Texas Tech University

Emergency Procedures

Weather

  • The National Weather Service will issue severe weather watches and warnings. 
  • The City of Lubbock has an outdoor warning system that will be sounded when a tornado warning is issued.
  • Tornado warnings will also be delivered on enabled mobile devices from the National Weather Service and TechAlert.
  • Seek shelter in the lowest area possible in the building. Close all doors behind you. Stay away from doors, windows, and outside walls.

Fire

  • Pull the fire alarm and dial 9-1-1 if you see smoke or fire.
  • When horns and strobes are sounded, all occupants must evacuate, EACH AND EVERY TIME.
  • Leave the building using exits or stairs. DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS.
  • Maps with exits and stairwells are available in each building's Emergency Action Plan.

Medical

  • Dial 9-1-1 for any medical emergency. Provide building name, address, room number, and call back number. Follow the dispatcher's instructions.
  • Over-the-counter opioid overdose treatment is available on campus, including through the Texas Tech Police Department and University Student Housing.
  • If someone suddenly falls to the ground, is unresponsive, and is not breathing, perform Hands-Only CPR. Instruct someone to dial 9-1-1 and locate the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED).
  • Continue CPR and/or AED until paramedics arrive.

Power

  • A power outage may occur due to mechanical malfunction or severe weather.
  • Emergency lighting may be available.
  • Utilize flashlights and follow instructions.

Violence/Active Shooter

  • When a violent event occurs but is not directed at you, do not interfere, and immediately dial 9-1-1.
  • Follow police orders and instructions provided via TechAlert.
  • If under attack, follow Active Shooter Protocol AVOID. DENY. DEFEND.
    • AVOID. - Create distance between you and the threat.
    • DENY. - Barricade or block entry.
    • DEFEND. - Be prepared to defend yourself.

Suspicious Item

  • If you see or receive a suspicious package, leave it where it was found and dial 9-1-1. Do not disturb or try to conduct any cleanup. Keep the immediate area clear of others.
  • Instruct people who have touched the package to wash their hands with soap and water.
  • Follow the first responder's instructions.

Hazardous Materials

  • Avoid contact with the substance, including breathing in vapors, when a suspected hazardous materials spill occurs.
  • Dial 9-1-1. Alert people in the area to evacuate to a safe location.
  • Turn off ignition sources if you can safely do so.
  • Follow directions from first responders and alerts from TechAlert.

Bomb Threat

  • If you receive a bomb threat, immediately have someone dial 9-1-1 and notify your supervisor. Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. DO NOT HANG UP.
  • Write down or record as much information as possible.
  • Follow police directions and notifications issued by TechAlert.
  • View the bomb threat checklist.


People with Disabilities Information

  • If you cannot evacuate the building, go to the nearest fire-rated stairwell. Emergency responders will evacuate you from these areas.
  • Ensure you know where the building's fire-rated stairwells are located and how to get to them. Tell first responders what stairwell you are in.
  • Maps with exits and stairwells are available in each building's Emergency Action Plan.
  • Ask others to help you evacuate if needed.

Important Phone Numbers & Websites

Emergency Management