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At Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU), the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff are of utmost importance. Our Emergency Preparedness Program ensures a proactive approach to handling unexpected situations, from natural disasters to health emergencies. We are committed to equipping our academic community with the tools, resources, and knowledge to navigate crises effectively while prioritizing safety and continuity. Together, we can create a safe and resilient academic community.
Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plan
PHSU’s emergency preparedness strategy is designed to mitigate risks, respond effectively, and recover efficiently. This plan is informed by local, national, and international standards, ensuring our protocols meet best practices in disaster management.
Key Components
Emergency Response Team
A dedicated team comprising security personnel, safety officers, and administrative leaders is established to coordinate responses during emergencies. Contact information for key ERT members is provided to ensure prompt communication.
Emergency Alert System
PHSU utilizes the ReGROUP emergency alert system to disseminate information rapidly. Notifications are delivered through multiple channels, including the PHSU telephone system, text messages (SMS), email, the PHSU homepage, and social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter.
Emergency Protocols
On-Campus Injuries
Immediate contact with campus security is required, who will then notify emergency medical personnel, the Vice President of Student Affairs (for student incidents), the Department of Human Resources (for employee incidents), the Compliance/Legal officer, and the Safety Officer.
Sexual Assault
Campus security should be contacted to coordinate with emergency medical services, the appropriate university officials, counseling staff, and, if necessary, local law enforcement.
Suicide or Death Incidents
Protocols involve contacting campus security, emergency medical personnel, local police, and relevant university departments to manage the situation and provide necessary support.
Severe Emotional Crisis/Attempted Suicide
Immediate notification of campus security is essential, followed by coordination with medical personnel, university officials, counseling services, and, if necessary, local law enforcement.
Bomb Threats
The university has established specific procedures for handling bomb threats, emphasizing the importance of reporting such incidents promptly. Detailed protocols are strategically placed in each department for quick reference.
Emergency Communication
The Crisis Communication and Media Alert Team is responsible for managing communications during emergencies, including updates on the PHSU website and sending detailed information via email and text messages to the university community.