Emergency Procedures

Bethel College is a primarily residential campus and doesn't typically cancel classes. Commuter students should use their judgment regarding their safety when traveling conditions become precarious and contact their professors about rescheduling exams if necessary.

If there are cancelations or closures, an e-mail will be sent to the campus community. If electronic communications are disabled, the following stations will be provided with the information:

KSNW, Channel 3; KAKE, Channel 10; KWCH, Channel 12; KFDI-FM; KRBB-FM; KFTI-AM; KICT-FM; KFXJ-FM; KYQQ-FM

In Kansas, the high activity tornado months are April, May, and June, but tornadoes may occur through October. A "tornado watch" is issued when the atmosphere is favorable for the development of tornadoes.

A "tornado warning" is issued when a tornado has actually been sighted or spotted by radar within ten miles of the city limits of Newton and YOU SHOULD TAKE COVER!

What to do when a tornado siren sounds:

• Stay calm. Your response will reassure other residents.
• Take shelter in the center of the basements or if necessary, inner halls, janitor closets, showers, or bathrooms on first floors can be utilized.
• Stay away from windows and large roof spans.
• Sit on the floor, preferably with your head down to protect you from possible flying debris.
• Stay inside until a member of the Residence Life staff tells you it’s all clear.
• Report any damage and/or injuries to your Residence Director.

If you discover a fire:

1. SOUND THE ALARM AND LEAVE THE BUILDING BY THE NEAREST EXIT.
2. Call the fire department by dialing 911 (8-911 from a campus phone). Give as much information as you can to the dispatcher. Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you that he/she has all the information needed.

*DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PUT OUT THE FIRE OR RESCUE OTHERS UNLESS YOU CAN DO SO SAFELY.

Where to go if there’s a possibility of fire:

If there is smoke in the room drop to the floor and stay low. Smoke inhalation is often fatal. Feel the door before opening it. If hot, do not open the door. If cool, brace against the door and push open slowly. If heat or heavy smoke is present, close the door and remain in the room.

If you cannot leave the room or exit safely:

1. Remain calm. The room is designed to withstand fire for long periods of time. Seal up the cracks around and under the door using sheets, towels, or clothing to prevent smoke from entering your room. These items should be wet if possible.
2. Hang an object out the window (sheet, jacket, shirt) to attract the attention of the Fire Department. Call 911 (8-911 from a campus phone) immediately.
3. Stay near window and low to the ground. A wet cloth will aid in breathing if smoke is in the room.

If you can leave your room:

1. Take a wet cloth for your face to aid in breathing if you run into smoke.
2. Close the door behind you and take your keys.
3. Proceed to the nearest exit. Do not use an elevator, you could become trapped. If the exit is blocked with smoke or fire, proceed to another exit. Keep low to the ground if smoke is present. Cover your face with wet cloth and take short breaths of air.
4. Stand clear of the building after evacuating and follow the directions of fire, police, and residence hall personnel.
   NEVER RE-ENTER A BURNING BUILDING.

Be prepared:

1. Know the location of nearest escape route. This will reduce panic in case of emergency.
2. Take fire drills seriously. Drills will make you familiar with evacuation procedures.
3. Know emergency numbers: Fire Department: 911 (8-911 from a campus phone)

Since Bethel College is primarily a residential campus, classes may continue if faculty members believe conditions permit the class to continue; however, do turn off and unplug electrical appliances and computers.

Medical Emergency: If you have questions about medical assistance, contact your RA or RD. In case of an emergency, call 911 (8-911 from a campus phone).

Criminal Activities: Dial 911 (8-911 from a campus phone) in case of an emergency. You can report suspicious or threatening behavior, or concerns about another student to the Student Life Office.

Because of the strong commitment to being a community of persons that trust and respect each other, one can feel safe on the campus. However, this does not mean that reasonable safeguards should not be taken. All members of the community are encouraged to observe the following:

1. Be aware of your surroundings.
2. If walking in less well lighted areas after dark, carry a flashlight or walk with a companion.
3. Lock your door when you leave your room.
4. Guard your keys; do not loan them to others.
5. If anyone makes comments to you that make you feel uncomfortable or threatened in any way, say so and/or walk away. If anyone continues this behavior after you have asked them to stop, report it to any member of the Student Life Staff.
6. Inform your RA or RD immediately of any acts that threaten the safety or security of the residence hall, or of the presence of persons who should not be in the building.
7. Know the location of emergency telephones on campus. These are in red metal boxes and are set up to dial 911.
   There are six:
1. Warkentin Court on the east side of Mod 1A next to the parking lot
2. Haury Hall on the west wall just north of the front sidewalk
3. Schultz Student Center to the left of the front entrance
4. Tennis courts on the east side at the lighting controls
5. Goering Hall on the west exterior wall
6. Fine Arts Center at the west entrance from the parking lot.

Read the report on campus crime.