Tornado/Severe Weather

Excerpts from COD Emergency Response Plan

College Staff Response

Among the more common forms of severe weather in our area are thunder storms, hail and tornadoes. The safest place to be during any of these storms is inside a secure structure as most damage occurs as a result of broken glass and flying debris. All classrooms and offices at the college have tornado shelter maps posted, advising of safe places within the college to seek shelter during a tornado. If you find yourself in a storm, proceed with the following guidelines.

Once a warning is issued, remain calm. It may be necessary to move to a place of safety. Lead your students/employees following directions posted in the room for Tornado Evacuation. Stay indoors, away from windows, glass outside doors and large unsupported ceilings. Account for everyone in your room.

If outside, take shelter inside the nearest building.

Seek hallways or rooms without windows. If time allows, move to lower building levels.

Wait until storm passes and "All Clear" message is issued. After the storm has passed, in Glen Ellyn call the Public Safety Police at ext. 2000; other locations Dial “911” for police, to report any injuries or damage to buildings.

In the aftermath of severe weather, if the building is severely damaged, evacuate the building as soon as possible.

With any notification to “Evacuate the Building”, it is important to move sufficiently far away from the building to prevent any injury should an interior explosion occur.

Police Response

Initiate department severe weather warning plan.
Provide aid to any injured.
Assess damage.
Determine need for additional emergency services.
Secure college property.
Contact engineering to coordinate utility shut-offs or needs.
Assess need for counseling assistance.
Issue "All Clear" message when danger has passed.

Fire Department Response

Coordinate with police for care and transportation of injured.
Verify utility shut off, if necessary.
Conduct search and rescue/fire suppression as needed.
Assess damage and structural integrity of Buildings.