Emergency Protocols and Preparedness Plans

For crime in progress, fire, or medical emergency:

Emergency Preparedness for the Off-Campus Student

1. Who is Responsible for providing emergency shelter, food etc. in a crisis?
2. What emergency supplies should I collect and store in the event of an emergency?
3. How will I be informed of an Emergency?
4. What if I have to leave my home? Where do I find public shelters?
5. What resources will I find at a shelter? What do I need to bring with me?
6. What NOT to bring to a shelter
7. What are other options if I choose not to go to a shelter?

Who is Responsible for providing emergency shelter, food etc. in a crisis?
Emergency preparedness for the on-campus resident student is usually managed by the university. During a crisis when normal campus living activities are disrupted the institution typically provides shelter, food, and sanitation facilities etc. to those who live on campus. For those of us who reside off-campus the responsibility for our basic needs rests with ourselves and the city or towns we live in.

What emergency supplies should I collect and store in the event of an emergency?
FEMA, the Federal Emergency management Agency, recommends storing and maintaining the following basic supplies for every household:

If you live in a cold climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that you will not have heat. Think about your clothing and bedding supplies. Be sure to include one complete change of clothing and shoes per person, including:

Jacket or coat.

• Long pants.
• Long sleeve shirt.
• Sturdy shoes.
• Hat, mittens, and scarf.
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket (per person).

How will I be informed of an Emergency?
Almost every local television and radio station provides emergency information when the need arises. For our area, the following media outlets provide up to date information ranging from weather advisories to emergency shelter locations.

What if I have to leave my home? Where do I find public shelters?
In Maine, each community is responsible for establishing shelters for its residents and visitors. Usually, the Red Cross staff’s and maintains the shelter. During a crisis, local television and radio stations will announce the location of shelters (see above). Typically, these include schools or other public buildings.
 
What resources will I find at a shelter? What do I need to bring with me?

• A shelter will not provide the comforts of a hotel or motel.
• The shelter is not a medical shelter; only basic first aid will be available. 
• The Red Cross does not accept responsibility for storing valuable personal property. 
• Parents are required to be in control of their children at all times.
• Evacuees needing medical assistance of personal attendants can not be left unattended. 
• Shelters are equipped with generators, but they may or may not be air-conditioned. If electrical power is interrupted, portable generators will not be able to keep air conditioners running.

What to Bring

To make your stay at the shelter more comfortable, evacuees should bring:

• personal hygiene items  
• beddings such as cots, air mattresses, blankets and pillows for their own use (none will be provided) 
• non-perishable snacks and personal meals 
• extra change of clothing 
• personal items (medications, eyeglasses, hearing aid, flashlights, toothbrushes, battery-operated radio, special diet foods, if appropriate) 
• baby supplies: ample amounts of baby food, formula, juice, diapers and wipes, and a stroller, portable crib or play pen 
• driver's license, other identification 
• cash, traveler's checks 
• important documents

Before Leaving Your Home

• Have a good meal. 
• Turn off electricity at the fuse box (to prevent possible fire). 
• Turn off water at the outside line. 
• Turn off gas for gas water heaters (to prevent possible fire).

What NOT to Bring
The following are not permitted in the shelter:

• Pets of any type are not allowed in Red Cross shelters. (The only exception is a Pet Friendly Shelter.)
• Firearms or explosive devices 
• Intoxicating or alcoholic beverages 
• Illegal drugs

How to Check In
All evacuees must register at the time they enter the shelter. The head of the family may register for all.

What are other options if I choose not to go to a shelter?
There are options however bear in mind that unlike a public shelter staying at a hotel will be at your own expense. There are numerous motels and hotels in York and Cumberland County, we’ve listed a few for you.  Make sure to call ahead to insure sure they have power, running water and food is available.

Portland, Biddeford Area Hotels/Motels (Portland Area listed first)

  
Biddeford Area Hotels/Motels