Hostage Crisis

Excerpts from COD Emergency Response Plan

College Staff Response

It is possible that students, faculty or staff could be either in close proximity to, or drawn into a hostage crisis. The ability to act appropriately will be of extreme importance in the safety of students and others. Immediately refer to the Faculty and Staff Emergency Response Handbook located in the room for response help.

In close proximity:

All students and faculty/staff who are on site, but not in imminent danger, should shelter in place (quietly remain where they are). Close and secure doors where possible, stay away from doors and windows and wait for further instruction from police officials. If a telephone is available, communicate all known information to the Public Safety Police Department at extension 2000. This information would include your name, the number of individuals at your location, your location, your ability to secure your location and any information known about the offenders.

Personally involved in a hostage crisis:

Your actions during a crisis will enhance your chances of survival. As a hostage, follow the guidelines below:

Obey Hostage Taker’s orders; do not become antagonistic or confrontational.
Be courteous and polite.
Do not debate, argue or discuss political issues terrorists or other hostages.
Talk in a normal voice. Avoid whispering or raising your voice.
Avoid abrupt movements. Keep movement to a minimum and in view.
Locate students and yourself as far away from window, doors and the terrorists as possible.
Answer all questions unless your answer may pose a threat to the terrorist’s ideology.
Inform captors of any medical conditions or special disabilities of hostages.
Do not discuss possible actions to be taken by police or other agencies.
Stay calm and if there is a law enforcement person in the room, DO NOT point them out to anyone.

TRY TO INFORM POLICE AT EXTENTION 2000 OR DIAL 911,

BUT NOT AT THE RISK OF LIVES.

TIME AND CALMNESS ARE YOUR GREATEST ALLIES!

Police Response

Patrol officer response to safe location in attempt to verify incident.
Communicate with faculty/staff to determine and assess exact situation.
Isolate hostage crisis area and establish inner perimeter.
Initiate mutual aid request.
Establish building exterior perimeter.
Establish command post and communications coordination.
Assess and obtained needed resources.
Assess need for counseling assistance.
Maintain high alert status until crisis is resolved.
Upon conclusion, conduct follow up investigation.
Initiate post-crisis victim/family assistance.

Fire Department Response

Maintain presence at police command post and respond to render emergency medical services to the injured as soon as possible.
Coordinate with Hospitals for transportation and care of the injured.
Maintain presence during incident for any fire fighting needs.