Evacuation Chairs Australia

As Florida recovers from Hurricane Frances, it’s tempting for those here at San Diego State University to relax and be thankful that this region doesn’t face such regular threats of disaster.

The only problem is, San Diego does face constant threats, said University Police Captain Steve Williams, who coordinates the campus’ Emergency Planning Team (EPT). What’s worse, he added, is we can’t see them coming.

“Things like hurricanes and tornadoes can be anticipated and forecast, but the threats we have here in California – earthquakes, fires, even terrorism – are spontaneous and don’t give us the opportunity to take last-minute steps to become prepared,” Williams said. “That’s why it’s critical for everyone on this campus to be ready and know what to do in a crisis. The start of the fall semester is a perfect time for everyone to consider this issue and familiarize themselves with our plans and resources.”

To maximize the university’s readiness for large-scale emergencies, SDSU has developed a comprehensive emergency plan lauded as a national model by the federal Department of Homeland Security. The plan is regularly tested and improved through evaluations, tabletop exercises and evacuation drills.

The campus has also enhanced its readiness through the addition of new emergency resources. Last year, SDSU installed an automated “reverse 911” phone system that will accelerate the notification of campus personnel whether they are on or off-campus. Evacuation chairs – used to help move disabled persons down stairs – are now placed in the Cuicacalli dining complex (for use in nearby residence halls) and in the SDSU Library.

SDSU also procured additional caches of emergency supplies around campus. SDSU's web home page is formatted to publicly communicate critical information during disasters.

Pictured: Steve Williams, coordinator of the Emergency Planning Team, with President Stephen Weber