USDA Employee 

Emergency Response Guide 

USDA Headquarters 

Washington, D.C. 

March 2006 
i

Foreword 

The purpose of the Employee Emergency 

Response Guide is to provide an understandable 

and accessible reference for use in emergency 

situations in order to promote the safety of 

USDA Headquarters employees. This guide 

addresses some of the most common 

emergencies that employees in the Headquarters 

Complex may face on any given day. The guide 

relies on employees to use their better judgment 

to help identify emergency situations in and 

around the office. It is recommended that 

employees review the guide and become 

familiar with the layout in order to ensure faster, 

more reliable access to this emergency 

reference. 

This guide will be updated periodically as a 

result of lessons learned during drills or the 

receipt of new information. Please check back 

frequently. Lastly, this guide was prepared 

specifically for the USDA employees in the 

National Capital Region. However, its contents 

may be applied anywhere. 

There are personnel who are familiar with the 

Incident Management Handbook and the 

Occupant Emergency Plan and have a more indepth knowledge of the material outlined in this 

guide. Please address your questions, 

recommendations, and concerns to their 

supervisors or by e-mail to: 

preparedness@usda.gov.
ii 

Interactive Table of Contents 

Click on a title to go to the respective page, and click on the “Be Prepared” Icons to return to the table of contents. 

FOREWORD..............................................................................................................................................I

INTERACTIVE TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................... II

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS ................................................................................................ 1

ANY LOCATION........................................................................................................................................ 1 

USDA...................................................................................................................................................... 1 

FIRST RESPONDERS TO EMERGENCIES ....................................................................................... 2

HEADQUARTERS COMPLEX AND GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER CENTER ............................................. 2 

LEASED BUILDINGS ................................................................................................................................. 2 

INCIDENT COMMAND TEAM ............................................................................................................ 3

COMMUNICATIONS TOOLS............................................................................................................... 4

WHAT COMMUNICATIONS TOOLS ARE IN PLACE TO PROVIDE ME WITH UPDATED INFORMATION?............. 4 

EVACUATING THE BUILDING........................................................................................................... 5

WHAT DO I DO IF WE ARE TOLD TO EVACUATE THE BUILDING? ................................................................ 5 

HEADQUARTERS SHELTER-IN-PLACE GUIDE ............................................................................ 6

WHAT IS SHELTER-IN-PLACE? .................................................................................................................. 6 

OPTIONS................................................................................................................................................... 6 

WHY DO WE SHELTER IN PLACE?.............................................................................................................. 6 

DURATION ............................................................................................................................................... 6 

ACTIONS TO TAKE.................................................................................................................................... 6 

NOTIFICATIONS........................................................................................................................................ 7 

LEASED LOCATIONS................................................................................................................................. 8 

WHAT ELSE?............................................................................................................................................ 8 

GRAB AND GO KIT RECOMMENDATIONS.................................................................................. 11

RECOMMENDED PERSONAL EMERGENCY KIT ......................................................................................... 11 

FIRE EMERGENCY SITUATIONS.................................................................................................... 13

FIRE PREVENTION: ................................................................................................................................. 13 

WHAT DO I DO IF I NOTICE A FIRE?......................................................................................................... 13 

IF YOU BECOME TRAPPED IN A BUILDING DURING A FIRE:....................................................................... 13 

EXPLOSIONS......................................................................................................................................... 14

IF AN EXPLOSION OCCURS IN YOUR OFFICE: ........................................................................................... 14 

IF YOU ARE TRAPPED IN DEBRIS: ............................................................................................................ 14 

MEDICAL EMERGENCY SITUATIONS .......................................................................................... 15
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WHAT DO I DO IF A CO-WORKER BECOMES SERIOUSLY ILL? ................................................................... 15 

INFLUENZA........................................................................................................................................... 16

HOW TO RECOGNIZE INFLUENZA ............................................................................................................ 16 

PREVENTING THE FLU ............................................................................................................................ 16 

TREATING THE FLU ................................................................................................................................ 16 

OTHER POTENTIAL FORMS OF INFLUENZA............................................................................. 17

AVIAN INFLUENZA............................................................................................................................. 17

PANDEMIC INFLUENZA.................................................................................................................... 17

BIOLOGICAL HAZARD SITUATIONS ............................................................................................ 19

WHAT DO I DO IF I SUSPECT A BIOLOGICAL AGENT HAS BEEN RELEASED?.............................................. 19 

WHAT IF THE ROOM IS CONTAMINATED BY AEROSOLIZATION? .............................................................. 20 

CHEMICAL HAZARDS ....................................................................................................................... 21

HOW TO RECOGNIZE A CHEMICAL ATTACK............................................................................................. 21 

COURSE OF ACTION................................................................................................................................ 21 

TREATING CHEMICAL EXPOSURE............................................................................................................ 21 

USDA HEADQUARTERS COMPLEX SHOWER FACILITIES .................................................... 22

RADIOLOGICAL HAZARD SITUATION ........................................................................................ 23

POSSIBLE RADIOLOGICAL THREAT SITUATIONS:..................................................................................... 23 

WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF A DIRTY BOMB WERE DETONATED NEAR OUR OFFICES? ................................. 23 

HOW WILL I BE NOTIFIED OF A RADIOLOGICAL EMERGENCY? ................................................................ 23 

DEALING WITH A BOMB THREAT................................................................................................. 24

HOW CAN I IDENTIFY SUSPICIOUS PACKAGES AND LETTERS? ................................................................. 24 

WHAT DO I DO IF I RECEIVE A SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE?............................................................................ 24 

WHAT DO I DO IF I RECEIVE A THREAT VIA TELEPHONE?........................................................................ 24 

WHAT DO I DO IF I RECEIVE A THREAT VIA MAIL OR FAX?...................................................................... 25 

WHAT TO ASK WHEN A BOMB THREAT IS MADE...................................................................................... 25 

CIVIL DISTURBANCES....................................................................................................................... 27

PREVENTION OF CRIME IN YOUR OFFICE ................................................................................ 28

SEVERE WEATHER EMERGENCY SITUATIONS........................................................................ 29

WORKPLACE VIOLENCE.................................................................................................................. 30

WHAT IS WORKPLACE VIOLENCE?.......................................................................................................... 30 

WHOM DO I CONTACT? .......................................................................................................................... 30 

WHAT ELSE? .......................................................................................................................................... 30 

HOW DO I CONTACT FACILITIES PERSONNEL?........................................................................................ 33 

WHAT KINDS OF THINGS SHOULD I REPORT TO FACILITIES PERSONNEL? ................................................ 33 

WHAT TO REPORT.................................................................................................................................. 33 
iii 

OTHER FEDERAL AGENCY OPERATIONS CENTERS .............................................................. 34

AGENCY OPERATIONS CENTERS.................................................................................................. 34
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 1 

Emergency Contact Numbers 

Any Location 

Location Number 

Fire Any location 9-911 

Medical Emergency Any location 9-911 

Federal Protective Service Any location 202-708-1111 

TTY (301) 763-0126 

Employee Information Line Any location 800-932-1902 (recording) or 

202-690-3636 (recording) 

Call 711 to access voice relay (TTY) 

services. 

877-677-2369 (Operations Center) 

 

USDA 

Location Number 

 

Personnel and visitors using TTY should call 711 to access voice relay (TTY) services and provide the 

operator with the number you wish to contact. 

Employee Information Center: http://www.usda.gov/oo/beprepared

HQ Complex 6am - 6pm 202-720-6270 

202-720-8479 (TTY) 

HQ Complex 24 hour guard 202-690-0869 

202-720-8476 (TTY) 

Security 

GW Carver Center 301-504-2366 

301-504-2370 

HQ Complex 202-720-9522 

202-720-8480 (TTY) 

GW Carver Center 301-504-2398 

Health Unit 

Riverdale 301-734-8660 

Headquarters Complex 202-720-6859 

202-260-0386 (TTY) 

Facilities 

George Washington Carver 

Center 

301-504-2411 

301-504-2409 (TTY) 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 2 

First Responders to Emergencies 

Headquarters Complex and George 

Washington Carver Center 

At these government-owned buildings, the 

Office of Operations is the first responder to an 

emergency. Situations are handled from an 

Emergency Command Center (ECC) located in 

the subbasement of Wing 3. The structure for 

handling an emergency is based on the Incident 

Command System developed by the Forest 

Service. The chart for the different positions 

assumed during an emergency is on the 

following page. 

It is through this structure that Public Address 

(PA) System, Computer Emergency 

Notification System (CENS), ROAM Secure 

Alert, Channel 6, radio, and VoiceReach 

messages will be sent. The Office of Operations 

relies on both government employees (through 

the Occupancy Emergency Plan (OEP) 

structure) and contract employees to support the 

handling of the emergency. Contract employees 

(other than Security Officers) will wear red 

armband identifiers to assure employees that 

they are authorized OEP officials during a crisis. 

Leased Buildings 

Each building that houses government 

employees is required to have an OEP. These 

plans are available through your local facilities 

contact and are on the Employee Information 

web site. These buildings are leased through the 

General Services Administration (GSA) from 

private building owners. Discussions on 

emergency plans should be held regularly with 

the USDA tenants, the building management, 

and GSA. 

Should there be an emergency at a leased 

location, your facilities contact should notify 

the USDA Operations Center at 202-720-5711.
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 3 

Incident Command Team 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 4 

Communications Tools 

What communications tools are in place to 

provide me with updated information? 

The Office of Operations and the USDA 

Operations Center will be monitoring TV, radio, 

and other communications to keep on top of the 

emergency situation. 

Office of Operations personnel will provide 

regular updates on conditions and what 

additional actions you should take, such as 

continuing to shelter-in-place in the initial work 

areas, moving the shelter–in–place locations, or 

initiating an evacuation of the building, and 

giving the “All Clear” signal. Information will 

be communicated by a combination of the 

following: 

3⁄4 Public Address (PA) system 

3⁄4 Computer Emergency Notification 

System (CENS) 

3⁄4 USDA Channel 6 television 

3⁄4 Wardens 

3⁄4 Voice Reach/Message Reach 

3⁄4 ROAM Secure Alert 

3⁄4 USDA Employee Information Line 

3⁄4 Website 

http://www.usda.gov/oo/beprepared

Office of Operations personnel will 

communicate with each other to coordinate 

actions via two-way radios and will keep the 

Deputy Administrators for Management 

informed. 

The USDA Operations Center coordinates 

external communications with emergency 

responders via the Regional Information 

Communications and Coordination System 

(RICCS) and the Washington Warning System 

(WAWAS). 

Leased buildings have varying internal 

communications. Check with your supervisor to 

see what capabilities are in your building. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 5 

Evacuating the Building 

What do I do if we are told to evacuate the 

building? 

3⁄4 If an alarm sounds in your building, 

remain calm. There are a variety of 

communication tools that can be used to 

keep employees informed (PA systems, 

CENS, two-way radios, megaphones). 

However, if an alarm sounds, you must 

evacuate immediately. 

3⁄4 Follow all instructions given by first 

responders, supervisors, emergency 

wardens and other emergency personnel. 

3⁄4 Be aware of people with disabilities in 

your area who may require your 

assistance. Be prepared to help them. 

3⁄4 In the Complex buildings, there are red 

warden phones located by stairwells. 

These phones are for wardens and 

persons with disabilities only. Using 

this phone will give a direct call to the 

ECC, and you will be given further 

information specific to your location. 

3⁄4 DO NOT use elevators unless instructed 

to do so by emergency personnel. 

3⁄4 If the alarm sounds or if you are 

instructed to evacuate by other 

communications means, BEGIN TO 

EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY. If you 

are on a lower floor, it is critical that you 

evacuate immediately so that those on 

the upper floors are not caught in a 

backup in the stairwells as they descend 

to the lower floors. DO NOT 

ATTEMPT to go back up the stairs. 

3⁄4 Turn off your lights but leave your door 

unlocked. This will facilitate easy entry 

for sweeps by wardens and monitors and 

quick access for first responders if 

needed. 

3⁄4 Secure all classified material in an 

appropriate manner before leaving your 

work area. 

3⁄4 If it will not delay your exiting, take 

your coat if the weather is inclement. If 

you are at your work area, take your 

wallet/purse, and identification but leave 

briefcases, suitcases, etc. behind. If you 

are on a lower floor than your work area 

when the alarm to evacuate is given, do 

NOT go back up to get your personal 

things. 

3⁄4 Walk quickly and calmly to the nearest 

marked exit. Follow the instructions of 

the ERT monitors and wardens 

regarding alternate exit routes, should 

your normal pathway be blocked 

3⁄4 Exit the building and move directly to 

your organization’s assembly point. 

Your specific assembly point will be 

determined by your organization and the 

type of incident. 

3⁄4 Do not attempt to re-enter the building 

until told by the authorities that it is safe 

to do so. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 6 

Headquarters Shelter-in-Place 

Guide 

What is shelter-in-place? 

Shelter-in-Place is a protective action taken 

inside the building to protect you from external 

hazards, minimize your chance of injury, and/or 

provide the time to allow preparations for a safe 

evacuation. We will shelter-in-place when the 

Incident Commander deems that it is in your 

best interest to remain in a sheltered 

environment. We may also shelter-in-place 

when there is no immediate danger outside, but 

we are requested by other government entities to 

participate in a controlled dismissal to allow for 

an orderly movement out of the District of 

Columbia. 

Options 

3⁄4 Stay in your offices 

3⁄4 Move to an interior space - an office or 

corridor that is not part of the outside 

perimeter of the building 

3⁄4 Relocate to another part of the building -

- either horizontally or vertically 

Why do we shelter in place? 

1. Most likely scenarios 

3⁄4 Severe weather (tornado, hail, etc.) 

 

3⁄4 Civil unrest 

3⁄4 Accidental chemical release due to 

industrial/vehicle accident 

3⁄4 Controlled release of personnel for an 

orderly evacuation from the District of 

Columbia 

3⁄4 Upon request from other government 

agencies to allow for the movement of 

personnel from other parts of the city 

who are in danger even though the 

Headquarters Complex is not affected. 

2. Least likely scenario: Biological, chemical, 

or radiological attack 

Duration 

Shelter-in-Place at USDA 

Headquarters is anticipated to last 

only a few hours – 3 to 4. 

However, while the danger may 

pass in a few hours, the effect on 

the transportation system may prevent you from 

leaving the immediate area for several hours. 

Be patient. 

While we believe that most situations will be of 

SHORT DURATION, we also consider it 

prudent to plan for a longer period of time, and 

we recommend that you stock your Grab and Go 

Kit in preparation for the possibility of a stay of 

up to 12 hours. Planning for a longer duration 

will provide you with options if you are released 

from USDA but are not able to get home and 

have to stay with friends or at a motel. 

Actions to take 

What action will I be told to take if I am 

inside the building?

The specific action will be determined by the 

event. Follow the instructions that will be 

provided by the PA System, CENS, USDA 

Channel 6 TV, the wardens, your monitors, and 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 7 

your supervisory chain. General guidance 

follows: 

For flooding, severe congestion on the streets 

or Metro, or upon receipt of a request by 

authorities for USDA to shelter-in-place: 

Remain in your offices. 

For severe weather and civil unrest that pose 

a physical threat: 

Stay inside and, if directed, move away from 

windows to the inner corridors. Be sure to close 

all doors connecting exterior offices to the 

corridor. For extreme weather, such as a 

tornado, you may be advised to move to lower 

levels in the building. Take your Grab and Go 

Kit. 

For an external chemical, biological, or 

radiological incident: 

Stay inside and if next to a window, move to an 

inner corridor or office. Close your windows 

and turn off air conditioners and fans, including 

above door transom fans. Be sure to close all 

doors connecting exterior offices to the corridor, 

to reduce the transfer of contaminated air from 

the outside to the inside. 

Move to interior spaces, generally on a floor 

that is on the second floor or above. Why? 

Because most chemical agents, particularly 

those which may be used by terrorists, are 

heavier than air and tend to hug the ground. We 

suggest that all occupants explore their intended 

sheltering area and learn the quickest way up if 

you are using the stairwells. 

Elevator use will be restricted to persons with 

disabilities and/or health issues. These personnel 

should move to the second or third floor. We 

want to restrict the movement of elevators to 

any higher level, as they drag air up the shaft 

whenever they move. Elevators will normally be 

shut down to prevent any further movement 15 

minutes into the event. 

You should also be aware that conditions are 

likely to get uncomfortable, as the maintenance 

staff will immediately shut down the ventilation 

system to reduce the chance of contamination 

entering the building. The close quarters, heat, 

and stuffiness will add to your discomfort. 

Please remain calm, and assist those around you 

in coping with the situation. 

For an internal chemical, biological, or 

radiological incident:

Depending on the location and or severity of the 

event, you will most likely be told to 

immediately relocate to another safer portion of 

the building. Specific instructions on where to 

go and what areas to avoid will be provided via 

the communication methods outlined in 

previous sections. Do not automatically 

evacuate as you may be placing yourself in the 

path of the hazard. The developing situation will 

dictate further actions. 

Notifications 

How will I be informed that I need to shelterin-place? 

You will be notified immediately through both 

the Headquarters-wide PA system and CENS 

with specific instructions on the type of event 

and where employees should move. We will 

keep you updated throughout the situation as 

often as possible. 

We will also provide emergency information 

through USDA Channel 6 TV, the wardens, and 

security forces. Some persons with disabilities 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 8 

may also receive information through their 

Wyndtell pagers. 

A word of caution: Some news media serve as 

excellent sources of information on developing 

situations but some do not always have accurate 

data and jump to conclusions. What is being 

reported as factual for some part of town (a 

reporter at the Capitol may say the plume of 

toxic material has cleared and it is safe - it is for 

him) may not have the data on what is 

happening at the Headquarters Complex. 

Likewise, media may report on actions that 

other agencies are taking that may not be the 

best action for us, in our location. Acting on 

external news media may put you at risk - wait 

for word from USDA officials. 

The USDA Incident Commander operates from 

the USDA Operations Center with its 

contiguous Operations Watch Area, Security 

Control Center and ECC. These centers provide 

real-time, accurate data for decision-making and 

are linked to the Washington Alert System, the 

network of Federal Command Centers, and the 

Metropolitan Council of Government. 

Leased Locations 

The general guidance provided for the 

Headquarters Complex applies as well to USDA 

personnel in leased facilities. When informed of 

an event, move to those locations that offer a 

higher degree of safety within your facility. 

Coordinate with the other tenants. 

Currently, our primary system to keep you 

apprised of any threat will be CENS. If you are 

having difficulties with CENS at your location 

please check with your IT system administrator. 

We are also currently working on a number of 

initiatives, which will shortly be in place, to 

provide your facility with redundant notification 

of any emergency. These initiatives include 

extending the USDA Channel 6 TV to your 

common areas and providing key staff within 

your facility with a direct radio link to the 

Incident Command structure. We also have 

notification lists of key personnel in each 

facility that we can contact directly by phone in 

the event of an emergency. 

What Else? 

What action will I be told to take if I am outside 

the building? 

Immediately upon notification to shelter in 

place, Security will direct personnel outside the 

building to come inside. You will not be denied 

entry. Once all personnel in the immediate area 

are inside the building, security may post signs 

in the doors to direct late arrivals to another 

building or specific entrance where personnel 

may be sequestered to enable responders to 

attend to any signs of possible contamination. 

Where will visitors go? 

Upon notification to shelter-in-place, all 

employees should assess their immediate area, 

identify any visitors, and provide them 

assistance. Visitors include anyone not regularly 

assigned to USDA Headquarters including: 

other agency employees, dependents, 

contractors, and other visitors, etc. Once 

identified you need to direct the visitor(s) to the 

appropriate Shelter-in-Place location- take them 

with you. If the visitor(s) insist on leaving the 

building, escort them to the nearest Security 

Officer and allow Security to help them. 

What about the Child Development Center? 

The children in the Child Development Center 

(CDC) in the Yates building will be relocated to 

the second floor conference room. Please allow 

the system to work in caring for the children. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 9 

Parents are advised to not go to the CDC and 

pick up their children, since it will slow the 

relocation process. Further, moving through a 

potentially hazardous area may result in your 

picking up contamination and placing your child 

and others at risk. 

If I am told to Shelter-in-Place, do I have to 

stay? 

No. Shelter-in-place is a voluntary action, unless 

mandated by law enforcement or public health 

officials. Personnel who ask to leave the 

building before it has been determined safe to 

do so will be directed to the Security Office 

where they will be informed of any civil 

restrictions. If no restrictions are in place, 

personnel asking to leave will be escorted by 

Security to the authorized exit point. Remember 

that leaving may be put you at risk. The 

anticipated traffic jams and Metro congestion 

may prevent you from exiting the area 

expeditiously and could place you in a 

contaminated zone. 

Could legal authorities exercise a mandate to 

Shelter-in-Place? 

Yes. Federal Protective Service and law 

enforcement agencies can "detain" occupants 

within a police perimeter, and local health 

departments can quarantine and isolate 

occupants. 

If we have to Shelter-in-Place what will 

USDA Headquarters provide? 

USDA Headquarters will provide for your 

immediate shelter and security in a Shelter-inPlace event, but will not provide emergency 

food and water for all employees. The Office of 

Operations has a limited supply of life-support 

consumables to provide for visitors, persons in 

medical distress, occupants trapped in elevators, 

and personnel who cannot return to their offices 

if an emergency is declared. The prime 

responsibility for providing for your personal 

needs rests with you. 

You will be responsible for providing your own 

"Grab and Go Kit " with food, water, and 

prescription medications should you be directed 

to Shelter-in-Place. For more information on the 

Grab and Go Kit, please visit: 

http://www.usda.gov/oo/beprepared/Grabandgo

kit.htm

What can I do to ensure that I am prepared? 

While we cannot foresee every possible 

emergency, you can be prepared to meet most. 

We recommend that you and your family 

develop an emergency plan so you can be 

confident they are safe in the event of an 

emergency. If your family is safe, then you will 

feel more comfortable while sheltering-in-place 

and during your return home. For specific 

information on how to develop a family 

emergency plan and what emergency action 

plans your local authorities have in place, refer 

to our website: 

http://www.usda.gov/oo/beprepared

Shelter-in-Place Locker Locations in HQ 

Complex

The lockers are located at: 

South Building 

· Sub-basement -- 2 lockers. One in the hallway 

by S228 and one in the 3rd Wing stairwell TailHouse 

· 2nd Floor - 4 lockers. One each at elevator 

lobby's in the 3rd and 6th Wing Tail-House, and 

3rd and 5th Wing Head-House. 

· 5th Floor-- 4 lockers. One each at elevator
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 10 

Lobby's in the 3rd and 5th Wing Tail-House and 

3rd and 5th Wing Head-House. 

Yates Building 

· Basement - 1 locker 

· 3rd Floor - 1 locker 

· 5th Floor-- 1 locker 

Whitten Building 

· Basement-3 lockers. One each in A Section 

and W and E Wings 

· 2 floor - 1 locker in A Section 

· 3 floor-2 lockers. One each near the archways 

in E and W Wings 

Cotton Annex

· Basement-1 locker 

· 3rd floor-1 locker 

· 5th floor-1 locker 

Each locker contains:

· 1 Medical kit--assembled by our USDA 

medical staff 

· 8 Battery powered combination flashlight/radio 

with hand cranked generator 

· 10 Cases bottled water 

· 20 cases energy bars 

· 10 Folding floor mats 

· 20 Fleece blankets 

· 20 packets anti-bacterial moist wipes. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 11 

Grab and Go Kit 

Recommendations 

Recommended personal emergency kit 

3⁄4 Small tote bag, fanny pack, backpack, 

soft-sided briefcase or whatever holds 

the contents of your kit. It is 

recommended that you not use plastic 

bags or cardboard boxes to hold your 

emergency supplies since these can 

break open if dropped. 

3⁄4 Water – Prepackaged emergency water 

with 5-year shelf life or bottled water. 

One to two quarts should be sufficient 

since the anticipated event duration will 

be hours, not days. However, since you 

have no idea how long your return trip 

home could be, this amount may not be 

enough during the summer months. 

Another thing to remember is not to 

throw away your empties on the way 

home. You may need to refill them. If 

you are considering prepackaged water 

in pouches or boxes be sure to protect 

them. These packages can leak if not 

stored properly. 

3⁄4 Non-perishable foil wrapped food such 

as snack or high protein bars that are 

light and easy to carry. You can also 

buy prepackaged bars with a 5-year shelf 

life. These bars are high calorie and do 

not promote thirst. Regardless of what 

you choose, keeping them in plastic bags 

or containers helps to reduce the risk of 

rodent and insect intrusion. 

3⁄4 Three day supply of medicines - While 

everything else on this list is based on 

the short term, we recommend a 3-day 

supply of medications, just in case you 

cannot make it home and end up staying 

at a friend’s house or hotel. Ask your 

physician or pharmacist about storing 

prescription medications. Be sure they 

are stored to meet instructions on the 

label and be mindful of expiration dates. 

It would also be a good idea to have the 

pharmaceutical name written down 

inside your kit just in case you cannot 

remember the exact name or you need 

medical care. 

3⁄4 Small battery operated or solar radio - 

You may need to walk and not have any 

way of getting up-to-date information. 

3⁄4 Small flashlight. 

3⁄4 Extra batteries for your radio and 

flashlight. If possible buy a radio and 

flashlight that use the same size batteries 

so you only have to buy one size and can 

interchange if you have to. 

3⁄4 Light/glow stick (2) to pin to your 

clothes or carry in case you have to walk 

in the dark. 

3⁄4 Small knife or multi-tool - While you 

may not know how to use all the tools, it 

is a good bet someone else will. 

3⁄4 Personal toiletries, including toothbrush, 

non-water hand cleaner, eye drops, etc. – 

3⁄4 Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, 

socks, and hat for the season in case you 

have to walk. These items don’t need to 

be in your kit. 

3⁄4 N95 paper mask (2) – These masks are 

small, light weight and inexpensive. 

They provide added protection from 

particulate matter (dust) that may be 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 12 

generated in an explosion. 

3⁄4 A pen and small note/phone book with 

the phone numbers and e-mail addresses 

of your family, friends and neighbors. 

While many people carry cell phones 

and electronic note pads, a hard copy 

back up never hurts and can take a lot of 

abuse. 

3⁄4 Rain poncho 

3⁄4 Blanket 

3⁄4 Small first aid kit 

3⁄4 Area map 

3⁄4 Cash, $50, in small denominations to 

buy food and gas in case you are unable 

to use your credit or debit cards. Keep 

this on your person not in your kit. 

Remember, an emergency kit is only intended to 

meet basic needs, and you are the best judge of 

what your needs are. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 13 

Fire Emergency Situations 

Fire prevention: 

3⁄4 Know the location of fire exits and exit 

stairwells. Fire extinguishers are to be 

used only by persons properly trained in 

their use. 

3⁄4 Do not prop open fire doors or stairwell 

doors. Report fire and stairwell doors 

that do not close properly to your 

facilities staff. Report any exposed 

electrical wiring. 

What do I do if I notice a fire? 

IF YOU NOTICE A FIRE OR SITUATION 

THAT REQUIRES EVACUATION OF THE 

BUILDING:

1. Pull one of the manual fire alarms 

located strategically throughout every 

building. These manual stations 

automatically summon the fire 

department. In government-owned 

buildings, the GSA Mega center (708-

1111) also gets notified. 

2. Dial 9-911. Give the following 

information to the 911 operator. 

Street address: ____________________ 

Nearest cross street: ______________ 

Name of the building: ______________ 

Location of fire in the building: ______ 

Description of the situation: _________ 

3. Report any fire to the Security Control 

Center: 202-690-0869. 

4. Notify others in your area. 

5. Assist anyone who needs help 

evacuating. 

6. Proceed to your agency’s designated 

assembly areas. 

7. Proceed to the zone where personnel 

from your Division or Branch will 

congregate within the designated 

assembly areas. 

If you become trapped in a building during a 

fire: 

3⁄4 If you are on the ground floor and a 

window that opens is available, carefully 

climb out if you can do so safely. 

3⁄4 If there is no window, stay near the floor 

where the air will have less smoke. 

Shout at regular intervals to alert 

emergency crews of your location. 

3⁄4 If you are in a room with the door 

closed, feel the door. If the door is 

warm, do not open it. If smoke is 

entering the room through cracks around 

the door, stuff something in the cracks to 

slow the flow. 

3⁄4 If you are on an upper floor and cannot 

reach one of the stairwells, go to an 

office with a window, close the office 

door, go to the window and wave with 

something so emergency crews can see 

you. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 14 

Explosions 

If an explosion occurs in your office: 

3⁄4 Take shelter under your desk or a sturdy 

table to protect yourself from projectiles, 

the force of the blast, and falling debris. 

3⁄4 As soon as possible check for fires and 

other hazards then quickly and 

appropriately exit the building. 

3⁄4 DO NOT use the elevators. 

If you are trapped in debris: 

3⁄4 If possible, use a flashlight to signal your 

location to rescuers 

3⁄4 Avoid unnecessary movement so that 

you do not kick up dust. 

3⁄4 Use anything you have to cover your 

mouth. Dense weave cotton material is 

the best for creating a filter through 

which to breathe. 

3⁄4 Tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers 

can hear where you are. 

3⁄4 Use a whistle if one is available to signal 

rescuers. 

3⁄4 Shout only as a last resort as it can cause 

a person to inhale dangerous amounts of 

dust. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 15 

Medical Emergency Situations 

What do I do if a co-worker becomes 

seriously ill? 

In a serious Medical Emergency: 

1. Administer appropriate First Aid. In the 

case of serious injury, keep the victim 

warm and comfortable to prevent shock. 

Remember ABC: Airway, Bleeding, 

Circulation, when administering First 

Aid 

2. The Medical Staff is trained and 

equipped to handle most workplace 

health or accident emergencies and can 

be reached at the Health Unit: 720-9522 

3. Have someone dial 9-911 immediately. 

Give the following information to the 

911 Operator. 

Street:__________________ 

Address:________________ 

Nearest cross street:_______ 

Name of building:_________ 

Floor:___________________ 

Room:__________________ 

4. Have a co-worker call Security at 690-

0869. Give the floor, room number, and 

any special directions to the location so 

Security can direct the emergency 

response personnel to the person. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 16 

Influenza 

How to recognize influenza 

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused 

by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe 

illness, and at times can lead to death. The best 

way to prevent this illness is by getting a flu 

vaccination each fall. Symptoms include: 

3⁄4 fever (usually high) 

3⁄4 headache 

3⁄4 extreme tiredness 

3⁄4 dry cough 

3⁄4 sore throat 

3⁄4 runny or stuffy nose 

3⁄4 muscle aches 

3⁄4 gastric problems (nausea, vomiting, and 

diarrhea; less likely to occur in adults 

than children) 

Preventing the Flu 

3⁄4 Stay home when you are sick.

If possible, stay home from work, 

school, and errands when you are sick. 

You will help prevent others from 

catching your illness. 

3⁄4 Avoid close contact.

If you must go out avoid close contact 

with people who are sick. If you are sick, 

keep your distance from others to protect 

them from getting sick too. 

3⁄4 Cover your mouth and nose.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue 

when coughing or sneezing. It may 

prevent those around you from getting 

sick. 

3⁄4 Clean your hands.

Wash your hands often. This will help 

protect you from germs. 

3⁄4 Avoid touching your eyes, nose or 

mouth.

Germs are often spread when a person 

touches something that is contaminated 

with germs and then touches his or her 

eyes, nose, or mouth. 

Treating the Flu 

3⁄4 If you get the flu, get plenty of rest, 

drink a lot of liquids, and avoid using 

alcohol and tobacco. Hot liquids may 

relieve the feeling of congestion. Also, 

you can take medications such as 

acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol®) to 

relieve the fever and muscle aches 

associated with the flu. "Over the 

Counter" therapies, which do not require 

a prescription, may temporarily relieve 

flu symptoms, however, such therapies 

do not treat the virus that causes the flu. 

3⁄4 Because the flu is a viral infection, it 

cannot be treated with antibiotics. 

Antibiotics are medicines that kill 

bacteria and are, therefore, only useful 

for treating bacterial infections or 

complications from the flu such as 

pneumonia. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 17 

Other Potential Forms of 

Influenza 

Avian Influenza 

Avian influenza is an infection caused by avian 

(bird) influenza (flu) viruses. These flu viruses 

occur naturally among birds. Wild birds 

worldwide carry the viruses in their intestines, 

but usually do not get sick from them. However, 

avian influenza is very contagious among birds 

and can make some domesticated birds, 

including chickens, ducks, and turkeys, very 

sick and kill them. 

Influenza A (H5N1) virus – also called “H5N1 

virus” – is an influenza A virus subtype that 

occurs mainly in birds, is highly contagious 

among birds, and can be deadly to them. H5N1 

virus does not usually infect people, but 

infections with these viruses have occurred in 

humans. Most of these cases have resulted from 

people having direct or close contact with 

H5N1-infected poultry or H5N1-contaminated 

surfaces. There have been cases in which Avian 

influenza has been passed from birds to humans 

but the disease has not yet been transmitted 

from human to human. 

Pandemic Influenza

An influenza pandemic is a global outbreak of 

disease that occurs when a new influenza A 

virus appears or “emerges” in the human 

population, causes serious illness, and then 

spreads easily from person to person worldwide. 

Pandemics are different from seasonal outbreaks 

or “epidemics” of influenza. Seasonal outbreaks 

are caused by subtypes of influenza viruses that 

already circulate among people, whereas 

pandemic outbreaks are caused by new 

subtypes, by subtypes that have never circulated 

among people, or by subtypes that have not 

circulated among people for a long time. Past 

influenza pandemics have led to high levels of 

illness, death, social disruption, and economic 

loss. 

Influenza pandemics are different from many of 

the threats for which public health and healthcare systems are currently planning: 

3⁄4 A pandemic will last much longer 

than most public health emergencies 

and may include “waves” of 

influenza activity separated by 

months of inactivity (in 20th century 

pandemics, a second wave of 

influenza activity occurred 3-to-12 

months after the first wave). 

3⁄4 The numbers of health-care workers 

and first responders available to work 

can be expected to be reduced. They 

will be at high risk of illness through 

exposure in the community and in 

health-care settings, and some may 

have to miss work to care for ill 

family members. 

3⁄4 Resources in many locations could 

be limited, depending on the severity 

and spread of an influenza pandemic. 

Communicating Information to USDA 

Employees Regarding a Pandemic Influenza 

Outbreak 

Information will be communicated to employees 

via: 

3⁄4 Channel 6 – Slides and Informational 

Public Announcements 

3⁄4 Websites 

3⁄4 Posters 

3⁄4 Table Tents 

3⁄4 CENS 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 18 

3⁄4 All-Employee E-Mails 

3⁄4 Handouts – distributed at building 

entrances 

3⁄4 AGLEARN 

3⁄4 USDA News 

3⁄4 LED Message Boards 

* Information on this page and the preceding one has been taken from 

the CDC Website.
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 19 

Biological Hazard Situations 

What do I do if I suspect a biological agent 

has been released? 

What do I do if I open a letter and find it 

contains a powdery or other “suspicious” 

substance, or has a written statement that the 

item contains a harmful substance? 

3⁄4 Stop immediately. 

3⁄4 Do not shake, bump or empty the 

package. 

3⁄4 Put it down, and do not touch it. 

3⁄4 Gently cover it with any material that is 

handy. For example: paper towel, file 

folder, etc. 

3⁄4 Do not smell it, taste it, or try to analyze 

it. 

3⁄4 Isolate the immediate area where the 

item is located, and make sure that no 

one disturbs the item. First responders 

will handle any evacuations. 

3⁄4 Turn off air conditioners, heaters, and 

fans to prevent any potentially harmful 

substance from circulating. Close doors 

and windows in the room where the 

letter or package is located. 

3⁄4 Wash your hands with soap and cool 

water for 30-60 seconds, and then wash 

your face. Ensure that other persons 

who may have touched the letter or 

package do the same. 

3⁄4 Notify security. 

3⁄4 Do NOT allow anyone to leave who 

might have touched the item. If 

possible, make a list of persons who 

have touched it. 

3⁄4 Do NOT re-enter the area where the 

suspicious letter, envelope, or package is 

located. It is a potential crime scene, 

and it is critical that you do not disturb 

any evidence. Above all, remain calm, 

and wait for the arrival of emergency 

personnel. 

3⁄4 Give Security the list of persons who 

may have touched the item so that 

proper instructions can be given for 

medical follow-up. 

What do I do if I receive an envelope with 

powder, and powder spills on me or onto my 

work area? 

3⁄4 Do NOT try to clean up the powder. 

Cover the spilled contents immediately 

with anything (e.g., clothing, paper, trash 

can, etc.), and do not remove this cover. 

3⁄4 Leave the room and close the door, or 

section off the area to prevent others 

from entering. 

3⁄4 Wash your hands with soap and cool 

water to prevent spreading any powder 

to your face. 

3⁄4 Notify Security, and they will notify 

emergency personnel. 

3⁄4 When emergency personnel respond, 

they will provide guidance on 

decontamination. Some things that may 

direct you to do are: 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 20 

o Remove heavily contaminated 

clothing as soon as possible and 

place in a plastic bag, or some 

other container that can be 

sealed. 

o Shower with soap and cool 

water. Do not use bleach or 

other disinfectant on your skin. 

3⁄4 If possible, list all people who were in 

the room or area, especially those who 

had actual contact with the powder. 

Give this list to Security so that proper 

instructions can be given for medical 

follow-up. 

What if the room is contaminated by 

aerosolization? 

For example, a small device is activated that 

sprays a substance into the air; there is a 

warning that the air handling system is 

contaminated, or a warning that a biological 

agent was released in a public space: 

3⁄4 Turn off local fans or ventilation units in 

the area. 

3⁄4 Leave the immediate area and wait for 

assistance. 

3⁄4 Close the door, or section off the area to 

prevent others from entering. 

3⁄4 Notify Security. They will contact 

emergency personnel. 

3⁄4 Remove heavily contaminated clothing 

as soon as possible and place in a plastic 

bag or some other container that can be 

sealed. This clothing bag should be 

given to the emergency responders for 

proper handling. 

3⁄4 Shower with soap and cool water as 

soon as possible. Do not use bleach or 

other disinfectant on your skin. 

3⁄4 If possible, list all people who were in 

the room or area. Give this list to 

Security so that proper instructions can 

be given for medical follow-up.
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 21 

Chemical Hazards 

How to recognize a chemical attack 

A chemical attack is the deliberate release of a 

toxic gas, liquid or solid that can poison 

people and the environment. Watch for these 

signs: 

3⁄4 People with watery eyes, twitching, 

choking, and difficulty breathing. 

3⁄4 Numerous individuals experiencing 

unexplained water-like blisters, wheal 

(like bee stings), and/or rashes. 

3⁄4 Numerous surfaces in the area exhibit 

oily droplets/film or the presence of 

unexplained water surfaces (puddles) 

with oily film are present when there is 

no reason (rain). 

3⁄4 Unexplained odors in the area that 

resemble bitter almonds, peach kernels, 

or newly mown hay or green grass. 

3⁄4 Many sick or dead birds, insects, fish, or 

small animals. 

Course of action 

3⁄4 Try to determine the source of the 

affected area if possible. 

3⁄4 Evacuate the affected area. 

3⁄4 If the area is inside, try to evacuate the 

building without passing through the 

contaminated area. 

3⁄4 If you cannot get out of the building 

without passing through the 

contaminated area, move away from the 

area and “shelter-in-place.” 

3⁄4 If you are outside when you see signs of 

a chemical attack, either quickly get out 

of the area, or determine whether it 

would be better to go inside and 

“shelter-in-place.” 

Treating chemical exposure 

If your eyes are watering, your skin is stinging, 

you have trouble breathing, or you simply think 

you may have been exposed to a chemical: 

3⁄4 Immediately strip and wash; look for a 

fountain, hose, or any other source of 

water. You can use any one of the 

decontamination stations (see following 

page). 

3⁄4 Use soap and water if possible, but DO 

NOT SCRUB INTO YOUR SKIN. 

3⁄4 Request emergency medical attention at 

your location. Do not go to the Health 

Unit
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 22 

USDA HEADQUARTERS COMPLEX SHOWER FACILITIES 

Whitten Building 

Room 221E Ladies Room 

Room 221W Men’s Room 

South Building 

Room SM-12 ESRA Fitness Center Shower Facilities 

Room Hazardous waste accumulative area 

Room S0556 Print Plant 

Room S228 WASC Engineering Shop 

Cotton Annex 

Room 2nd Mezzanine Ladies’ Room 

Room 3rd Mezzanine Men’s Room 

Room Basement Battery Room 

Yates Building 

Room 0-10 Men’s Room-- Basement 

Room 0-11 Ladies Room—Basement 

Room 0-12 Chiller Room 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 23 

Radiological Hazard Situation 

Possible radiological threat situations: 

3⁄4 Dirty bomb 

3⁄4 Made by wrapping radioactive material 

around a core of ordinary high 

explosives and detonating it so that 

radioactive contamination spreads over 

the widest possible area. 

3⁄4 There are two hazards in a dirty bomb: 

o The bomb blast which presents 

the greatest danger 

o The radioactive particulate 

matter or debris that will be 

scattered by the bomb blast. 

Radioactive particulates from a 

dirty bomb may travel several 

blocks or even several miles. 

The extent and duration will be 

determined by the wind speed 

and direction. 

3⁄4 Nuclear power plant accident or release 

3⁄4 Release of radioactive material 

What would happen if a dirty bomb were 

detonated near our offices? 

People in the blast area would be injured by the 

debris and would be exposed to radiation 

through contact with and inhalation of the dust 

and debris. If the building is intact, we may 

have the option to shelter in place for a limited 

amount of time or to evacuate. 

The concept of sheltering-in-place is to provide 

some measure of safety from the time an 

emergency occurs until there is sufficient 

reliable information about the emergency such 

as: is it a bomb, dirty bomb, or etc.? Where did 

it occur? What is the wind direction? What 

type of radiological material was involved? 

Once sufficient information is received, a 

decision will be made on the actions to take. 

The type of emergency will determine the 

length of time we shelter in place. 

How will I be notified of a radiological 

emergency? 

3⁄4 Notification can occur in a numbers of 

ways – PA system, CENS broadcast 

message, local emergency management 

personnel, local radio and/or television 

Emergency Alert System, National 

Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio, 

and on - the - scene police officers. 

3⁄4 The notification will be accompanied by 

instructions on what steps you should 

take, for example, whether to shelter in 

place or to evacuate. 

3⁄4 It is likely that there will be a period of 

uncertainty immediately after the event 

occurs. There may be a delay of several 

hours before officials can determine the 

exact nature of the emergency and 

whether radiological materials were 

involved. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 24 

Dealing With a Bomb Threat 

How can I identify suspicious packages and 

letters? 

Some characteristics of suspicious packages 

and letters include the following: 

3⁄4 Excessive postage 

3⁄4 Handwritten or poorly typed addresses 

3⁄4 Incorrect titles 

3⁄4 Title, but no name 

3⁄4 Misspellings of common words 

3⁄4 Oily stains, discolorations or odor 

3⁄4 No return address 

3⁄4 Excessive weight 

3⁄4 Lopsided or uneven envelope 

3⁄4 Protruding wires or aluminum foil 

3⁄4 Excessive security material such as 

masking tape, string -etc 

3⁄4 Visual distractions 

3⁄4 Ticking sound 

3⁄4 Marked with restrictive endorsements, 

such as “Personal” or “Confidential” 

3⁄4 Shows a city or state in the postmark that 

does not match the return address. 

What do I do if I receive a suspicious 

package? 

Upon seeing a suspicious package or device 

that resembles a bomb the individual should: 

3⁄4 Not open, touch, or otherwise handle the 

suspicious item or anything else not their 

own. 

3⁄4 Immediately warn those in close 

proximity and vacate the area. (Evacuate 

the area horizontally to move away as 

rapidly as possible and towards the 

designated safe zone.) 

3⁄4 Call the USDA Security Control Center 

via land line (do not use cell phone or 

radio). 

3⁄4 Return to your place of work once the 

area has been determined to be safe. 

NO ONE EXCEPT TRAINED BOMB 

DISPOSAL PERSONNEL SHOULD 

ATTEMPT TO EXAMINE OR MOVE A 

SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE OR SUSPECTED 

BOMB. 

What do I do if I receive a threat via 

telephone? 

Any individual receiving a threat via 

telephone should attempt to: 

3⁄4 Record the call if such capability is 

available 

3⁄4 Make notes of the call using the 

checklist on the following page. 

3⁄4 At the conclusion of the call, press the 

switch hook (hang up) for only a few 

seconds, then release the switch hook 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 25 

(pick up the receiver again). 

3⁄4 On the same line that the call came in 

on, perform the following: 

If you have a multi-button phone, 

press the line button for the same line 

that received the threatening call.

If your agency/location is served by a 

key system behind WITS2001, you must 

seize the same line, which received the 

threatening call by first pressing the 

RECALL button; then dialing the 

appropriate call trace code. List for a 

dial tone. 

Dial the special Call Trace code for 

your telephone system 

(DO NOT DIAL 9 FIRST) 

Touch Tone: *57 or Rotary: 1157 

3⁄4 Listen to the confirmation 

announcement, which should advise you 

that an automatic line trace has been 

activated in WITS2001 and should direct 

you to contact the Federal Protective 

Service (FPS) immediately on 202-708-

1111. 

DO NOT DIAL 9 FIRST 

3⁄4 Hang up the phone. Write down the time 

and date that you initiated the call trace. 

3⁄4 Call the USDA Security Control Center 

on another telephone. 

What do I do if I receive a threat via mail or 

fax? 

Any individual receiving a threat via the mail 

or fax should attempt to: 

3⁄4 Preserve the item, including any 

wrappings/envelopes, so they may be 

examined in depth by proper law 

enforcement entities. 

3⁄4 Minimize the handling of any document 

to reduce contamination (additional 

fingerprints, coffee stains, etc.). 

3⁄4 Call the USDA Security Control Center. 

What to ask when a bomb threat is made 

Get the responses to these questions recorded 

as accurately as possible! 

When is the bomb going to explode or chemical 

set to release? 

Where is it right now? 

What does it look like? 

What kind of bomb or chemical agent is it? 

What will cause it to explode or release? 

Did you place the bomb or chemical agent 

yourself? 

Why? 

What is your name? 

What is your address? 

Sex of Caller______________________ 

Approximate Age__________________ 

Race____________________________ 

Length of call_____________________ 

Note the Caller’s voice: 

Calm 

Laughing 

Lisp 

Disguised 

Angry 

Crying 

Raspy 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 26 

Accent 

Excited 

Normal 

Deep 

Slow 

Distinct 

Ragged 

Rapid 

Slurred 

Familiar 

Soft 

Nasal 

Loud 

Stutter 

Deep breathing 

Clearing throat 

Background Noise 

Local 

Street noises 

Music 

Factory 

Machinery 

Voices 

Long distance 

Motor 

Office 

House noises 

Clear 

Animal noises 

Static 

PA system 

Threat Language 

Foul 

Well-spoken 

Incoherent 

Irrational 

Taped 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 27 

Civil Disturbances 

Politically motivated groups may demonstrate in 

areas adjacent to USDA facilities and possibly 

attempt to illegally gain entrance to or disrupt 

normal operations of the facility by preventing 

employees from entering the building. 

In General: 

3⁄4 Stay in your assigned area. 

3⁄4 Do not go to the scene of a 

demonstration, if avoidable. 

3⁄4 Whenever you observe a demonstration 

or civil disturbance in or around your 

facility, contact the USDA Security 

Control Center on 690-0869 or 720-8476 

TDD. 

3⁄4 Do not confront or antagonize 

demonstrators. 

3⁄4 You will be notified if there is a need to 

evacuate or shelter-in-place, otherwise, 

stay in your area. 

If you are outside: 

3⁄4 Seek unobstructed facility entrances, 

even if required to walk around to the 

other side of the building. 

3⁄4 Be prepared to present identification 

3⁄4 Seek a location away from the 

demonstration site to call your office and 

obtain instructions if you are unable to 

gain entrance into the building. 

If you are inside: 

3⁄4 Close blinds/curtains in areas where 

demonstrators are visible. 

3⁄4 If possible, avoid areas with doors and 

windows leading to the exterior of the 

facility where demonstrators are present. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 28 

Prevention of Crime in Your 

Office 

1. Always lock your doors when your 

office is unoccupied or if you are 

working late and are alone. Please note 

that during an emergency evacuation, 

you are requested to leave your door 

unlocked to allow first responders access 

to your area.

2. Keep purses and valuables locked up and 

out of sight.

3. If you remove your suit coat, always 

transfer your valuables to your trouser 

pockets.

4. Do not hang coats, hats, purses, etc., 

near the entrance to your office.

5. Secure all small office equipment when 

not in use.

6. Ask persons entering your office if you 

may help them. This discourages 

individuals who wander.

7. Watch your fellow employees’ property.

8. Wear your USDA identification at all 

times.

If you observe someone committing a crime, DO 

NOT attempt to apprehend or detain the 

suspect. Try to memorize the physical 

appearance of the suspect and call the USDA 

Security Control Center 202-690-0869/202-720-

8476.
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 29 

Severe Weather Emergency 

Situations 

When severe weather threatens your building 

all personnel need to: 

3⁄4 Remain calm. 

3⁄4 Close all windows. 

3⁄4 Close, but do not lock office doors. 

3⁄4 Move quickly to the lowest floor of your 

building possible and stay away from 

outside walls, windows, and large rooms 

such as auditoriums and theaters. 

3⁄4 If available, basement levels offer the 

best protection from the destructive 

winds of a major storm, tornado or 

hurricane. 

3⁄4 In case of flying debris, get under a 

piece of sturdy furniture such as a 

workbench or heavy table or desk and 

hold on to it. If unavailable, use arms to 

protect head and neck. 

3⁄4 No employees should leave the building 

during a severe weather emergency 

unless for dire emergency. 

3⁄4 Use stairways when moving to other 

areas. Elevators are reserved for persons 

with special needs. 

3⁄4 Follow instructions. Instructions will be 

provided through the CENS and PA 

systems, and through emergency 

response personnel and agencies. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 30 

Workplace Violence 

What is workplace violence? 

There are many forms that workplace violence 

can take: 

3⁄4 Suicide threats 

3⁄4 Threats to injure, or the injury of 

property or persons 

3⁄4 Fistfights 

3⁄4 Shootings 

3⁄4 Stabbings 

3⁄4 Sexual assaults 

3⁄4 Unauthorized use of deadly weapons or 

explosives 

Whom do I contact? 

The first line of action lies with the supervisors 

of the persons involved in the situation, but 

ALL acts of violence are to be reported to 

Security at: 

3⁄4 Protective Operations 

(6am-6pm M-F) 202-720-6270 

3⁄4 TTY Line 202-720-8476 

3⁄4 Security Control Center 

 (24hrs/7 days) 202-690-0869 

3⁄4 General Services Administration/FPS 

(24hrs/7 days) 202-708-1111 

What else? 

3⁄4 Do not attempt to disarm any individual 

with a weapon. 

3⁄4 Assist anyone who is injured. 

3⁄4 Evacuate personnel away from the 

scene. 

Allow security to contain the incident and 

secure the area. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 31 

Emergency Evacuation 

Suggestions for Individuals with 

Disabilities 

What should I do to prepare myself for an 

emergency situation? 

3⁄4 Meet with your Agency or Branch 

Safety Officer to discuss specific issues 

related to your disability and emergency 

evacuation procedures. If you do not 

know who your Agency or Branch 

Safety Officer is please ask your 

supervisor or co-workers or contact Jerry 

Bowen at (202)720-0426. 

3⁄4 Review your building Occupant 

Emergency Plan (OEP) with your Safety 

Officer. For copies of the Washington, 

D.C. metro area occupant emergency 

plans, go to 

http://www.usda.gov/oo/beprepared/OE

Pplans.htm

3⁄4 Know where the nearest exit, fire alarm 

manual station and fire extinguisher are 

located. 

3⁄4 If you have a cell phone or pager, keep it 

with you as often as possible. 

3⁄4 All employees should be encouraged to 

disclose any special needs that might 

arise in the event of an extreme 

emergency. Be assured that this 

information will be treated as 

confidential and shared only on a strictly 

"need to know" basis. 

If I have a vision disability? 

3⁄4 Listen to directions given over the public 

address system. 

3⁄4 People who are blind or visually 

impaired need to know an evacuation 

route in time of emergency. It is good to 

learn at least one alternate route, just in 

case. 

3⁄4 If the "buddy" system is used, the buddy 

should be someone familiar with the 

person with a disability, specifically 

knowing how to provide guiding 

assistance and they should be familiar 

with the guide dog or other service 

animal. Additionally, back-up buddies 

should be recruited and trained. 

3⁄4 "Buddies" should go to the agreed 

meeting place to look for the employee 

with a disability. If the employee is not 

found, the buddy should then 

immediately vacate the building. If you 

need assistance please look for either a 

hall monitor, floor warden, or ask for 

help via the Warden Phone. 

3⁄4 Twice a year, it is good to practice 

leaving the building by at least one of 

the emergency evacuation routes. This 

improves familiarity of the evacuation 

procedures and routes for the employee, 

their service animals and the buddy(s). 

3⁄4 Service animals: If the alarm is sounded, 

employees with service animals should 

always leave the building - if they don't, 

their service animals will learn to 

disregard the alarms. Additionally, never 

let go of your service animal. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 32 

If I have a hearing disability? 

3⁄4 Employees who are deaf or hard of 

hearing have three options available: (1) 

have a strobe light mounted in their 

work area; (2) use the USDA supplied 

pagers (headquarters only) for early 

notification; or (3) develop a buddy 

system. 

3⁄4 If the employee is leaving their assigned 

work area for an extended time, i.e., for 

training or conference/meeting 

attendance, a temporary buddy should be 

established. 

If I have a mobility disability? 

3⁄4 The Department has recently updated the 

Warden-Phone System within the four 

HQ complex buildings. On floors 2 

through 6, at head house and tail house 

locations in each wing, there is a red 

telephone that is directly linked to the 

Emergency Command Center (ECC). 

Employees with mobility impairments 

should use these phones to contact ECC 

to determine if they should implement a 

horizontal evacuation to a designated 

safe area, use alternative evacuation 

routes, or use the Evacu-track chairs to 

leave the building. 

3⁄4 Evacu-track chairs are available, upon 

request from the Office of Operations 

Safety Officer (202-720-6808), to 

wheelchair users and persons with 

mobility impairments. If during an 

emergency team members cannot 

immediately locate the affected 

employee, they should evacuate the 

building. NOTE: Evacu-track chairs are 

slow and can be dangerous if used by 

individuals who are not trained in their 

use. Training on Evacu-Track chairs 

should be conducted with each team 

member at least twice per year. 

3⁄4 In the event of an extreme emergency, 

employees using wheelchairs and 

scooters should consider alternative 

evacuations, including being picked-up 

and carried out of the building. When 

circumstances necessitate separating the 

user and the wheelchair, keep the period 

of separation to a minimum. Sufficient 

helpers to carry both the user and the 

wheelchair/scooter must be available to 

use this procedure. When more than one 

flight of stairs is traversed, helpers may 

need to switch positions since one 

person may be doing most of the lifting. 

Switch positions only on a level landing 

area. When the lifting is complete, 

follow the instructions of the wheelchair 

user and restore the manual or motorized 

wheelchair to full operation; then assist 

the user to a safe area. 

If I have a mental/cognitive disability? 

3⁄4 Review evacuation plans with your 

Agency or Branch Safety Officer. 

3⁄4 Ask the safety monitors or members of 

the Emergency Team for assistance. 

3⁄4 Regularly review your evacuation plans 

with your buddy(s) and supervisor. 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 33 

Contacting Facilities Personnel 

How do I contact Facilities Personnel? 

3⁄4 USDA Headquarters Complex Facilities 

number: (202) 720-6858 

3⁄4 George Washington Carver Center 

Facilities Number: (301) 504-2411 

What kinds of things should I report to 

facilities personnel? 

In addition to basic housekeeping requests, 

report the following: 

3⁄4 Utility failure 

3⁄4 Burning smell 

3⁄4 Plumbing failure, flooding, water leak 

3⁄4 Spill of unknown material 

3⁄4 Please do not try to fix or clean up these 

things. Trained responders will address 

any and all of these problems. 

What to Report 

3⁄4 Identify yourself and give the location 

and phone number from where you are 

calling. 

3⁄4 Identify the room/area that is involved in 

the emergency. 

3⁄4 Identify the nature of the emergency and 

what assistance is needed. 

3⁄4 Indicate if any flammable, corrosive, 

explosive, and/or toxic products are 

involved 

3⁄4 Identify any pertinent characteristics of 

equipment involved. 

3⁄4 Describe any actions already taken 
 USDA Employee Emergency Response Guide 34 

Other Federal Agency Operations Centers 

If you are in a Federal Building other than USDA please consult the list below for the telephone number 

of that Department’s Operations Center. 

AGENCY OPERATIONS CENTERS 

AGENCY ACTIVITY PHONE HOURS 

USDA HQ USDA Operations Center (OC) 

opscenter@usda.gov 

202-720-5711 24/7 

CDC Center For Disease Control & Prevention 770-488-7100 24/7 

DOD 

Directorate of Military Support (DOMS) Crisis 

Response Center 

Secondary Number Army Watch Office 

703-695-2679 

703-697-0218 24/7 

DOE Dept of Energy- Operations Center 202-586-8100 24/7 

DOI Dept of Interior - Watch Office 

Doi_Watch_Center@Ios.Doi.Gov

202-208-4108 

877-246-1373 24/7 

DOJ/FBI Dept of Justice/ Fed Bureau of InvestigationStrategic Information Ops Center (SIOC) 202-323-3620 24/7 

DOT Dept of Transportation - 24-Hour Contact 

Number 

202-366-1863 24/7 

USCG US Coast Guard Command Center 202-267-2100 24/7 

NRC National Response Center 800-424-8802 24/7 

EPA Environmental Protection Agency -OC 

Eoc.Epahq@Epa.Gov 202-564-3850 7-7/7 

FEMA Federal Emergency Management AgencyFEMA Operations Center (FOC) 

Fema.Operations.Center@Fema.Gov 

800-634-7084 24/7 

FPS Federal Protective Service 202-208-1111 

HHS Dept of Health and Human Services -

Information Center War Room 202-358-2413 24/7 

NCS 

National Communications System -Watch 

Office 

Ncs@Ncs.Gov

703-607-4950 24/7 

NRC Nuclear Regulatory Commission Ops Center 301-816-5100 24/7 

USCS US Customs Service - Situation Room 202-927-0524 24/7 

USPS US Postal Service -24-Hour Contact Number 202-268-2000 24/7 

VA Dept of Veterans Affairs -Readiness Operations 

Center 202-273-5510 24/7