Emergency Situations

Emergency Notification

When there is a significant emergency or extremely dangerous situation that has been confirmed by the Canton Police Department, Malone Police / Security or Student Development, the University will initiate necessary emergency notification protocols. 

Depending on the particular situation, upon confirmation by one or more members of the Campus Emergency Response Team (Security Department, Student Development, Residence Life, Human Resources, Information Technology, Physical Plant and University Relations), a mass notification message will be sent by any or all of the following means: 911 Shield, emails, Facebook and Twitter. The Emergency Response Team will post updates during any critical incident.

Building Evacuations

Building evacuations will occur when a fire alarm is activated or when notified by Campus Security. When the alarm is activated or you are told to evacuate, leave via the nearest marked exit and alert others to do so. In case of a fire, do not use elevators. Assist those who are handicapped or disabled in exiting the building. Once outside, stay far enough away from the building to allow emergency personnel and vehicles access to the building. This includes keeping walkways, fire hydrants, and fire lanes clear. Do not return to the building unless told to do so by a University official. 

Campus Evacuations 

If an evacuation is needed for all or part of the campus, a 911 Shield Alert will be sent out by the Campus Emergency Response Team or Security Department. All persons will be told to vacate the area in question and proceed to another part of the campus. In the event of a prolonged evacuation, you will be instructed where to go for temporary shelter on campus or another appropriate site. For those without vehicles, transportation will be provided by the University.

Emergency Response 

The unpredictable nature of developing crises requires a wide range of human responses; even the best planning cannot prevent an element of chaos as a dynamic situation unfolds. Our goal is to be as ready as possible by educating our people, and by having in place the supplies and training that will provide a flexible framework. 

Severe Weather 

In the event of severe weather:

• Remain indoors out of the elements.
• Faculty, staff and students will be alerted by 911 Shield or runner if it becomes necessary to evacuate or remain in place for an extended period of time. Local radio and television media will also announce updates.
• Go to the Malone.edu web site homepage, if possible for announcements and updates. 

Fire Emergency 

Accidental fires can occur unexpectedly, the proper response is necessary to quickly and safely control and eliminate the flames. In the event of fire remember the following: 

• If door is HOT, stay in room or exit through a window if possible.
• If door is COOL, open slightly to check for smoke.
• If you see SMOKE, stay in room and use towels, etc. to cover openings.
• If no smoke, close door behind you and go to assembly area.
• Pull alarm en route. 

Bomb Threat 

Although a bomb threat is unlikely, it is necessary to plan for such an eventuality. Bomb threats rarely involve real explosives but must be taken seriously at all times. Immediately contact Malone Security at 330-471-8111 or the police at 911.

Armed Intruder 

Options to Consider: 

• Run (Evade): Escape away from sounds of gunshots. Stay low and cautiously check before turning corners.
• Hide (Barricade): Lock the door if possible or use heavy objects to barricade door. Stay low. Gather near doorway but not in line of sight upon opening.
• Fight (Overwhelm): Work together to surprise and “dog-pile” the shooter. Active responses have proven far more effective than passive.