No one knows if or when a disaster might disrupt campus operations. Recognizing the need to be prepared for any disaster--whether illness, blizzard, violent crime or another scenario--Appalachian is always expanding and improving its campus-wide Emergency Operations Plan.

 

University leaders have taken steps to protect the safety and welfare of our students, faculty,  staff, and campus visitors. They also have developed guidelines addressing the continuation of campus services should a disruption of services occur.

 

This website is the place to go for University emergency plans, information, and resources. If an emergency is declared, visit www.appstatealert.com for up-to-date, credible information on the nature of the emergency, the University's response, and, if necessary, instructions for members of the on-campus community.

 

In addition to familiarizing yourself with the overall emergency plan, each department on campus should have its own departmental plan identifying essential services that must be provided for the operation of campus and continuation of essential services. Employees should also be cross-trained wherever possible to ensure much-needed campus services are uninterrupted.

 

In addition, we each have a responsibility to be prepared for emergencies, whether it is a blizzard that disrupts transportation and other county services or an illness that could affect a large percentage of our students and employees. Parents and their students should have a family contact plan determined in advance that ensures students know how to contact parents in an emergency and parents have a means to contact their students.

 

Be assured that the safety of our campus and our community is of utmost importance, and that we continually review our policies and procedures to determine where steps might be taken to improve or strengthen what is in place. While it is beyond our power to completely insulate the campus community from violence, illness or natural disaster, it is crucial that Appalachian plan for and react to such situations as effectively as possible.