Weather Emergencies

Tornadoes are the most common weather emergency, but other natural disasters are possible. A tornado watch means conditions (high winds) are favorable for a tornado. A tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted. Students should be aware of all routes to the basements of campus facilities.

In the event of a tornado warning, emergency sirens in the City of Fulton will sound. When the warning is given, proceed without delay to a sound structure, preferably the basement of the building. Seek shelter along inside halls, away from windows. Avoid auditoriums or other portions of buildings that do not have well-supported roofs. Individuals who cannot get into a building should lie flat in the nearest depression, ditch, or ravine. If movement is necessary, it should be at right angles to the tornado’s path, which is usually moving from the southwest. If time permits, and if available, students should take a pillow or similar item to cover their head.

Residence hall staff should serve as monitors to ensure that all students are out of the primary danger areas, which are those floors above ground level. Additional information regarding emergency procedures can be found on the website under Campus Safety.

In the event of a tornado warning, persons in the Equestrian Center should proceed, time permitting, to the basement of the Academic Building or the Library. If time does not permit, the following procedure should be taken: Proceed to the inner offices at the main arena. Individuals in the Western Barn and Dressage Barn should proceed to the tack room and individuals in the classroom should proceed to the inner hallway to the north of the classroom.