March 19, 2024
Active threat exercises set for April 24 to improve emergency response
The Emergency Operations Center will hold active threat exercises from 8 a.m. to noon April 24 to see how its teams work together in responding to an emergency and to analyze strengths and areas for improvement.
Each year, EOC conducts exercises based on a simulated scenario. Unlike previous years, the 2024 exercises will focus on hours 4 through 8 of an active shooter scenario, continuing from where EOC left off last year. EOC comprises several university departments, including the Department of Public Safety, faculty, University Housing, Student Health Services, University Communications and Marketing, and others.
“Faculty, staff and students may notice increased activity at the Student Center and more messaging via email and text from the university,” said Ben Newman, director of public safety and chief of police. “But for most of the campus community, it will be business as usual; people who are directly involved will be notified in advance. Even if people are not participating in the exercises, we encourage them to take steps to prepare for an active threat scenario.”
Students, faculty and staff who would like to know what to do in case of an active shooter may visit Emergency Preparedness website. The Active Threat webpage explains “Run. Hide. Fight.” messaging and has a video with helpful information (be aware that the initial sequence may be disturbing). In addition, the Department of Public Safety offers violence prevention and response training the first Wednesday of each month; visit Emergency Preparedness website for more information.
If the exercises cause distress, students can receive counseling from CAPS, or Counseling and Psychological Services, at a variety of locations from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and 12:30-9 p.m. weekends. Call 618-453-5371 for assistance.