Emergency Preparedness

The BID supports emergency preparedness and manages comprehensive public–private partnerships, including assisting property owners with developing emergency operations plans, employee preparedness and continuity of operations planning. We also develop and coordinate drills, provide training, and facilitate tabletop exercises to create a safer downtown experience.

Guidance for specific hazards

In the unlikely event of an emergency, follow the directions given by your building security or other public safety officials. However, it is always best to be prepared, and the following list of general protocols can be used for a number of potential emergency situations.  For more information on what to do before, during and after emergencies visit www.ready.gov/be-informed.

Medical Emergencies

Your building may have specific procedures for contacting emergency services. Know how to:

• Call 9-1-1 and alert building security or other designated officials.
• Locate first aid supplies and the automated external defibrillator (AED).
• Identify who is trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid.
• Provide emergency contact information to first responders.

Power Outage or Blackout

• If possible, remain at your workplace. Do not leave unless you have a way to get home.
• Follow guidance from supervisors for information on office closures.
• If traffic lights, trains, and other transit systems are without power, expect extended delays.

Severe Weather – Snow

• Check the National Weather Service for storm advisories, watches, and warnings.
• Only drive if necessary. Allow for extra time, and make sure you have a full tank of gas.
• Keep blankets, a shovel, and emergency supplies in your car in case you become stranded.

Severe Weather – Hurricane

• Check the National Weather Service for storm advisories, watches, and warnings.
• Before you leave your office, take the items you will need to telework.
• Follow evacuation orders that are issued and do not return to the affected area until advised that it is safe to do so.

Severe Weather – Tornado

• Take shelter immediately.
• Move to an interior room away from windows.
• If you are driving, do not attempt to outrun the tornado.  Pull over and seek shelter. 
• If you are outside and unable to take shelter inside a structure, lay down in a ditch or low area.

Earthquake

If you are inside:

• Drop to the floor.
• Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture.
• Hold on until the shaking stops.

If you are outside:

• Stay outside and away from buildings or structures that could collapse or generate falling debris.
• Do not re-enter the building until advised to.

Bomb Threat (via telephone)

• Write down exact wording of threat.
• If available, follow the directions on your “bomb threat” reference card.
• Immediately notify building security.
• Follow instructions from building management and/or security.

Workplace Violence

If there is an active shooter:

• Evacuate the building, leave your belongings, and keep hands visible.
• Otherwise, hide out of view and block entry to your hiding place.
• Take action as a last resort to attempt to incapacitate the shooter.

Chemical Release Outside

• Take shelter inside immediately (many chemicals are colorless and odorless).
• If you were directly exposed to chemicals, remove and discard clothing.
• Remain sheltered until additional information is available.
• Follow guidance from officials on seeking medical treatment. If you do not believe you have been exposed, let first responders treat the critically injured first.

Nuclear or Radiological

• Remember these three factors: time, distance, and shielding.
• Try to decrease the time you are exposed to radiation, increase your distance from the contaminated area, and increase the shielding between yourself and any radiation.
• Attempt to cover your body and exposed skin with any available materials.
• Take shelter in an interior room immediately.
• Discard contaminated clothing and shower as soon as possible.