Student Emergency and Safety Procedures

The best time to prepare for disasters is before they occur. Emergencies can arise at any time and from various natural or manmade causes. The best way to minimize the impact to you as a student from any emergency is to plan ahead. You can also learn more about RIT's approach to emergencies on campus by Safety & Security at RIT.

Steps you can take to be prepared

Know the exit routes from your residence halls, apartment or classroom buildings. Study these in advance. It is easy to get disoriented during an actual emergency.
Know the location of fire extinguishers and how to use them. Read the directions before an emergency. Report missing extinguishers immediately.
Make sure that RIT's Public Safety emergency number ( (585) 475-3333) is posted on your telephone.
Be alert and report any criminal incident, suspicious behavior or improper security activity to Public Safety.
Report any unsafe conditions to the Public Safety at (585) 475-3333/ V or TTY.
If your mobility is limited by wheelchair, crutches, etc., please notify Public Safety in advance that you may require assistance in an emergency.
Stay informed about developing emergency conditions through the Emergency Updates on this Emergency Preparedness website or through local radio/TV broadcasts.
You can further prepare by having a personal emergency kit assembled that includes a battery operated radio, a flashlight, bottled water and any medication you may need for several days time.

In case of an emergency

Follow emergency directions as given. Directions may come from your RA's, your housing staff or from your professors depending on the timing of the emergency.
Monitor the Emergency Updates section of this website for the most current emergency information and listen to radio/TV stations for emergency notifications.
Various other methods of communication may be used as the emergency develops including posted notices throughout campus and broadcast email messages to the RIT community.

If a Fire Occurs

Notify anyone in the immediate area of the emergency.
Activate the nearest fire alarm box as you evacuate your building.
Call Public Safety at (585) 475-3333 from any campus phone located at a position of safety.
If there is smoke or heat, stay low.
DO NOT USE ELEVATORS.
Before opening any door, using the back of your hand, test the door to see if it's hot.
- If it is hot, do not open, but:
  - Call Public Safety and tell them your exact location and situation.
  - Place a blanket or similar article along the bottom of your door to keep out smoke. If possible, wet the material first.
  - If you can open a window, hang a blanket or sheet to alert rescuers to your location.
- If the door is not hot:
  - Open the door cautiously--stand behind the door and be prepared to close it quickly if there is excessive smoke.
  - If safe to leave, do so closing doors behind you and assemble outside at a safe location away from the building.
  - Do not re-enter the building until notified.
  - If your mobility is limited by wheelchair, crutches, etc., call Public Safety, and wait for responding agencies. Identify your location.

Studying and Working Safely Overseas

Frequently Asked Questions