Student Handbook 2025-2026

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Emergency and Inclement Weather Procedures

Compliance with the following procedures will help to ensure maximum safety of students and visitors. Active and knowledgeable action in time of disaster, utilization of available facilities for safety and evacuation, and initiation of a system whereby all persons can be accounted for in case of a disaster is the best assurance of survival.

  1. Procedure for Fire Warning: The fire alarm is a constant horn that sounds regularly and flashes on every floor:
    • Close doors; exit the building using the closest stairwell and building exit;
    • Do not use elevators.
    • Gather at the designated meeting place in front of the Duncan-Taylor Garage for further instructions.
  2. Procedures for Fire Drills:
    • Regular fire drills are held with the date, time, and type of drill determined by the Barnes-Jewish Hospital Department of Environmental Health and Safety.
    • Follow the procedure for fire warning during a fire drill;
  3. Procedure for Tornado Warning: When the city issues a warning by activating the horn system or by the National Weather Service announcement:
    • Remain calm;
    • Go to the lowest possible level;
    • The Parkview and Plaza Auditoriums should be used during inclement weather since these rooms do not have windows;
    • When the "All Clear" is issued by the National Weather Service announcement, individuals may return to their activities;
    • Follow all directions provided by the BJH Public Safety officer or from College leadership;
  4. Procedure for Earthquake: In the event of an actual quake, there will be no time for an alarm:
    • During an earthquake:
      • Remain calm
        • If you are caught outside when the quake occurs, do not attempt to take refuge in or near a building or structure. Building entrances are especially hazardous due to falling objects. Avoid trees, power lines and utility poles, glass and other objects that could fall on you. If you’re able to, move to an open area away from all hazards.
      • If you are indoors when the quake starts, remain there and take shelter, unless ordered to evacuate.
      • Stay away from heavy furniture, appliances, large panes of glass, shelves holding heavy objects and masonry veneer. These items tend to fall or break and can injure you.
      • As quickly as possible, try to get under something sturdy such as a desk or a table to protect against falling objects. If the shaking causes the desk or table to move, be sure to move with it. If a table or desk is not available, go to an interior doorway, crouch down, and protect your head and neck. Avoid doorways encased by metal walls, as well as exterior walls, doors and windows. Remain in a protected place or position until the shaking stops. After the quake, remain in the same position for several minutes in case of aftershocks.
      • You should be aware of all possible ways to exit your floor in the event that an evacuation is necessary. At Barnes-Jewish Hospital and adjacent properties, evacuate horizontally. If horizontal evacuation is not an option, proceed vertically through the stairwell. Evacuation will be determined by specific events and assessments.
      • Do not utilize elevators.
    • After the Earthquake:
      • Be flexible concerning what to do and where to go in an emergency. Even the best laid plans may be subject to change during a natural disaster.
      • Be prepared for aftershocks and take cover if shaking begins again.
      • Check for injuries in your area and apply first aid. Do not move seriously injured individuals unless they are in immediate danger.
      • Facility Services will be checking and shutting off gas lines where ruptures have occurred. If you smell gas or suspect damage to gas lines, turn off the gas at the local shut-off valve if you are aware of its location. If you are unable to shut off the gas, contact Facility Services or Security and then evacuate the area.
      • Use flashlights instead of candles, as open flames could ignite leaking gas.
  5. Procedure for Disaster within Medical Center
    • When authorities have been notified of a disaster, the Command Center for the College is the Dean's Board Room. Faculty members will account for students in their classes. Faculty in clinical areas within the medical center account for themselves and their students and notify the Barnes-Jewish College Command Center. Clinical instructors and students remain in the clinical area and await further instructions.