Emergency Evacuation Procedures for Persons with Disabilities

Persons with disabilities are expected to evacuate the building in an emergency situation with everyone else and may require assistance in the event of an emergency.

If the person is visually impaired, he/she will likely need to be escorted out of the building.

If the person is hearing impaired, students, faculty, and staff members should make sure that the hearing-impaired person knows that there is an emergency and that he/she should follow everyone out of the building.

If mobility impairments preclude the person with disabilities from evacuating the building, he/she may remain in the building during an emergency situation, but should move (or be moved) to the nearest stairwell and await assistance from emergency personnel. In this situation, it is the responsibility of every member of the University community (faculty/staff/student) to immediately notify first responders of the location of the person who was unable to exit the building.

Through brief communication and asking questions, evacuation can be quick and safe. Always ask an individual how you can help before attempting any rescue technique or giving assistance.

If you have any questions or concerns about this policy, please contact the Office of Accessibility Services at oas@lourdes.edu or 419-824-3523 or the Director of Campus Public Safety at 419-517-8953.

Emergencies should be directed to the 24 hour Campus Public Safety line at 419-574-3861.