Severe Weather

If you encounter severe weather, remember these general guidelines:

• Close all windows, blinds, and shades
• Move away from the perimeter of the building and toward a safe area on your floor such as a corridor, lobby area, interior restroom, or stairwell
• Do not attempt to leave the building
• Do not use elevators
• Remain calm and follow directions from The Chicago School personnel

Flooding

• If possible, eliminate all sources of electricity from the flooded area. If the power switch is accessible and AWAY FROM THE WATER, switch it off.
• If possible, remove all documents and portable equipment from the premises or relocate it to a higher location. Close file drawers to limit damage.
• Evacuate the immediate area.
• The building’s Facilities department will administer a water shutoff and possible shutdown of the electrical power and gas supply if required.

Tornadoes

If you become aware of a tornado watch, notify Facilities immediately. Listen for instructions over the public address system or from Facilities personnel, which may include the following:

• Move away from the perimeter of the building, including windows, and close all doors.
• Directions will most likely include gathering toward corridors and/or elevator lobbies.
• Do not use elevators.
• Remain in the designated area until an “all clear” announcement has been made.

Earthquakes

Various campuses of The Chicago School are located in a region which is an earthquake zone, and it is possible that the area may be subject to ground shaking for an earthquake. It is conceivable that The Chicago School could experience an earthquake that could force displacement of students, faculty, and staff. Below is a contingency plan for programming in the event of an earthquake disaster.

During an Earthquake:

• Get under a desk, table, or other sturdy object and hold on or brace yourself against a wall in the core of the building. Protect your head. REMEMBER: DUCK, COVER & HOLD.
• Stay away from windows, bookcases, filing cabinets, and any objects that may fall or shatter. Do not dash for exits since stairwells may be damaged. Do not use elevators until they are checked for safety.
• Do not be surprised if the electricity goes off.
• Do not smoke or use matches or lighters in case of gas leaks.

After an Earthquake:

• Check for injured and assist. Do not attempt to move a seriously injured person unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.
• Inspect your floor for damage. Check for fires, electrical shorts, and gas or water leaks.
• If you suspect a gas leak, DO NOT use matches or cigarette lighters or turn on electricity switches or appliances. If you smell gas, contact building security and maintenance.
• Open doors carefully. Watch for falling objects.
• Wear shoes and gloves for protection from debris and broken glass.
• Stay away from windows/glassed areas.
• Replace telephone receivers so the telephone system will work. However, telephones should be used for emergency calls only.
• Listen to the radio for emergency reports.
• Do not cause panic by spreading rumors regarding the building condition, extent of damage and injuries, etc.
• Cooperate with public safety officials.
• BE PREPARED FOR AFTERSHOCKS.

If You are Outside of the Building when an Earthquake Occurs:

• Move away from buildings, utility wires and poles, debris, and areas subject to falling glass.
• If you are unable to reach a clear area, move under a table.
• If threatened by falling debris, cover your face with one forearm and the back of your head with the other.
• The most dangerous place to be is on a sidewalk subject to falling debris such as glass and masonry.