Procedures During a Tornado or Severe Weather

  1. Immediate Action: Upon severe weather or tornado alerts, all staff, students, and visitors on OTC Campuses and Education Centers must immediately seek a safe area.
  2. Notification: The OTC Campus Alert System informs individuals inside buildings via the Campus Alert Phone System and emergency sirens, which can also be heard outdoors. Furthermore, the college may issue text and email notifications and employ additional external channels such as social media.
  3. Fire Alarms: Fire alarms will not be used for these alerts to prevent evacuation of buildings.

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 Phone System fails, alternatives like bullhorns, runners, or social media will be used.
  3. Telephone Usage: Minimize telephone use in case of property damage or injury to prevent overwhelming the system.

Additional Information and Contacts

  1. Procedure Inquiries: Contact the Safety and Security Director at 417-447-6911.
  2. Damage or Injury Inquiries: Contact the Public Information Office at 417-447-2655.

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