Emergency Response Procedures

Bomb Threats

All bomb threats are considered valid until proven otherwise. In the event of a bomb threat DO NOT use radio, cellular phone or any other electronic device. These devices have the capacity to detonate an explosive device. In addition, do not turn the lights on or off but have them remain in their current position. 

After you receive a bomb threat please call Campus Security at 705-748-1333 (Peterborough) or 905-435-5111 (Durham) immediately after the call/threat. Campus Security will make an immediate decision to Call the Senior Director Risk Management and Campus Safety or evacuate the threaten area immediately. 

If you receive a bomb threat 

Most bomb threats are made directly by telephone. If you receive a bomb threat: 

1. Listen to what the caller is saying
2. Do not put the caller on hold
3. Be calm and courteous
4. Do not interrupt the caller or hang up
5. If you have call display, record the number
6. If possible, signal a co-worker to call Campus Security
7. Obtain as much information as you can. Suggested questions are listed below:
   • When will the bomb explode?
   • Where is it located?
   • What does it look like?
   • What is your name?
   • Why did you place the bomb
8. Record when the call took place and the exact wording of the threat
9. Record and Characteristics of the Caller:
   • Sex
   • Estimated Age
   • Accent
   • Diction (Deliberate, Rushed, Clipped etc.)
   • Manner (Calm, Emotional, Threatening etc.)
   • Any other identifying information
10. Record any background noise

In the event of Immediate Evacuation Instructors and Supervisors

1. Remain calm and assume leadership
2. Tell everyone to turn off their mobile devices
3. Tell everyone in the area to take their personal belongings with them
4. Perform a quick visual scan of the routes used to evacuate.
   • Look for suspicious objects and trip wires.
     • DO NOT approach or touch any suspicious objects
     • Select another evacuation route if you detect a trip wire
5. Evacuate to a muster point and remain there until an "ALL CLEAR" is given via Emergency Communications System, Police or Campus Security
6. Report any suspicious items or activities to Campus Security

Civil Disorder / Riots

If you notice any civil disorder or riots please contact Campus Security at 705-748-1333 (Peterborough) or 905-435-5111 (Durham). Campus Security will contact Police and take the first actions to deal with civil disorder and riots.

Trent faculty, staff and students are advised to:

• Stay calm and avoid physical confrontations, except in self-defence.
• If the situation gets worse and you feel in physical danger, move to an area where you can lock the door.
• Remain there until it is safe to leave.

Diffusing Volatile Situations for Front Desk Workers

As service providers, university workers can be faced with stressed or frustrated individuals.  From time to time, stress or frustration can escalate to verbal or even physical violence.  If you ever feel uncomfortable please call Campus Security at 705-748-1333 (Peterborough) or 905-435-5111 (Durham) when it is safe to do so.

In Person:

Be prepared for the likelihood that stressed, frustrated or angry people will want to vent. Allow a set amount of time for the individual to vent.  Pay attention and listen to their concerns then provide suggestions or alternate avenues they may pursue.  Maintain eye contact throughout the interaction so that the person knows you are listening to them.

While speaking with the individual, make a mental description paying special attention to distinctive details which would make it easier for Campus Security/Police to identify them.  Examples include tattoos, piercings, glasses, hair styles, height, clothing, items being carried or vehicle plate if applicable.

Do not allow yourself to be maneuvered into a secluded spot alone with the person.  Arrange your office space to provide a route of escape if necessary. 

On the Phone:

Do not identify yourself by first and last name. If, after attempting to assist the caller, they become or continue to be aggressive, politely terminate the call as quickly as possible.

If the caller persistently calls back after attempting to assist, either put them on hold and call Security on another line to give a brief update, then advise the caller you are going to transfer the call and transfer the call to Campus Security.

Service Failure Primary Response

In any of the following situations the primary response is to call Campus Security at 705-748-1333 (Peterborough) or 905-435-5111 (Durham). During working hours at the Peterborough campuses, you can also call Fixit at 705-748-1366.

Electrical Failure

Certain essential University services, such as emergency lighting, some telephones, and the fire alarm systems will continue to function during a power failure, but lighting will be minimal and is designed only for providing illuminated exits for about 20 minutes.

Evacuation may be required if there is insufficient natural light to safely move about. Campus Security will provide direction and post notices.  Monitor the web and media outlets for instructions. 

Gas Failure

Gas leaks (a strong, rotten-egg like smell) should be reported immediately to Campus Security. 

When natural gas supplies fail, many devices that were lit and operating before the failure may still have a gas flow. This could cause an explosive atmosphere. Physical Resources will be contacted by Campus Security to ensure all necessary valves are shut off.

In many cases, the loss of gas services will mean a loss of heat and hot water.  Notices will be posted in the event of localized short-term interruptions.  Monitor the web and media outlets in the event of larger or long-term interruptions.

It is the responsibility of the department head or supervisor of areas requiring the use of gas-fired appliances to develop procedures and assign authority to specific staff members to supervise the operation of all gas-fired appliances.

Water Failure

In Peterborough during working hours smaller leaks should be reported to fix-it at 705-748-1366.

Water supply failure can cause minor inconveniences such as inoperable sinks and washrooms, service interruptions due to the loss of water cooled equipment and control rooms and life safety concerns such as the loss of water needed for fire protection systems. Notices will be posted in the event of localized, short-term interruptions.  Monitor the web and media outlets for instructions in the event of larger, or long-term interruptions.

Elevators - What to Do if You are Stuck

Do not attempt to pry open the elevator doors.

Campus elevators are equipped with emergency buttons. Press the emergency button to speak to the operator. The operator will receive information from you and dispatch necessary services. Campus Security will initiate rescue procedures.

Opening the elevator doors can take upwards of an hour. Please remain calm. Activate the emergency button again to advise of any changes, including changes in your status( i.e. medical or other conditions).

Fire Emergency

We ask that you be prepared in any situation - know the location of the fire exit, fire alarm, and fire extinguisher closest to your primary location. Familiarize yourself with the procedures below so that you are generally prepared in case of a fire. If you discover any form of fire please call 911 from a safe location then call Campus Security at 705-748-1333 (Peterborough) or 905-435-5111 (Durham). 

If you discover a fire:

• Activate the nearest pull station.
• Dial 911 from a safe location then call Campus Security.
• If the fire is SMALL, you could try to put it out with a fire extinguisher to reduce the risk of personal injury and fire damage (see below for information on using an extinguisher).
• Leave the area immediately.
• Close all doors.
• Assist people with disabilities or children, as required.
• Exit by stairwells; do not use elevators.
• Leave the building by the nearest safe exit.
• Wait outside the building at a muster point and follow the directions of Campus Security, Fire Wardens, or the Fire Department.

If you are trapped:

• Dial 911 then call Campus Security. Campus Security will direct the Fire Department to your location.
• Place towels/clothes (wet if possible) at the bottom of the door.
• Open windows, if possible.
• Stay close to the floor if there is a lot of smoke

If your clothes catch fire:

• Stop whatever you are doing.
• Drop to the ground.
• Roll to smother the flames. If someone else's clothes catch fire have them stop, drop and roll.

Using an Extinguisher:

You are not required to put the fire out - but if you attempt to extinguish a fire then you need to know your fire extinguishers. Only attempt to put a fire out if you have a clear exit from the room. Do not turn your back on a fire and keep your exit from the room open and accessible at all times. Once you leave a burning room, do not re-enter. Close the door to a room with a fire. 

Think "PASS":

• P - " Pull" the safety pin at the top of the extinguisher.
• A - "Aim" the nozzle/hose at the base of the flames.
• S - "Squeeze" or press the handle.
• S - "Sweep" from side to side at the base of the fire until it is out.

Know your Extinguisher:

• Type A (green triangle) - use for paper and wood
• Type B (red square) - use for flammable liquids such as gas, oil, paint.
• Type C (blue circle) - use for electrical fires involving wires or appliances.
• Type D (yellow pentagram( star)) - use for combustible metals.

Remember - if you cannot extinguish the fire within 30 seconds - get yourself out!

Medical Assistance

If you or someone else requires medical assistance, call – or have someone else call – Campus Security at 705-748-1333 in Peterborough or 905-435-5111 in Oshawa immediately. Give the exact location of the injured/ill party, the type of injury/illness and what, if any, first aid is being administered. During the Academic year on the Symons Campus, Campus Security will dispatch the Trent University Emergency First Response Team (TUEFRT). Campus Security is available to respond to any call for medical assistance 365 days per year. 

If you determine that the nature of the medical emergency is life threatening, contact 911 and Campus Security.  Security Staff will assist emergency personnel in locating you.  It is very important when calling 911 that you be aware of your building address.  Each building on the Trent University Symons Campus has a different address.

Once you are on the scene of a medical emergency, survey the area to make sure no danger exists.  If the area is safe, administer first aid until help arrives.

Accident Resulting in Critical Injury or Death

All accidents resulting in critical injury must be reported to the Ministry of Labour; those resulting in death to the Coroner. This is done by the Environmental Health and Safety Officer.

Critical Injuries are defined as Injuries that:

• Place life in jeopardy.
• Make someone unconscious.
• Result in a substantial loss of blood.
• Cause an arm or leg to break.
• Cause the amputation of a leg, arm or foot (but not a finger or toe).
• Cause burns to a major portion of the body.
• Cause the loss of sight in an eye.

Campus Security will safeguard the site until all investigations are carried out.

Natural Disasters

If you feel unsafe during any natural disaster please call Campus Security at 705-748-1333 (Peterborough) or 905-435-5111 (Durham) or 911.

Earthquakes

• Stay indoors, if already there. Emergency evacuations will be made when it is safe to do so.
• Sit under sturdy furniture or against central inside walls.
• Stay away from glass windows and doors.
• Do not use elevators.
• If you are outside, stay away from buildings, bridges, and utility wires.
• Buildings will be evacuated after the earthquake, after-shocks, and tremors have stopped.
• Do not re-enter any building unless you receive permission from Campus Security or Police.

Major Floods

Floods can usually be anticipated, unless they are a flash flood caused by torrential rainfall or caused by the bursting of a storage tank or water main.

• Remain in a safe place in any flood.
• Follow instructions that will be given from time to time by Campus Security.
• If you are trapped, call Campus Security to advise of your location.

Tornadoes

Tornado watches are issued when the conditions are right for tornadoes to develop. Tornado warnings mean that a tornado has actually been sighted in the area, or is indicated by radar.

Tornado Watch

• Listen to a radio or monitor media for up-to-date weather service announcements.
• Watch the sky, especially to the south and southwest. Tornadoes usually move from the west to the east.

Tornado Warning

• If you are outdoors:
  • Get indoors, preferably in a substantial steel-frame, reinforced concrete building.
  • If you can't get indoors, go to the nearest ditch, culvert or low-lying area, take cover, and lie flat.
• If you are indoors:
  • Move to the basement
  • Open doors on the sides of the building away from the approach of the tornado, but stay away from them to avoid flying debris.
  • Close doors on the sides of the building toward the approach of the tornado.
  • Stay away from windows to avoid being hit by broken glass.

Spills and Leaks - Radiation, Biohazards or Chemical Agent

If you cannot control or contain the spill through individual department procedures, please call Campus Security at 705-748-1333 (Peterborough) or 905-435-5111 (Durham).

Localized Minor Chemical Spill/Leak 

Your department should have control procedures that cover: 

• Evacuation of the immediate area
• Containment, decontamination, and control
• Appropriate personal protective equipment
• Incident documentation and investigation
• Notification of the Environmental Health and Safety Officer.

We suggest you familiarize yourself with your department's individual procedure now.

Major Chemical Spill/Leak 

If the spill/leak exceeds the capacity of your department's individual procedures or if you are in doubt as to how to handle the spill:

• Evacuate the immediate area.
• Call Campus Security and inform them of:
  • exact location of spill/leak
  • name and nature of chemical, its hazards.
  • volume or extent of leak
  • any person(s) who may have been contaminated
• Campus Security will then notify the appropriate internal and external agencies.

Suspicious Mail and Packages

If you notice suspicious mail or packages please report this immediately to the Trent Campus Security at 705-748-1333 (Peterborough) or 905-435-5111 (Durham) and no do approach or handle. 

You should be suspicious of mail with any of the following traits:

• unusual thickness, weight or size.
• "cut and paste" lettering, improvised labels, or obviously disguised script.
• unusual odours, dust or powder adhering to the envelope or package, or oily/greasy stains.
• the feeling of springiness, metallic components or stiffeners in letters.
• excessive postage.
• small holes, protruding wire, string or metal foil.
• excessive wrapping, binding or tying materials.
• unbalanced or lopsided letters or parcels, or letters that appear to have something other than folded paper inside.
• undecipherable or no return address / incorrectly or inappropriately addressed mail.
• unusual or unexpected point of origin, unusually restrictive markings such as "personal", "to be opened only by", "fragile", "rush" or "do not delay delivery" or inaccuracies in the address or title of the recipient.

The Emergency Communication System at Trent consists of audio announcements on building speaker systems and text announcements on Trent University computers, digital signs and a message on the new Alertus app or TrentU Safety app. 

Download the Alertus App

Download the TrentU Safety App

Campus Security will activate the Emergency Communication System as soon as they are advised of a violent intruder on campus.  If you witness a violent intruder or hear a violent intruder announcement, you should:

RUN, HIDE, FIGHT

RUN: leave the building or campus if you can do so safely and get to a safe place where you can take cover. Call 911 and provide as much information as possible, then call Campus Security at 705-748-1333 so they can initiate an emergency broadcast and assist police responders.

HIDE: i.e. LOCKDOWN; If you cannot escape, find a room that you can secure.  You may have to leave the one you are currently in.  Close doors and blinds, turn off lights and silence mobile devices that might signal your presence.  Secure the door by locking, tying or barricading to deter the intruder. Do not let anyone in unless advised that it is safe to do so by the Emergency Communication System or a uniformed police officer.

FIGHT: formulate a plan to incapacitate the intruder(s) if they enter your space. Being committed to defending yourself by any means available will increase your chances of survival.

At all times, follow the instructions and answer the questions of law enforcement personnel.  Show them empty hands and do not run towards them.  They will keep moving past you to find the intruder. Police officers are trained to respond to a hostile intruder by entering the building immediately and proceeding to the area where the incident is unfolding.  They will move quickly and directly.  Early in the incident, they may not be able to rescue people because their main goal will be to neutralize the suspect. Please try to remain as calm as possible during any such incident and obey the officers’ directives so as not to interfere with police operations.  A rescue team is formed shortly after the first responding officers enter the building; they will be the officers who help get everyone out of the building safely.

Please take a moment to view the video “Shooter on Campus: Know you can survive” put out by Campus Alberta.  Please note that the content may be disturbing to some viewers.

For more information on campus violence and what you can do about it, view the Workplace Violence and Harassment policy on the Trent Policy SharePoint Library.