Emergency Procedures

Reporting Suspicious Activity Your vigilance is crucial in maintaining a secure and safe environment. Report any suspicious persons, behaviours, or activities immediately:

• Ottawa Campus: Extension “5000” or 911.
• Pembroke Campus: Extension “2739” during business hours, or 911 otherwise.
• Perth Campus: Extension “0” during business hours, or 911 otherwise.

Stay Informed and Prepared For a comprehensive review of all emergency procedures, please visit our Emergency Procedures Website or download the AC Mobile Safety App. The app not only provides detailed emergency information but also sends push notifications in real time during critical incidents. Ensure your notifications are turned on and set according to the campus(es) you frequent.

Your safety is our priority. Let’s all commit to being informed and prepared, not just this week but throughout the year. Stay tuned for more topics as the week progresses.

As part of our ongoing Emergency Preparedness Week, today we focus on how to effectively respond to medical emergencies on campus. Medical emergencies can happen anywhere, from classrooms to public areas, and being prepared is crucial.

Medical Emergencies By the Numbers From April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, our Ottawa Security Services responded to 456 medical calls. These incidents ranged from minor injuries in kitchens and workshops to severe medical situations like cardiac events. Your quick and informed response can make a significant difference in outcomes.

Steps to Take During a Medical Emergency:

1. CALL for Help
   • Ottawa Campus: Dial extension “5000” or 911.
   • Pembroke Campus: Dial 911.
   • Perth Campus: Dial 911. Describe the nature of the emergency and provide your exact location.
2. STAY ON THE PHONE until the operator tells you it’s okay to hang up. They may provide critical instructions.
3. REQUEST ASSISTANCE from people nearby to help manage the situation until emergency services arrive.
4. MAKE ROOM around the person in need to ensure they have space and air.
5. Apply First Aid/CPR if you are trained, and continue until professional help arrives.

Our security staff are trained in First Aid and CPR and will assist in initiating emergency services as needed.

Be Prepared Knowing what to do in a medical emergency saves lives. Familiarize yourself with the locations of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on campus.  They are listed on the Emergency Procedures Website.  Consider taking a First Aid/CPR course.  Being prepared is not just about knowing the steps but being ready to act effectively and efficiently.

Stay Informed For a comprehensive review of all emergency procedures, please visit our Emergency Procedures Website or download the AC Mobile Safety App. The app not only provides detailed emergency information but also sends push notifications in real time during critical incidents. Ensure your notifications are turned on and set according to the campus(es) you frequent.

Thank you for your attention to this critical aspect of our safety initiatives. Let’s continue to support each other in maintaining a safe and responsive campus environment.

Fire safety is a top priority at Algonquin College, and knowing how to respond in the event of a fire is crucial. As part of our Emergency Preparedness Week, we’re focusing on fire safety procedures to ensure everyone’s safety in case of a fire emergency.

Upon Discovery of Fire: Remain Calm and Act Swiftly

• ACTIVATE the nearest fire alarm pull station.
• CALL for help from a safe location:
  • Ottawa Campus: Dial extension “5000” or 911.
  • Pembroke Campus: Dial 911.
  • Perth Campus: Dial 911.
• CLOSE any doors/windows to the fire-affected area, if it is safe to do so.
• LEAVE immediately using the nearest safe exit.

If You Hear the Fire Alarm Sound: Evacuate Immediately

• Leave the building immediately. Ensure persons with disabilities are assisted, as required. Ensure class or group members evacuate the building.
• Persons with disabilities who are unable to leave the building shall proceed to the nearest collection point or nearest safe exit and wait for assistance from the Fire Department or emergency personnel. For more information about evacuation procedures for persons with disabilities please visit our webpage Persons with Disabilities – Evacuation Information
• DO NOT enter or return to the building until approved by emergency personnel and the “All Clear” is heard from the Emergency Broadcast Speakers.

Be Prepared

Familiarize yourself with the nearest fire exits and evacuation routes in your area. Your safety is our utmost priority, and your cooperation in following these procedures is essential. Let’s work together to maintain a safe environment for everyone at Algonquin College.

Stay Informed For a comprehensive review of all emergency procedures, please visit our Emergency Procedures Website or download the AC Mobile Safety App. The app not only provides detailed emergency information but also sends push notifications in real time during critical incidents. Ensure your notifications are turned on and set according to the campus(es) you frequent.

Algonquin College campuses across Ontario and their surrounding regions often experience diverse weather conditions. Over recent years, we’ve encountered floods, tornadoes, high winds, and heavy snowfall. It’s crucial to be ready for various weather-related emergencies. As part of our dedication to your safety, we aim to ensure everyone is well-informed and equipped for such situations. Please acquaint yourself with the recommended actions before, during, and after weather-related emergencies.

Before the Storm: Be Prepared

1. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and alerts from local authorities and Environment Canada. Follow updates from reliable sources to stay informed about potential hazards.
2. Emergency Kit: Ensure you have a well-stocked emergency kit at home with essentials such as food, water, flashlights, batteries, and blankets.
3. Travel Plans: If severe weather is forecasted, consider adjusting your travel plans accordingly. Avoid unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions.
4. Campus Closure Policy: Be aware of the college’s policy HS-07 Emergency Campus Closures and Class Cancellations regarding campus closure or class cancellations due to weather conditions. The safety of our community is our top priority, and decisions will be made accordingly. The college will notify the college community of any updates or closures.

During the Storm: Stay Safe

1. Follow Local Authorities: Adhere to the guidance and instructions provided by local authorities and Environment Canada. If advised to stay indoors, do so until it is safe to venture outside.
2. Stay Indoors: Seek shelter indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions. Keep windows and doors closed to maintain warmth.
3. Communication: Stay connected with friends, family, and the college through reliable communication channels. Notify others of your safety status if needed.

After the Storm: Assess and Assist

1. Check for Damage: Once the storm has passed, assess your surroundings for any damage or hazards. Avoid downed power lines and report any unsafe conditions to the appropriate authorities.
2. Assist Others: Check on neighbours, especially the elderly or those with special needs, to ensure their safety. Offer assistance if needed and share resources within the community.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

Remember to stay informed and prepared for weather-related emergencies. The college will prioritize your safety and well-being, following established policies and procedures during such events.

For more information about being prepared at home, you can visit the Government of Canada’s Get Prepared website or the Government of Ontario Emergency Management website.

We want to emphasize the importance of being prepared not only on campus but also in your home environment. We encourage everyone to take the necessary steps to create a Personal Preparedness Kit for your home, whether you reside in college residence or off-campus housing.

Why Create a Personal Preparedness Kit?

Emergencies can happen anywhere, and having essential supplies readily available can make a significant difference in your ability to respond effectively. Your home emergency kit should contain items that will sustain you and your household members for at least 72 hours in case of evacuation or loss of services.

What to Include in Your Kit:

1. Water: Two litres of water per person per day
2. Non-perishable Food: Food that won’t spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods (replace once a year)
3. First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, pain relievers, etc.
4. Wind-up or Battery Powered Flashlight: Ensure you have a reliable light source in case of power outages.
5. Wind-up or Battery Powered Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed of emergency updates.
6. Important Documents: Copies of identification, insurance policies, and emergency contact information stored in a waterproof container.
7. Extra Clothing and Blankets: Warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and blankets to keep you comfortable.
8. Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, and personal hygiene supplies.
9. Cash: Small denominations of cash in case ATMs are inaccessible during emergencies.
10. Special Needs Items: Items such as medicine, prescriptions, baby supplies, pet food or medical equipment specific to your household needs.

Stay Informed and Ready

Regularly review and update your emergency kit to ensure supplies are fresh and in good condition. Keep your kit in a designated, easily accessible location that all household members are aware of.

By taking the time to prepare now, you can minimize stress and uncertainty during emergencies and focus on keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.

For more information about being prepared at home, you can visit the Government of Canada’s Get Prepared website or the Government of Ontario Emergency Management website.