SAFETY and EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES

Remain calm
Assist the person to a safe place
Do not restrain the student.
If the person is lying on the floor, move anything (chairs, desks, backpacks) that may cause the person harm.
If possible, place something soft (sweater, jacket) between the person’s head and the floor.
Assist the person to their side, if possible.
Do not put anything into the person’s mouth.
The seizure should last a few minutes and will run its natural course.
When the seizure is over, the person may be very tired and will want to leave the class/location.
If the person wants someone to accompany her/him, allow another student/person to do so.
If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, or if another seizure occurs immediately after the first, call University Police to request the paramedics. (Dial 911 from campus phone for medical or fire emergency; 278-8400 from cell phone.)
This is a life threatening event. How you respond demonstrates to others how they can respond.

Explain the nature of the emergency.
Offer to assist the person to the nearest exit.
Ask the person what type of guidance would be preferable. Usually the person would prefer to take your elbow.
As you walk, explain what you are doing and where you are.
Caution about obstacles as you go.
When you reach safety, ask the person what he/she would like you to do now.
Orient the person to the location.

It is preferable, if it is possible, that emergency personnel trained in evacuation procedures assist a person with mobility impairments to evacuate.
If emergency personnel are not in the vicinity or on their way to assist, ask the person how he/she would like to be assisted. Ask specific questions if the person requests to be lifted out of a wheelchair.
If someone is available to assist, encourage the other person to assist you. Be very cautious, since some persons in wheelchairs do not have upper body (chest, neck) strength.
If possible, bring the assistive equipment (cane, walker, wheelchair) with you. Be cautious to not dislodge leg bags, pumps or catheters that may be located under clothing.

Write a note explaining the situation and the location of the closest exit. If no paper is available, get the student’s attention and use gestures to show what is happening.
If the person would like, accompany her/him to a safe area.
Ask, via writing if possible, what the student would like you to do now.

Campus Link: University Police Department, Emergency Procedures Online Manuel