. Please follow these procedures if you experience flooding.

Sexual Assault Emergency

Directions and resources if you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault.

Hazardous Substances

Hazardous substances create extremely dangerous situations if not handled correctly.

Physical Assault Emergency

Learn how to prevent physical assault and what to do if you are physically assaulted.

Storms

Severe stormy weather poses many threats that can affect travel, communication, and physical safety.

Sickness or Disease

Be aware of hygiene and health hazards and learn how to prevent illness.

Mental Health Emergencies

How to recognize mental health concerns and available campus resources. If you or someone you know is considering suicide or self-harm, help is available. You are not alone.

Emergency Phone Numbers

Security Office: 208-496-3000

Student Health Center: 208-496-9330

Rexburg Fire Dept: 208-359-3010

Madison Memorial Hospital: 208-359-6900

## Live Updates

Tweets by byuidaho
Active Shooter

## Safety Steps for an Active Shooter Situation

1. ****Run**** 
 1. Get out if you can. Always try to leave the area. Encourage others leave with you, but do not slow down your escape.
 2. Leave your belongings. Your life is first priority.
 3. Call 911 when you are safe. Give as much information you can, including address, description of the shooter, and number of people in the building.
2. ****Hide**** 
 1. If you can't get out of the building, secure your space. Use chairs, tables, desks, or other heavy objects to block entrances. Turn off lights and silence your cell phone. Keep as quiet as possible.
 2. Communicate with others in the area if you can. Let them know where you are in the building so help can find you.
 3. If unable to find a room or closet to hide, conceal yourself behind large objects.
3. ****Fight**** 
 1. Only fight an active shooter if your life is in danger.
 2. Whether alone or in a group, be prepared to fight.
 3. Act with aggression and use improvised weapons.
 4. Commit to your actions.
4. ****Look for Emergency Responders**** 
 1. When emergency responders arrive, remain calm.
 2. Keep your hands visible at all times.
 3. Avoid pointing or yelling.

## "Run. Hide. Fight"

Keep yourself and others out of harm's way during an active shooter situation. Your actions make a difference for overall safety and survival.

**Created by the City of Houston, Texas, this six-minute instructional video offers valuable guidance for an active shooter situation, though there is no guarantee of survival. BYU-Idaho purchased the rights to this video for student and employee use.**

RUN. HIDE. FIGHT.® Surviving an Active Shooter Event - English

## "Shots Fired--When Lightning Strikes"

Produced by the Center for Personal Protection and Safety, this 18-minute video will help you establish a survival mindset in an active shooter situation.

## Know the Signs Before Shots are Fired

Prevent an active shooter situation by being aware of suspicious people or activities around you. Seemingly small decisions can save lives.

Resources

Active Shooter Preparedness 
Campus Ready
AED Machines | Emergency | BYU-Idaho

## What is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency where the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating, preventing blood and oxygen flow to the brain and other organs. Cardiac arrest can result due to electrical injury, major blood loss, heart failure or a heart attack. If not treated immediately, cardiac arrest can lead to brain damage and death.

## Cardiac Arrest Symptoms

- Collapsing suddenly and/or loss of consciousness, falling to the ground and becoming unresponsive.
- Abnormal or irregular breathing, gasping for air, or no breathing altogether.
- No pulse or a very weak pulse.

## AED Locations

In the event of cardiac arrest, an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) can save a person's life by restarting their heart.

BYU-Idaho has AEDs located across campus, typically in central locations. Become familiar with the AED closest to you by visiting the online BYU-Idaho Public Campus Map.

## How to Use an AED

Each AED comes with a detailed instruction manual, and auditory directions. Simplified steps for responding if you see someone experiencing cardiac arrest are below:

1. Call 911.
2. Make sure the victim is unresponsive and there is no pulse before initiating chest compressions.
3. Locate an AED, turn it on and follow the voice prompts on how to attach the AED pads to the person who needs help.
4. Connect the pads to the device.
5. Clear the space around the person receiving help.
6. Administer shocks if necessary.
7. Follow any additional AED instructions and stay with the person until the paramedics arrive.
Emergency Notification Channels | Emergency | BYU-Idaho

# Emergency Notification Channels

Campus emergency notifications are sent to students and employees by email, mobile text, social media, web banners, and campus televisions.

## Emergency Communication Channels

In the event of an emergency, important information will be distributed in the ways listed below

Email

In the event of an on-campus emergency, an email will be distributed to current on-campus students and campus employees to their byui.edu email account. The email will include the nature of the emergency, the level of the emergency (color code) and instructions. It will also contain a link to emergency.byui.edu for more information.

Web Banners

Banners on the BYUI homepage will also be changed to give information regarding the emergency and threat level (color code). These will be updated regularly until the emergency has conclude.

Mobile Text

A mass text notification will be sent to on-campus students and employees containing the nature of the emergency whether or not immediate action is required and what that action is. Updates will also be sent through this medium.

Campus TVs

In the event of an on-campus emergency, TV screens on the BYU-Idaho Campus will be used to distribute information quickly.

Social Media

All posts on social media will point towards the emergency.byui.edu website. Our accounts will be updated regularly throughout the situation to reflect the status of the situation.
Fire Emergencies

## Be Prepared in Case of Fire

Prepare for Possible Fires by Learning the Location of:

- Alarms and fire extinguishers in the buildings you're in and how to use them. Read Fire Extinguisher Operation to learn how to operate a fire extinguisher.
- Exit routes of the buildings you frequent. Keep all exit routes free of obstructions during your activities.

If a Fire is Suspected or Discovered:

- Call 911. Never attempt to fight a fire alone. Give the operator as much information as possible, including the building name, room number, and other details about the fire's location.
- Activate a fire alarm. If there is no alarm, warn other occupants by knocking on doors and shouting a warning.

When Escaping a Fire:

- Find the nearest exit. Do not use elevators. If the nearest exit is blocked by fire, heat, or smoke, go to the next closest exit.
- Feel the door and doorknob before opening any doors. If either is hot, do not open the door.
- If heat or heavy smoke is present, close the door and stay in the room. If you are trapped, call 911 and give your location. Hang an object out of a window to attract attention.
- Stay down near the floor if there is smoke in your room or in the corridors.
- Close doors behind you as you exit the building to help keep the fire from spreading.

If Your Clothing Is on Fire:

- Stop, Drop, and Roll. Stop what you're doing, drop to the ground, and roll to smother out the flames. Flames can also be smothered with blankets or drenched with water.
- Seek medical attention for all burns and injuries.

Potential Fire Hazards at BYU-Idaho

Read Workplace Fire Hazards to learn about potential fire hazards in specific locations on campus.

## Fire Safety at Home

Cooking

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the United States, starting almost half of all fires. Never leave the stovetop unattended and turn off all appliances after you finish using them. 
 
Exercise caution when cooking or frying with oil or grease. Always keep clothing and other flammable materials away from flames.

Heating

Leave at least three feet of clearance around space heaters.

Candles

Be vigilant when using candles. Never leave an open flame unattended, and keep candles far from flammable items. Extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep. If renting, verify whether candles are approved in your housing contract.

Electrical safety

Check and replace electrical cords if they are damaged. Make sure electronics such as hairdryers and curling wands are turned off and unplugged when not in use.

Smoke Detectors

Check that your apartment has smoke detectors in every room where people sleep and outside each sleeping area.

Fire Extinguishers

Make sure your extinguisher is up-to-date and working properly. Your fire extinguisher may need recharging, especially if it's been used.

Be Aware of Building Safety

Look out for fire risks in the common areas of your building. Although you can't control what others do in their apartments, notify management if you spot anything that looks dangerous, such as missing fire extinguishers or smoke detectors that beep at random.
Floods | Emergency Communications | BYU-Idaho

## Before a Flood

Know your flood terminology:

- A ****Flood Watch**** is issued when conditions are favorable/possible for flooding.
- A ****Flood Warning**** is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
- A ****Flash Flood Watch**** is issued when conditions are favorable/possible for flash flooding. A flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas generally caused by heavy rain associated with severe thunderstorms.
- A ****Flash Flood Warning**** is issued when flash flooding is imminent or occurring.

If there is a Flood Watch in place, continue to listen for updates while attending school and work.

## During a Flood

- Follow directions from campus and local authorities.
- Move immediately to higher ground if you are in a low-lying area. If you have time and it's safe to do so, disconnect utilities and appliances.
- Do not go into any room where water covers electrical outlets or cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, leave immediately.
- Do not walk through flood waters. 
 - According to weather.gov, it only takes six inches (15 cm) of moving water to knock you off your feet.
 - Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, washed out road surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals, etc.
 - Floodwater also has the potential to carry dangerous containments like sewage. Especially avoid floodwater if you have an open wound or are at risk of being infected. Infections from contaminated floodwater are extremely dangerous.

## Driving and Floods

- Do not drive into flooded roadways or around barricades. A vehicle caught in swiftly moving water can be swept away in seconds. According to weather.gov, 12 inches (30 cm) of water can float a car or a small SUV and 18 inches (45.72 cm) of water can carry away large vehicles.
- Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
- Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. Get on the roof if water is rising inside the car.

## Types of floods

The types of floods most likely to affect Rexburg include flash floods, river floods, snowmelt, and dam breaks.

Related Links

CDC Flood Information 
Flood Safety 
Flooding Resources 
Disaster Sanitation
Hazardous Substance Emergencies | Emergency | BYU-Idaho

## Handle All Hazardous Substances with Care

No matter how comfortable you might feel handling hazardous substances inside or outside of the classroom, it's best to act with great care. If an accident or spill does occur, follow these guidelines.

## Chemical Spills

1. Report all chemical spills immediately to the Security Office (208-496-3000)
2. If a spill is life-threatening or presents a fire hazard, evacuate the area immediately; contact the Security Office (208-496-3000) or 911
3. Keep the area free of non-essential personnel
4. Do not allow smoking or an open flame near the chemical spill

## Fumes, Vapors, and Gas Leaks

If you detect a vapor, fume, or gas leak in your area and cannot determine the source, leave the area immediately. Post a "DO NOT ENTER" sign on the building and notify the Security Office (208-496-3000).

## Radioactive Spills

In the case of a radioactive spill, your first responsibility is to your own safety. Loss or damage to materials and equipment under emergency conditions is a secondary consideration. Take immediate measures to prevent contamination spread only if they can be completed safely.

1. Immediately evacuate a contaminated room or area
2. Seal off the room to prevent entry
3. Post a "DO NOT ENTER" sign on the entrance
4. Immediately notify the Security Office (208-496-3000), and the area supervisor
5. Do not begin decontamination procedures until the situation is evaluated by a radiological health officer. Only begin decontamination procedures if an accident involves contaminated wounds.

Related Links

Chemical Emergency Preparedness 
Chemical Safety
I-Prepare | Emergency | BYU-Idaho

# I-Prepare

## I-Prepare

Prepare and response procedures for BYU-Idaho campus emergencies.

Earthquakes

Idaho is a semi-active earthquake zone. Any action taken before, during, and immediately following an earthquake might mean the difference between life and death.

Fires

Fires can lead to property damage, personal injury, and loss of life. Learn how to respond to fires safely and effectively.

Threats

Follow these procedures in the case of bomb threats, online threats, riots, and assaults on campus.

Active Shooter

Students, faculty, and staff should know how to protect themselves if an active shooter is on campus.

Power Outages

Learn about procedures if there is a power outage or utility failure during a disaster.

Cardiac Arrest

An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) can save a person's life after their heart stops.

See Something Suspicious?

If you notice anything unusual or suspicious--whether it's a person, object, or behavior--report it immediately to BYU-Idaho Security.

Floods

Southeastern Idaho has experienced flood emergencies as recent as 2023. Please follow these procedures if you experience flooding.

Sexual Assault Emergency

Directions and resources if you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault.

Hazardous Substances

Hazardous substances create extremely dangerous situations if not handled correctly.

Physical Assault Emergency

Learn how to prevent physical assault and what to do if you are physically assaulted.

Storms

Severe stormy weather poses many threats that can affect travel, communication, and physical safety.

Sickness or Disease

Be aware of hygiene and health hazards and learn how to prevent illness.

Mental Health Emergencies

How to recognize mental health concerns and available campus resources. If you or someone you know is considering suicide or self-harm, help is available. You are not alone.
Physical Assault Emergency | BYU-Idaho

## Prepare to Prevent Physical Assault

Physical assault and robbery can cause physical or emotional injury and might leave a victim with trauma. To prevent assault be sensible, alert, and avoid situations that might harm your safety. If you are assaulted, the most important factor is to get out alive. Follow these procedures to assure your safety.

## What to Do if You are Assaulted or Robbed

1. Stay calm and relaxed--tell yourself it will be okay.
2. Cooperate. Give the person exactly what he or she asked for, nothing more.
3. Remember distinguishing traits:

- Color of clothing, hat or no hat, beard or mustache, race, approximate height, weight, and age.
- Notice the type of weapon used.
- Listen carefully to voice characteristics and to what is said.
- Note direction of travel or flight after the confrontation.
- Check vehicle type and license number is possible.

4. Get to safe place. Call someone you trust who can be with you. 
5. Notify the Security Office (208) 496-3000or dial 911 immediately.

## Resources

Prevent Robbery and Assault

Personal safety tips to avoid physical assault and robbery.

Guarding Against Robbery & Assault
Power Outage

## Power Outage Procedures

### Inside Buildings

1. Do not light matches or other flames inside buildings. Gas lines might be damaged and could ignite a fire or explosion.
2. If you are on campus, shut off gas and electricity in your assigned work area.
3. Do not use gas heaters or generators indoors. This will produce life-threatening carbon monoxide poisoning.
4. Leave one light on so you will know when the power is back on. Unplug all appliances to avoid a power surge when the power returns.
5. Close refrigerator doors to keep food cold. If necessary, use a cooler to stuff ice around perishable food.
6. If you are trapped in an elevator, do not panic. Personnel will arrive as soon as possible to assist you. Use the alarm in the elevator to alert others that you are trapped.

### Outdoor Safety

1. Avoid unnecessary travel, especially in a car. Traffic lights will likely not be functioning and roads will be congested.
2. Stay away from downed power lines and broken high-temperature waterlines.
3. Shut off gas and electricity in your assigned work areas.

### Contact Help

1. Report major problems to the Campus Electrical Shop. (208-496-2431)
2. Report safety concerns to the Security Office (208-496-3000)

Related Links

Power Outage Safety
See Something Suspicious? | Emergency | BYU-Idaho

## See Something, Say Something

Your safety is a top priority. Each of us plays a role in helping keep BYU-Idaho a safe and secure environment.

If you notice anything unusual or suspicious--whether it's a person, object, or behavior--report it immediately to BYU-Idaho Security. Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, don't hesitate to speak up.

****BYU-Idaho Security:**** 
(208) 496-3000 
Kimball 150

Examples of suspicious activity:

- Spoken or written threats, or implied threats
- Unusual or secretive behavior, such as fixating on people or buildings
- Security breaches, such as people entering restricted areas or testing security measures
- Weapons or destructive materials

For more information on recognizing suspicious activity, visit the national "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign.

If there is an emergency, call 911.

Learn more about the "See Something, Say Something" national campaign.
Sickness or Disease Emergencies | BYU-Idaho

## Danger of Disease

Disease and sickness can spread quickly in environments that foster interaction. Because of this, students are at risk of getting sick. The following guidelines will help prevent the spread of sickness and disease at BYU-Idaho.

## Hygiene Control

1. Wash your hands
2. Follow a healthy diet
3. Drink adequate fluids
4. Exercise often
5. Reduce stress
6. Get plenty of rest
7. Use hand sanitizer
8. Minimize physical contact with those who are sick

## Use Remedial Solutions

1. Stay up-to-date with immunizations
2. Receive vaccinations for flu seasons and other maladies
3. Use antibiotics and other remedies

## Serious Symptoms

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

1. Fever
2. Body aches
3. Headaches
4. Tiredness
5. Sore Throat
6. Cough
7. Runny nose
8. Vomiting
9. Diarrhea

## Contacts for Medical Treatment

Student Health Center

100 S Center Street 
Rexburg, ID 83448 
 
(208) 496-9330 
Student Health Center 
 
Open: Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm.

Madison Memorial Hospital

450 E Main Street 
Rexburg, ID 83448 
 
(208) 359-6900 
Madison Memorial Hospital 
 
Open: 24 hours

Related Links

CDC Flu Information 
Prevent Illness & Injury 
Flu Symptoms & Treatment
Threat Emergencies | I-Prepare

## Bomb Threats

Always be alert and report suspicious activity to the Security Office (208-496-3000).

## If You Receive a Threatening Call

1. Obtain as much information from the caller as possible.
2. Notify the Security Office.
3. Do NOT activate the building alarm system to evacuate.

## How to Recognize a Suspicious Package

A letter or parcel that is unexpected or unknown with any of the following characteristics:

- Foreign mail, air mail, and special delivery
- Restrictive markings such as Confidential or Personal, etc.
- Excessive postage
- Handwritten or poorly typed address
- Incorrect titles
- Titles but no names
- Misspellings of common words
- Oily stains or discolorations
- No return address
- Excessive weight
- Rigid envelope
- Lopsided or uneven envelope
- Protruding wires or tin foil
- Excessive securing materials such as masking tape or string
- Visual distractions

## What to Do with Suspicious Parcels

1. Contact the Security Office
2. Move people away from the area, but DO NOT activate the fire alarm system
3. DO NOT move or open the package
4. DO NOT investigate too closely
5. DO NOT cover or insulate the package

## If You are Asked to Evacuate

1. Check your work area for unfamiliar items. DO NOT touch suspicious items; report them to authorities on the scene
2. Take personal belongings with you, such as keys, bags, etc.
3. Leave doors and windows open; DO NOT turn light switches on or off
4. DO NOT make cell phone calls
5. Use stairs only; DO NOT use elevators
6. Move away from the building
7. DO NOT re-enter until authorization to do so is issued by the Security Office

## Online Threats

1. Online threats should be taken seriously and reported to correct authorities. If you receive or view a threat to damage or harm someone or something related to BYU-Idaho, report it immediately to the Security Office at 208-496-3000
2. Do not engage the individual who made or distributed the threat

## Riots

1. In case of a riot, leave the area immediately
2. Inform police and the Security Office
3. Stay away from the situation until it is resolved

## Sexual Assault

Related Links

Explosions