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Emergency Weather Procedures

The best time to prepare for an emergency is before it happens.  Below, you'll find some helpful information  on what to do when unexpected weather arises. 

Tornado Safety Guidelines

Terms to know

Tornado Watch - Tornadoes are possible and conditions are favorable for their development. Stay tuned to radio or TV stations for watch alerts.

Tornado Warning - A tornado has been sighted or detected by weather radar. You should take shelter immediately.  

Severe Weather Alert Notifications

Mass Notification

A message will be sent to the campus community via text, email, or phone call. Keep cell phones charged and with you at all times if there is a severe weather alert. Student can update their mass notification contact information in the registrar’s office for students and employees can do so in the Office of People and Culture.

Emergency Siren

The emergency siren is only activated by the city of Decatur when the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning for the area. If the siren is activated, please take the following actions immediately to protect yourself and others:

  • If you are in a residence hall, academic building, or nearby apartments or homes: go to a central area on the lowest level.  Stay away from windows.
  • If you are in a car: stop, get out and go to the storm shelter or lowest level in a nearby building.
  • If you are outside or in an open space: Lie flat in a ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Do not seek shelter under an overpass or bridge.
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