Utility Failure

Utility failures can be caused by a wide variety of events. If you are involved in an emergency which triggers the utility failure, flip to the tab for the emergency you are dealing with for more specific guidelines.

Only personnel specifically trained in emergency shut-off procedures should attempt to turn on or shut off local and/or main utility lines to a campus building.

Action Guidelines

Electrical/Light Failure:

  • Call your campus Facilities Work Control.
  • Provide assistance to others who may be unfamiliar with the space.
  • Do not use candles or other type of open flame for lighting.
  • Do not leave class or work unless told to do so by an authorized person.
  • Proceed cautiously outdoors or to an area that has emergency lighting.
  • In most cases, power will be restored shortly or you may be relocated to another area with power.


Elevator Failure:

  • Activate the emergency button/telephone.
  • Call your campus emergency phone number if you do not get a response from the emergency button/telephone.
  • Do not attempt to evacuate the elevator or help others evacuate.
  • Do not pry open elevator doors or climb through the elevator roof escape hatch.


Gas Leak:

  • Stop whatever you are doing.
  • Do not turn on lights or any electrical equipment.
  • Keep a safe distance from the leak. A distance of at least 300 feet is recommended.
  • Call 911.


Water Leak/Flooding:

  • Stop whatever you are doing.
  • Do not turn on lights or any electrical equipment.
  • Call your campus Facilities Work Control.
  • If you can do so safely, turn the local water source off.
  • If you can do so safely, cover or move objects that could be damaged by water.
  • Evacuate the area.


Water Supply Failure:

  • Call your campus Facilities Work Control.
  • Do not consume tap water until told it is safe to do so by authorized personnel.
EMERGENCY GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS: 

Emergency Guide Home
CRITICAL INFORMATION: 
Reporting an Emergency Evacuation
Important Phone Numbers Shelter-In-Place
Emergency Notification Individuals with Disabilities
SPECIFIC ACTION GUIDELINES: 
Active Shooter/Armed Intruder Hurricane
Bomb Threat Medical
Concerning Behavior Suspicious Activity
Explosion Utility Failure
Fire Weather
Hazardous Materials
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: 
Crime Prevention Personal Preparedness