Procedures During a Tornado or Severe Weather

  1. Immediate Action: Upon severe weather or tornado alerts, all staff, students, and visitors on Ozarks Tech Campuses and Centers must immediately seek a safe area.
  2. Notification: The Ozarks Tech Campus Alert System informs individuals inside buildings via the Campus Alert Phone System and overhead announcements, which can also be heard outdoors. Furthermore, the college may issue text and email notifications and employ additional external channels such as social media.

Identifying Safe Areas

  1. Location: The safest areas are interior hallways on the lowest level, centrally located in buildings. Avoid hallways facing south or west and spaces like auditoriums with wide, free-span roofs or exterior windows.
  2. Time Sensitivity: If you are on the upper floors, you may not have time to reach the lowest level. Instead, find the safest area on your current floor.
  3. Protective Actions: In your safe area, face the wall, crouch, and cover your head. If in an interior room, seek shelter under sturdy furniture.

Responsibilities of Instructors, Staff and Students

  1. Classroom Procedures: If leaving the classroom, close doors. Instructors should carry class rosters for accountability.
  2. Post-Event Protocol: After the “ALL CLEAR” signal from the Safety and Security Department, instructors and supervisors must account for everyone and report any missing or injured individuals to safety and security (Phone: 417-447-6911).

During and Post-Event Communications

  1. Remain in Safe Area: Stay in your safe area until the “ALL CLEAR” is given. If relocation is necessary, a new location will be provided.
  2. Alternative Communication: If the Campus Alert System fails, alternatives like bullhorns, runners, or social media will be used.
  3. Telephone Usage: Minimize cell phone use to prevent overwhelming the system.

Additional Information and Contacts

  1. Procedure Inquiries: Contact the Safety and Security Department at 417-447-6911.
  2. Media Inquiries: Contact the Chief of Staff at 417-447-2660.

Understanding Weather Alerts

  1. Tornado Watch: Issued when conditions are favorable for tornadoes within the next 12 hours.
  2. Tornado Warning: Issued when a tornado is indicated by radar or reported by spotters.

Critical Reminder: In a tornado threat, prioritize life safety over possessions. Quick action is crucial. Seek immediate shelter, preferably under sturdy furniture or in an interior hallway.

Updated: 3/06/2024