Emergency & Crisis Management Procedures

For an Emergency call 301-687-4222

For a Non Emergency call 301-687-4223

Colleges and Universities are not always mentioned specifically in the planning that is occurring at the national, state and local public health department level. Yet, should a crisis occur, there may be large numbers of persons on campus who need to be informed, kept safe and possibly treated for a physical and/or mental condition.

The safety of the Frostburg State University community during an emergency is predicated on advance planning, as well as building awareness about how the plans will be implemented. Students, faculty, staff and visitors will be better prepared in an emergency if they know how the University will respond, where they can find information, and what they should do.

The key to that awareness is good communication. This site will be an essential tool for sharing plans and providing relevant information in case an emergency arises at Frostburg State University or in the surrounding area. It provides recommended procedures for responding to certain emergencies. This guide should be easily accessible in offices and other workspaces and used as a ready reference to supplement good judgment and common sense.

General Personal Preparedness Information Card (Printable PDF)

Communications in the Event of an Emergency

The University's Office of News and Media Relations will serve as the conduit for information on and off campus during a designated campus emergency, such as a weather-related incident or a more volatile situation, such as an active shooter or hostage situation.

In a campus emergency, the campus will be notified by using the following:


Please book mark this site and visit often, as you will find updated messages to the University community with relevant information and instructions in the event of an emergency.

Bomb Threats

Bomb Threat Call Procedures and Checklist (Printable PDF)

Upon receiving a bomb threat by phone:

  • Remain calm.
  • Listen carefully.
  • Do not interrupt the caller.
    • Try to keep the caller talking.
    • Keep the caller on the line as long as possible.
    • Do not anger the caller.
    • Write down exactly what the caller says.
  • Try to determine:
    • Time device is set to detonate.
    • Device location.
    • Description of device.
    • Type of explosive utilized.
    • What will cause the device to detonate?
    • If the caller is responsible for placing the device.
    • Why the device was placed.
    • Name, address, and phone number of caller.
    • Organization represented by the caller.
    • Exact wording of threat.
    • Time and length of call and number call was made to.
    • Age, gender, and voice characteristics of caller.
    • Background noises in the calls.
  • Ensure that University Police is notified at ext. 4222
  • Do not erase threats if they are left on voicemail.
  • Notify your supervisor.

Civil Disturbances/Protests

The University supports the rights of persons to self-expression, dissent, and to demonstrate provided that demonstrations are lawful, do not disrupt normal University activities, or do not infringe upon the rights of others. Most demonstrations are peaceful. People who are not involved in protests should attempt to carry on business as usual if safe to do so. It is the illegal acts, which may arise during these activities that concern the University.

If protests disrupt normal University activities, result in damage to University buildings or grounds, or threaten the safety of others:

  • Remain calm.
  • Notify the University Police at ext. 4222.
  • Avoid obstructing or provoking protesters.
  • Notify your supervisor.
  • Alert all persons in the area of the situation.
  • If prudent, lock doors and windows and close blinds to prevent flying glass.
  • If necessary to evacuate, follow the directions of responding University Police personnel.
  • If evacuated, meet at the predetermined evacuation location and wait for additional instructions and information.
  • Meet and cooperate with responding University Police personnel.

Domestic Violence

When a loved one hurts you, it can be embarrassing, confusing, and sometimes life-threatening. No one has the right to hurt you-even a family member. Getting help is the first step towards a safe future. This section gives you information on special rights and resources available for victims of domestic violence and/or stalking.

Special Rights Available to Victim

In Maryland, the police may make an arrest for an incident of domestic violence without witnessing the assault if they have “probable cause” to believe that an assault took place. Officers must make an arrest if an offender is in violation of the “stay away” or “don’t abuse” provision of a Civil Protective Order.

If an arrest is not made at the scene, a domestic violence victim may:

  1. Make application with a District Court Commissioner to file criminal charges
    or
  2. Request that the State’s Attorney file a criminal charge.

A victim of domestic violence may receive, upon request and without cost, a copy of the incident report from the law enforcement agency that responded to the call. A domestic violence victim may also request a “domestic stand-by” from an officer to ensure that she is safe while removing personal items to meet her emergency needs or those of any children in her care.

Services Available

Domestic violence is a complex crime that usually becomes more frequent and more severe without outside help. If you have been harmed by an intimate partner, it is important that you contact a local domestic violence program legal service. Protection from stalking in Maryland offers special protections for victims of stalking. Stalking is malicious conduct, and includes persistently, approaching or pursing another person with the intent to place them in fear of injury or death. If you think you are a victim of stalking, tell the police when they make an arrest, and/or immediately call the Court Commissioner to let them know that you may be a victim of stalking and are afraid for your safety. The Court Commissioner shall consider a stalking victim’s safety when deciding to release a defendant on pretrial release.

Evacuation Procedures

If safe to do so, shut off all machinery and equipment in work areas. Evacuate. Do not attempt to fight fires. Close doors and windows if time permits. Leave buildings at once using the nearest exit or stairway. Do not use elevators. Close as many doors as possible between you and the fire.

Feel doors before opening them. Do not open doors before feeling the doors and doorknobs. Use the backs of your hands to feel doors and doorknobs. Crawl if there is smoke. Use secondary exits if primary exits are blocked.

If you are trapped:

  • Stuff the cracks around doors with towels, lab coats, throw rugs, etc. to keep out as much heat and smoke as possible.
  • Go to windows and if there are no smoke or flames outside, open windows at the top. Signal for help by hanging a flag, i.e., sheet, jacket, etc., out the window.
  • Use available telephone to call the University Police at ext. 4222 and let them know your exact location.
  • Do not attempt to jump from multi-story buildings.

Do no re-enter buildings for any reason until fire or police officials say it is safe to do so. Render reasonable assistance to disabled persons.

  • Gather at pre-designated assembly areas.
  • Take roll and report missing or unaccounted for individuals to emergency responders.

Fire Emergencies

University buildings will be immediately and totally evacuated whenever building fire alarms are sounding.

  • If you see or suspect a fire, remain calm and activate fire alarms.
  • Report fires by phone from safe places outside buildings.
  • Call 911 from any on-campus, off-campus, or cell phone. At the emergency blue-light and yellow phones located around campus, press the emergency button to be connected to the University Police who can contact 911 for you, or dial 911 on the keypad to be connected directly to the 911 Center.
  • Call the University Police at ext. 4222.
  • Give as much specific information as possible when emergency operators answer. Operators need to be told calls are for Frostburg State University, what is burning, if known, the proper name, floor, and room number or other specific location information. Do not hang up unless it is unsafe or calls are released by emergency operators.
  • Report all fires, even if extinguished or found subsequent to being extinguished.
  • Report all fire alarms, even if they are suspected to be false or accidental.

Hazardous Materials - HAZMAT

HAZMAT incidents may be:

  • Indoor and outdoor fuel spills
  • Solvent or other chemical spills in shops
  • Chemical or biological spills in buildings and laboratories
  • Chemical odors in buildings
  • Natural gas smells and leaks
  • Fire in laboratory or other facility involving highly toxic chemicals, infectious substances or radioactive materials.

If you witness a hazardous material spill, evacuate the spill site and warn others to stay away.

If you are the HAZMAT user:

  • Leave the area of the spill first and go to a safe location nearby.
  • Determine if you have the proper training and protective gear to clean up the spill.
  • If you are able to clean up the spill, follow proper cleanup procedures and use proper personal protection.
  • Manage the generated waste appropriately.
  • Consult your supervisor as necessary.
  • Isolate the spill area to keep everyone away and post signs as necessary.

Individuals recognizing HAZMAT spills that require additional notifications and resources will:

  • Alert all individuals who might be harmed to evacuate the immediate area and to go to a location that will not impede emergency personnel.
  • If safe and appropriate to do so, limit the spread of the material by applying absorbent and shutting doors.
  • Notify the University Police, ext. 4222, on a University telephone located at a safe distance from the hazard to report:
    • The nature of the incident, and name of the HAZMAT, if known
    • The exact location
    • Whether or not there are any injuries
    • What symptoms are being exhibited by exposed individuals
    • Any other details that would assist officials in preparing their response

If you suspect or witness a release of a hazardous material to the environment (air, water, ground) call University Police.

Infrastructure Failures

Infrastructure failure can involve:

  • Utilities
  • Elevators
  • Fire detection and suppression systems
  • Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
  • Steam lines

To report infrastructure failures call:

Facilities, ext. 4125 Monday-Friday during operational hours

University Police, ext. 4223 during non-operational hours

Electrical Failures

  • Turn off equipment to reduce the potential for damage caused by power surges.
  • Evacuate laboratories because of the inability to operate fume hoods.

Plumbing Failures/Pipe Ruptures

  • Buildings will need to be evacuated if water or sewage systems cannot be restored within a reasonable time.
  • Turn off electrical equipment to minimize the potential for electrocutions and equipment damage.

Natural Gas Leaks

  • Open windows, if possible, to increase ventilation and let gas escape.
  • Turn off all possible ignition sources.
  • Do not turn on lights or any electrical equipment.
  • Call the University Police (ext. 4222) and Facilities (ext. 4125) from phones in areas removed from gas leaks.
  • Do not use the phone for any other reasons.
  • Activate building alarms if you believe there is potential danger to building occupants.
  • Do not start vehicles within areas of gas leaks.

Elevator Failures

  • Persons trapped in elevators should use emergency telephones in elevators to call the University Police.
  • Do not attempt to crawl through escape hatches or force elevator doors open. Only trained mechanics, elevator technicians, and fire/rescue personnel are permitted to conduct elevator rescues.

Fire Detection and Suppression System Impairments

  • Report all impairments of fire detection and suppression systems to the University Police.

Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Problems

  • Strange odors or minor smoke odors coming from HVAC systems should be reported to facilities, ext. 4125, for initial investigations.
  • Report large amounts of smoke coming from HVAC systems immediately to the University Police.

Steam Line Failures

  • Individuals must be evacuated from the area of steam line failures in order to protect them from steam burns.

Medical Emergencies

Basic Medical Emergency Information

  • In the event of a medical emergency, keep calm; act immediately.
  • Check the scene for safety. Check the victim for consciousness, breathing, pulse, and severe bleeding. Assist victims and remove them from hazards if injuries are minor. Do not move seriously injured victims unless they are in danger of further injury.
  • Notify persons in adjacent areas of potential hazards.
  • Care for life-threatening conditions if you have the proper training. If there is no life-threatening condition, provide first aid if you have the proper training, and:
    • Watch for changes in breathing and consciousness.
    • Help the victim rest comfortably.
    • Keep the victim from getting chilled or overheated.
    • Reassure the victim.
  • Summon medical help. If possible, do not leave victims alone.
    • First, activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911 from any on-campus, off-campus, or cell phone.
    • Second, call the University Police at ext. 4222.
  • Let the Emergency Medical System and University Police know if the victim:
    • Is unconscious
    • Has trouble breathing
    • Has chest pain or pressure
    • Is bleeding severely
    • Has pressure or pain in the abdomen that does not go away
    • Is vomiting or passing blood
    • Has a seizure
    • Has a severe headache or slurred speech
    • Appears to have been poisoned
    • Has injuries to the head, neck, or back
    • Has possible broken bones
  • Be prepared to give the following information:
    • What happened?
    • Number of victims
    • Type of injury
    • Exact location of the emergency
    • What help is being given
    • Your name and phone number
  • Do not transport seriously injured persons to the hospital and do not hang up until the dispatcher hangs up.

Specific Emergency Procedures

Inhalation Exposure

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Check the scene to make sure it is safe to enter.
  • Remove the victim as quickly as possible to fresh air if it can be done safely.
  • Never enter a confined space to attempt a rescue.
  • Keep the victim at rest and warm.
  • If the patient is unconscious, keep the airway clear.
  • Start rescue breathing if breathing has stopped.
  • Do not leave unconscious victims unattended.

Skin Exposure

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Act quickly. Corrosive chemicals can damage the skin very rapidly.
  • If only a small area of the skin is exposed, flood promptly with water and wash gently with soap.
  • Go to the nearest emergency shower and flood with large amounts of water for 15 minutes if large areas of the skin are involved.
  • Remove clothing while standing in the shower.
  • If chemicals are splashed on the head, eye protective equipment should be left on until the chemical has been washed away.
  • Do not use chemical neutralizers on the skin.

Eye Exposure

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • If a chemical is splashed into the eye, go immediately to the nearest eye wash fountain.
  • Spread the eyelid open with the fingers and wash the eye for at least 15 minutes.
  • Flood all surfaces of the eye and the underside of the eyelids with water.
  • If no eye wash stations is available, lay the victim on his/her back, turn the head, and pour water into the eye, directing the stream to the side of the head.
  • Do not attempt to remove foreign objects from the eye, cover the eye with a sterile pad and seek medical care immediately.

Poisoning

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, describe any containers or substances found at scenes, and follow their instructions.
  • Care for shock and monitor breathing while waiting for emergency help.
  • Do not give anything by mouth unless instructed to do so by medical professionals.

External Bleeding

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Put on a pair of latex gloves.
  • Cover wound with dressing and press firmly against the wound with your hand.
  • Elevate the wound above the level of the victim's heart if the bleeding does not stop and the wound does not involve a broken bone.
  • Apply a pressure bandage snugly over the wound.
  • If bleeding doesn't stop, apply additional dressings; do not remove blood soaked bandages.
  • Squeeze the artery against the bone.
  • Remove foreign materials from small cuts and carefully wash with soap and water, apply an antiseptic and bandage.
  • For minor wounds, patients may be transported to the Student Health Center, ext. 4310, at times when the Health Center is open. Calls should be placed to Student Health Center before transporting the patients there to ensure the Center is open and the injury can be treated there.

Shock

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Victims may go into shock following sever injuries. Shock is life threatening.
  • Signs of shock include extreme paleness, cold and clammy skin, perspiration on the forehead or hands, weakness, nausea, vomiting, shallow breathing and a weak, rapid pulse.
    • Have the victim lie down.
    • Control external bleeding.
    • Maintain normal body temperature.
    • If there are no head or neck injuries, elevate the legs about 12 inches.
    • Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink.

Cryogenic Burns (Super Cooled Liquids)

  • For short contact, immediately flush the area with large quantities of water.
  • For prolonged exposure or if visible tissue damage is apparent, activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, then call University Police at ext. 4222.

Fractures

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, then call University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Do not move the patient unless it is necessary to prevent further injury.
  • Splint the body part if the patient must be moved and you can do it without causing more pain.
  • Check for proper circulation before and after splinting.
  • Treat for bleeding and shock.

Strains and Sprains

  • Have the victim sit or lie down and elevate the extremity.
  • Apply ice to the injured area (15-20 minutes every 1.5 to 2 hours).
  • Transport to local health care facilities if patients are unable to bear weight or move injured extremities. Patients may be transported to Student Health Center, ext. 4310, at their request during those times the Health Center is open. Otherwise, activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911. Then call University Police, ext. 4222.

Electrical Shock

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Do not touch victims until they have been removed from electrical circuits.
  • Disconnect the power and cautiously remove the current source with an insulator such as a dry stick or board. Do not use metal or anything that is wet.
  • Check for breathing and pulse, give appropriate supportive care until Emergency Medical System arrives and assumes care of victims.

Clothing Fire

  • Proceed to a safety shower if immediately available.
  • If a safety shower is not available, fall to the floor and roll to smother the flames.
  • Fire blankets should only be used as a last resort, because they may hold heat in and increase the severity of burns.
  • Fire extinguishers should not be used on the skin because they can freeze the skin or increase the likelihood of infections.
  • Do not remove clothing that adheres to burnt skin.
  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.

Thermal Burns

  • Cool the burned area with large amounts of cool water.
  • Cover the burn with a dry, clean dressing.
  • Do not use ointments on a sever burn.
  • Don't apply ice to a burn unless it is very minor.
  • Watch for signs of shock.
  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222, if there is breathing difficulty, burns covering more than one body part, burns to the head, neck, hands, feet, or genitals, burns resulting from chemicals, explosion or electricity.
  • For minor thermal burns, patients may be transported to Student Health Center, ext. 4310, at their request during those times the Health Center is open. Calls should be placed to the Health Center before transporting patients there to ensure the Health Center is open and the injury can be treated there.

Sudden Illnesses

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Care for life threatening conditions first.
  • Help the victim rest comfortably.
  • Keep the victim from getting chilled or overheated.
  • Reassure the victim.
  • Watch for changes in consciousness and breathing.
  • Do not give anything to eat or drink unless the victim is fully conscious.
  • Place on left side of the victim vomits, is nauseated, or is not fully conscious.
  • Position victim on back and elevate legs if no head or spine injury is suspected and the victim has fainted or feels lightheaded.

Seizure

  • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Do not hold or restrain the victim or place anything between the teeth.
  • Remove any objects that may cause injury.
  • Cushion the victim's head.
  • Place victims on their left side after seizures stop to prevent aspiration in case of vomiting.

Diabetic Emergency

Diabetics frequently recognize signs of sugar level emergencies and will ask for assistance obtaining sugar. They may appear shaky and clammy. Give them some kind of real sugar, preferably in a liquid form.

  • If the victim does not get better in about five minutes, activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call University Police, ext. 4222.
  • If the victim goes unconscious, activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Patients may be transport to the Student Health Center, ext. 4310, at their request during those times the Health Center is open. Calls should be placed to the Health Center before transporting patients there to ensure the Health Center is open.

Heat & Cold Related Illnesses and Injuries

  • Heat Exhaustion is caused by a loss of body fluids and overheating of the body.
    • A victim will have symptoms of normal to high body temperature, cool, moist skin, nausea, headache, dizziness, and weakness.
    • To treat heat exhaustion:
      • Move the victim to a cool area.
      • Remove excessive clothing.
      • Give the victim a cool drink if not feeling nauseous and if fully conscious.
      • If the victim refuses water, vomits, or starts to lose consciousness, activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911 and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.

Heat Stroke is a more serious result of heat exposure caused by a high body temperature. Heat stroke can be FATAL.

  • A victim will have symptoms of high body temperature, NO SWEATING, and poor circulation.
  • To treat heat stroke:
    • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police. ext. 4222.
    • Get the victim out of the heat.
    • Remove the victim's outer clothing.
    • Apply cool, wet cloths to the skin and/or ice packs to areas such as wrists, armpits, back of neck, back of knees, and abdomen.

Hypothermia is caused by exposure to low temperatures.

  • In mild cases:
    • Remove any wet clothing from the victim.
    • Wrap the victim in a warm blanket or dry clothing.
    • Give the victim warm non-alcoholic drinks if fully conscious.
    • If unconscious, activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then contact the University Police at ext. 4222.
  • In moderate and severe cases:
    • Hypothermia: Shivering, numbness, lack of coordination, and lowered body temperature.
    • Frostbite: Lack of feeling in the affected area, skin appears waxy, and skin is cold to the touch.
    • Activate the Emergency Medical System by calling 911, and then call the University Police, ext. 4222.
  • Provide care to the victim:
    • Handle the victim gently.
    • Remove any wet clothing.
    • Wrap the victim in warm blankets or dry clothing.
    • If the victim is fully conscious and not nauseated warm drinks may be given.
    • DO NOT apply a hot water bottle or hot pack.
    • DO NOT massage the extremities.

Responding to an Active Shooter

An active shooter is a person who appears to be actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area; in most cases active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims. These situations are dynamic and evolve rapidly, demanding immediate deployment of law enforcement resources to stop the shooting and mitigate harm to innocent victims.

In general, how you respond to an active shooter will be dictated by the specific circumstances of the encounter, bearing in mind there could be more than one shooter involved in the same situation, try to remain calm and use the guideline to help you plan a strategy for survival.

If an active shooter is outside your building, proceed to a room that can be locked, close and lock all the windows and doors, and turn off all the lights; if possible get everyone down on the floor and ensure that no one is visible from outside the room. One person in the room should call University Police at X4222 or 9-911, advise the dispatcher of what is taking place, and inform him/her of your location; remain in place until the police give the “All Clear.” Unfamiliar voices may be the shooter attempting to lure victims from their safe space; do not respond to any voice commands until you can verify with certainty that they are being issued by a police officer.

If an active shooter is in the same building you are, determine if the room you are in can be locked and if so, follow the same procedure described in the previous paragraph. If your room can’t be locked, determine if there is a nearby location that can be reached safely and secured, or if you can safely exit the building. If you decide to move from your current location, be sure to follow the instructions outlined below.

If an active shooter enters your office or classroom, try to remain calm, dial 4222 or 9-911, if possible, and alert police to the shooter’s location; if you can’t speak, leave the line open so the dispatcher can listen to what’s taking place. If there is no opportunity for escape or hiding, it might be possible to negotiate with the shooter; attempting to overpower the shooter with force should be considered a very last resort, after all other options have been exhausted. If the shooter leaves the area, proceed immediately to a safer place and do not touch anything that was in the vicinity of the shooter.

No matter what the circumstances, if you decide to flee during an active shooting situation, make sure you have an escape route and plan in mind. Do not attempt to carry anything while fleeing; move quickly, keep your hands visible, and follow the instructions of any police officers you may encounter. Do not attempt to remove injured people, instead, leave wounded victims where they are and notify authorities of their location as soon as possible. Do not try to drive off campus until advised it is safe to do so by police.

  • What to Expect from responding officers:

    Police officers responding to an active shooter are trained to proceed immediately to the area in which shots were last heard; their purpose is to stop the shooting as quickly as possible. The first responding officer will normally be in teams; they may be dressed in regular patrol uniforms, or they may be wearing external bulletproof vests, Kevlar helmets, and other tactical equipment. The officers may be armed with rifles, shotguns, or handguns, and might also be using pepper spray or tear gas to control the situation.

    Regardless of how they appear, remain calm, do as the officers tell you, and do not be afraid of them. Put down any bags or packages you may be carrying and keep your hands visible at all times; if you know where the shooter is, tell the officers. The first officers to arrive will not stop to aid injured people; rescue teams composed of other officers and emergency medical personnel will follow the first officers into secured areas to treat and remove injured persons.

    Keep in mind that even once you have escaped to a safer location, the entire area is still a crime scene; police will usually not let anyone leave until the situation is fully under control and all witnesses have been identified and questions. Until you are released, remain at whatever assembly point authorities designate.

  • General Quick Response Guide:

    • Secure immediate area; lock and barricade doors,
    • Turn off lights
    • Close blinds
    • Silence cell phones
    • Block Windows
    • Turn off radios and computer monitors
    • Keep occupants calm, quiet, and out of sight
    • Keep yourself out of sight and take adequate cover/protection i.e. concrete walls, thick desk, filing cabinets (cover may protect you from bullets)
    • Place signs in exterior windows to identify the location of injured persons.

  • What to Report:

    • Your specific location – building name and office/room number
    • Number of people at your specific location
    • Injuries – number injured, types of injuries
    • Assailant(s) – location, number of suspects, race/gender, clothing description, physical features, type of weapons (long gun or hand gun), backpack, shooters identity of know, separate explosions from gunfire, etc.

Sexual Assault

Sexual Assault and rape are violent crimes that often leave victims feeling alone and frightened. Crimes of sexual violence are even more painful because victims must discuss very intimate details of the crime. Knowing what may happen ahead of time can reduce your anxiety and help you get through the process more comfortably. The most common asked questions are answered below.

Who Will Pay For My Medical Expenses?

A rape or sexual assault victim shall be examined without charge and the hospital and physician are entitled to be paid by the Department of Health. You or your insurance company will be responsible for any other medical treatment you receive. You may be eligible for compensation for expenses not covered by insurance.

Is There Mandatory Testing of the Offender for the HIV Virus?

Upon written request to the State’s Attorney, a victim of a crime involving a sexual offense, or other crime that may have caused or resulted in the exposure of the HIV Virus, may ask the court to order the accused to be tested for HIV. If you are afraid that you were exposed to this virus, talk to the State’s Attorney and/or your local sexual assault counselor for guidance in your situation.

How Much of My Personal History Will Be Made Public in a Trial?

Evidence relating to a victim’s prior sexual conduct can seldom be admitted as evidence. This issue varies depending on the circumstances of your case. If you are worried about this, talk to a sexual assault advocate or the Victim/Witness Coordinator in your State’s Attorney Office.

Can I Recover From This Violent Assault?

Sexual assault is a life-threatening experience and may result in extreme and long lasting trauma to the victim. The physical and emotional results of this trauma generally come in three stages; however, the effects of the assault are different for each victim.
The Acute Reaction usually occurs immediately; the most common signs of this stage are shock, disbelief, fear, anger, helplessness, mood swings, and eating or sleeping disturbances.

The next stage is often the Outward Adjustment. This can be a temporary period where the victim reports that everything is back to normal and tries to regain control over personal feelings and life situations.

The Integration stage most often begins with depression, followed by a renewal of Acute Reaction symptoms. The victim may become overwhelmed by the assault, make drastic life changes, and may also experience guilt.

Eventually, with the necessary emotional support, a survivor of sexual violence can work through the trauma and move past the experience.

Sheltering In Place

Sheltering in place means that individuals must seek immediate shelter in buildings or residence halls and remain there until emergency management officials issue additional instructions or declare that emergency conditions have ended.

Basic Information

  1. Sheltering in place is one of several response options available to emergency management officials in the event of certain emergencies.
  2. Sheltering in place is usually intended as a short-term option for limiting the potential exposure of persons to hazards that may be present outdoors. These situations may include, but are not limited to:
    • Hazardous material (HAZMAT) incidents
    • Weather emergencies
    • Chemical, nuclear, or biological incidents caused accidentally or intentionally

Notifications

Ways you may be notified to shelter in place include, but are not limited to:

  1. Alert sirens
  2. Radio or television announcements
  3. Emails; BURG Alert Text Messaging Service (cell phone alert)
  4. Observing dangerous conditions outdoors
  5. University or other emergency management officials
  6. Electronic text and voice emergency system

Additional Actions

  1. Close all doors and windows to the outside.
  2. Do not use elevators as they may pump air into or out of buildings.
  3. Turn off all machinery.
  4. If in laboratories, reduce all operations to safe conditions as quickly as possible, pull down sashes on chemical fume hoods, and discontinue laboratory processes that may create hazards if chemical fume hoods, bio safety cabinets, or building ventilation systems were turned off.
  5. Limit the use of telephone so that emergency communications will not be hindered by non-essential calls.
  6. Tune radios or televisions to Emergency Alert System (EAS) stations for further information (see below).
  7. University and emergency management officials will control building ventilation systems.
  8. Do not go outside or attempt to drive unless you are specifically directed to evacuate.
  9. Remain in place until university or emergency management officials tell you it is safe to leave or until information is announced through radio or television broadcasts alerting you that is safe to leave.

Emergency Alert System (EAS)

  1. All federally licensed broadcast stations and cable systems monitor the national EAS and their state-wide EAS. All participants in the EAS may also initiate their own, localized emergency messages.
  2. You can listen to any local radio station or watch any local television station for national or state-wide EAS announcements.
  3. You can listen to WFWM 91.9 for national, state-wide, and Frostburg State University specific EAS announcements.

Additional Resources

Suspicious Letters & Packages

Anyone receiving mail and packages should regularly, reasonably, and prudently examine those materials before opening them. Characteristics that may cause letters and packages to be treated as suspect are:

  • Letters and packages delivered by someone other than regular carriers
  • Packages wrapped in string because modern packaging materials have eliminated the need for twine and string
  • Excess use of securing materials, i.e., tape
  • Packages that are lopsided, heave sided, or have lumps, bulges, or protrusions
  • No postage, non-canceled postage, or excessive postage
  • Handwritten notes such as: "To Be Opened in the Privacy Of...", "Confidential", "This is Your Lucky Day"
  • Packages or letters that have no return addresses or nonsensical return addresses
  • Letters or packages arriving before or after phone calls asking if the items were received
  • Improper spelling of common names, places, or titles,
  • Leaks, stains, or protruding wires, foil, string, tape, etc.

If you discover a suspicious letter or package:

  • Stop immediately. Do not open items any further. Do not move items or put them in water or confined spaces such as desk drawers or filing cabinets.
  • Do not shake or empty the contents of any suspicious envelope or package.
  • Place the envelope or package in a plastic bag or some type of container to prevent leakage of contents.
  • If you do not have any container, then cover the envelope or package with something, i.e., clothing, paper, etc.
  • Ensure the University Police are notified at Ext. 4222.
  • Isolate the mailing and get people out of the immediate area.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water.
  • Notify your supervisor.
  • If possible, list all people who were in the room or area, especially those who had actual contact with the powder or substance. Give this list to the responding emergency personnel.
  • Meet and cooperate with responding University Police Officers.

If the letter or package has been opened, call the University Police at ext. 4222 and:

  • Do not try to clean up any powder or substance, but rather cover the spilled contents immediately with anything.
  • Leave the room and close the door, or section off the area to prevent others from entering.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent spreading any powder or other substance to your face.
  • Notify your supervisor.
  • Remove heavily contaminated clothing as soon as possible and place them in a plastic bag or some other container that can be sealed. This clothing bag should be given to the emergency responders for proper handling.
  • If possible, list all people who were in the room or area, especially those who had actual contact with the powder or substance. Give this list to the responding emergency personnel.
  • Meet and cooperate with responding University Police Officers.

Weather Emergencies

Summer Storms

  • A hurricane forecast means a hurricane (>74 MPH sustained wind speed) exists and may strike the area within 72 hours.
  • A hurricane watch means a hurricane may strike the area within 24-36 hours.
  • A hurricane warning means that a hurricane is expected within 24 hours or less.
  • A tropical storm watch means that a tropical storm (34-73 MPH sustained wind speed) exists and may strike the area within 36 hours or less.
  • A tropical storm warning means that a tropical storm warning may strike the area within 24 hours or less.

Tornadoes and Thunderstorms

  • A tornado watch means that tornadoes could develop in the designated area.
  • A tornado warning means that a tornado has actually been sighted in the area or is indicated by radar.
  • A severe thunderstorm watch indicates the possibility of thunderstorms, frequent lightning and/or damaging winds, hail, and heavy rain.
  • A severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm has actually been sighted in the area or is indicated by radar.

Everyone should pay attention to weather conditions, listen to the radio and television for weather alert information, and seek shelter before severe weather arrives.

Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that advance warning is not possible.

  • If warnings are issued, or if threatening weather approaches, seek shelter immediately.
  • If you are outdoors:
  • Seek inside shelter immediately.
    • Do not try to outrun tornadoes in vehicles, but leave them and seek indoor shelter or low spots off the side of roads.
    • Once you get to, or if you are already in, buildings:
  • Move to safer areas, such as basements.
    • If underground shelters are not available, move to interior rooms or hallways on the lowest floors and get under sturdy pieces of furniture.
    • Stay away from windows.

Winter Storms

  • A winter storm warning means severe winter weather is imminent or very likely within 12 hours.
  • A winter storm watch means at least four inches of snow in 12 hours, or six inches in 24 hours, or significant ice accumulations are possible within 24-48 hours.
  • A winter weather advisory means cold, ice, and snow are expected to cause significant inconvenience and may be hazardous, but probably not life threatening.

The University Police will communicate information about weather emergencies through the University's email system as appropriate and feasible. Additional notification systems are being evaluated for future implementation.

University decisions to cancel or otherwise modify class and work schedules because of emergency weather conditions will be announced through outlets that include, but are not limited to:

  1. Frostburg State domain email
  2. Frostburg State University's webpage
  3. Area radio and TV stations: WFWM Radio (91.9FM), WKGO Radio (106.1FM), WFRB Radio (105.3FM)
  4. Burg Alert Messaging Service (cell phone alert)

Additional Resources

Workplace Violence/Criminal Behavior

Individuals who become violent at work or threaten to become violent have usually displayed behaviors long before they take any action. Individuals prone to workplace violence may:

  1. Be chronically disgruntled
  2. Be inflexible
  3. Cause trouble on the job
  4. Frequently change jobs
  5. Be quick to perceive unfairness or malice in others
  6. Be unwilling to take responsibility for problems - it's always someone else's fault
  7. Often challenge management's requests, either passively or actively
  8. Have a deep sense of entitlement
  9. Have a past history of violent acts or threats
  10. Have complaints that often appear to be of a paranoid nature, i.e., blown out of proportion and taken personally, especially when action was not intended that way
  11. Have recently experienced stressful events
  12. Have access to weapons or fascinations with weapons (they will often mention this others)
  13. Abuse alcohol or other substances
  14. If there have been allusions to violent acts committed by others and an expression of empathy with those who resort to violence

On-the-Spot Managing of Violence

  1. Remain calm.
  2. To the extent that you can, try to continue to communicate with the individual calmly and confidently.
    Call the University Police at ext. 4222. If you cannot call, instruct others to call. Report your name and location and information on "who, what, where, and when".
  3. Do not physically attempt to get the suspects to leave. Do not touch them.
  4. If violent behavior is occurring, escape, hide if not already seen, or cover up if injury is likely.
  5. Make every possible effort to get others out of the immediate area.
  6. Except as a last resort do not attempt to disarm or accept weapons from suspects.
  7. If weapons are involved, calmly ask suspects to put weapons in neutral locations.
  8. Don't argue, threaten, or block suspects' exit.

Workplace Violence/Criminal Behavior

Immediately call the University Police at ext. 4222 from any on-campus phone and be prepared to report information that may include:

  1. Your name and present location
  2. Nature of incidents
  3. Locations of incidents
  4. Descriptions of persons involved
  5. Description of property involved
  6. Where suspects were last seen and their direction of travel
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