Laney College Active Shooter: Safety & Emergency Protocols

Introduction

In light of recent concerns and inquiries regarding safety on campus, this article addresses the protocols and procedures in place at Laney College in the event of an active shooter situation. Understanding these measures is crucial for the safety and well-being of all students, faculty, and staff. We aim to provide clear, actionable information to help the Laney College community be prepared and informed. This guide covers emergency protocols, communication channels, and resources available to ensure a safe learning environment. — Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: Supreme Leader Of Iran

1. Laney College's Comprehensive Safety Plan

Laney College prioritizes the safety of its students, faculty, and staff. To this end, the college has developed a comprehensive safety plan that outlines procedures for various emergency scenarios, including active shooter incidents. The plan is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect best practices and address emerging threats. In our experience, a well-documented and frequently practiced safety plan is the cornerstone of effective emergency preparedness.

Key Components of the Safety Plan

The safety plan includes several key components designed to minimize risk and ensure a coordinated response in the event of an emergency: — Maryland Low Income Housing: Find Options With No Wait!

• Risk Assessment: Regular assessments are conducted to identify potential vulnerabilities and threats on campus.
• Emergency Response Procedures: Detailed protocols are in place for responding to various emergencies, including active shooter situations, fires, and natural disasters.
• Communication Protocols: A robust communication system is used to disseminate information to the campus community during emergencies.
• Training and Drills: Regular training sessions and drills are conducted to ensure that students, faculty, and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
• Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Laney College works closely with local law enforcement agencies to coordinate emergency response efforts.

Emergency Notification System

Laney College utilizes an emergency notification system to alert students, faculty, and staff to potential threats on campus. This system can disseminate information via multiple channels, including:

• Text Messages: Subscribers receive alerts directly to their mobile phones.
• Email: Emergency notifications are sent to official Laney College email addresses.
• Website Announcements: Information is posted on the Laney College website and social media channels.
• Public Address System: Announcements are broadcast over the campus PA system.

It is crucial for all members of the Laney College community to register for the emergency notification system and to regularly check official communication channels for updates.

2. Understanding Active Shooter Protocols

In the unfortunate event of an active shooter on campus, it is essential to know how to respond quickly and effectively. Laney College's active shooter protocol is based on the "Run, Hide, Fight" strategy, which provides individuals with options for protecting themselves and others.

Run, Hide, Fight: A Detailed Breakdown

The "Run, Hide, Fight" strategy is a widely recognized approach for responding to active shooter situations. Each component of the strategy is designed to maximize safety and minimize risk.

• Run: If there is a clear and safe escape path, evacuate the area immediately. Do not hesitate. Leave your belongings behind and help others if possible. Identify escape routes and exits beforehand.
• Hide: If evacuation is not possible, find a secure place to hide. This could be a classroom, office, or any location that can be locked or barricaded. Silence your cell phone and remain quiet.
• Fight: As a last resort, if your life is in imminent danger, fight back. Use any available objects as weapons and work together to overwhelm the attacker. Commit to your actions.

Practical Tips for Each Scenario

To further clarify the "Run, Hide, Fight" strategy, here are some practical tips for each scenario:

• When Running:
  • Have an escape route and plan in mind.
  • Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
  • Leave your belongings behind.
  • Help others if possible.
  • Prevent others from entering the area where the active shooter may be.
  • Keep your hands visible.
  • Follow the instructions of any police officers.
  • Do not attempt to move wounded people; instead, mark their location for rescue teams.
  • Call 911 when you are safe.
• When Hiding:
  • Hide in an area out of the active shooter's view.
  • Lock the door or block entry to your hiding place.
  • Silence your cell phone (including vibrations) and remain quiet.
  • Stay calm and wait for law enforcement to arrive.
• When Fighting:
  • Attempt to incapacitate the active shooter.
  • Act as aggressively as possible against him/her.
  • Throw items and improvise weapons.
  • Commit to your actions and fight with everything you have.

Reporting an Active Shooter

If you witness an active shooter or have information about a potential threat, it is crucial to report it immediately. Contact 911 and provide as much information as possible, including:

• Your location
• The location of the active shooter
• The number of shooters, if known
• A description of the shooter(s)
• The type of weapons being used
• The number of potential victims

Do not hesitate to report any suspicious activity or potential threats. Your actions could save lives.

3. Resources and Support Services

Laney College provides a range of resources and support services to help students, faculty, and staff cope with the emotional impact of emergency situations, including active shooter incidents. These resources are available to provide counseling, support, and guidance.

Counseling Services

The Laney College Counseling Department offers confidential counseling services to students. Counselors can provide support for managing stress, anxiety, and trauma related to emergency situations. These services are available on campus and can be accessed by contacting the Counseling Department directly.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Laney College provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for faculty and staff. The EAP offers confidential counseling and support services to help employees manage personal and professional challenges, including the emotional impact of emergency situations. The EAP is a valuable resource for maintaining well-being and resilience.

Campus Security and Safety Personnel

The Laney College Campus Security team is dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure campus environment. Security personnel are trained to respond to emergencies and provide assistance to students, faculty, and staff. Campus Security can be contacted 24/7 to report suspicious activity or request assistance. It's important to familiarize yourself with the location of campus security offices and emergency contact numbers.

Community Support Organizations

In addition to on-campus resources, several community support organizations can provide assistance during and after emergency situations. These organizations offer a range of services, including crisis counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.

4. Enhancing Campus Safety Together

Creating a safe campus environment is a shared responsibility. By working together and staying informed, the Laney College community can enhance safety and security for everyone. Here are some ways to contribute to a safer campus:

Active Participation in Training and Drills

Participate actively in all training sessions and drills related to emergency preparedness. These sessions provide valuable information and practical skills for responding to emergencies.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

Report any suspicious activity or potential threats to Campus Security or local law enforcement. Do not hesitate to report concerns, even if they seem minor.

Staying Informed

Stay informed about emergency procedures and safety protocols by regularly checking official communication channels and attending safety briefings. Knowledge is a powerful tool for preventing and responding to emergencies.

Promoting a Culture of Safety

Promote a culture of safety on campus by encouraging others to prioritize safety and report concerns. Create a supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable speaking up and taking action to enhance safety.

5. Review of Emergency Contact Information

Having quick access to emergency contact information is crucial during a crisis. Here's a summary of essential contact details for Laney College:

• Emergency: 911
• Laney College Campus Security: [Insert Phone Number Here]
• Laney College Counseling Department: [Insert Phone Number Here]
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): [Insert Phone Number Here]

Keep these numbers readily available in your cell phone and other convenient locations.

FAQ Section

Q1: What should I do if I see an active shooter on campus? A1: Immediately assess the situation and follow the "Run, Hide, Fight" protocol. If there is a safe escape path, run. If not, find a secure place to hide. As a last resort, fight back if your life is in imminent danger.

Q2: How can I register for the Laney College emergency notification system? A2: You can register for the emergency notification system through the Laney College website. Look for the "Emergency Alerts" or "Campus Safety" section and follow the instructions to sign up for text message and email alerts.

Q3: What resources are available if I experience emotional distress after an emergency situation? A3: Laney College offers counseling services through the Counseling Department and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for faculty and staff. These resources provide confidential support and guidance to help you cope with the emotional impact of emergency situations. — Lions Game: What Channel Is It On?

Q4: How often are emergency drills conducted on campus? A4: Emergency drills are conducted regularly throughout the year. Check the Laney College website or contact Campus Security for the schedule of upcoming drills.

Q5: Where can I find more information about Laney College's safety plan? A5: The Laney College safety plan is available on the college website or by contacting Campus Security. Reviewing the plan will help you understand emergency procedures and protocols.

Q6: What should I do if I see suspicious activity on campus? A6: Report any suspicious activity to Campus Security or local law enforcement immediately. Provide as much detail as possible about the activity, including the location, time, and description of the individuals involved.

Conclusion

Being prepared for an active shooter situation is essential for the safety and well-being of the Laney College community. By understanding and following the emergency protocols outlined in this article, students, faculty, and staff can contribute to a safer campus environment. Remember the "Run, Hide, Fight" strategy, stay informed about emergency procedures, and utilize the resources and support services available. Together, we can enhance campus safety and security for everyone. Should you have more questions, please contact the campus security or the student services for more resources.