Note: The following information is an executive summary of the University's Emergency Operations Plan.
The University's Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) is the administration's procedural guide for responding to potential (or developing) emergencies in a timely, appropriate and methodical manner.
The EOP may be implemented by the Emergency Operations Team (EOT) any time there is a disruption of routine institutional operations or a potential danger to the University community exists. The EOP is not intended to be an all-inclusive, comprehensive set of directives, but rather an organized series of guidelines that may be used in a variety of crisis management situations.
In all emergency situations, the Emergency Operations Team's highest priority is the safety and security of all University community members. Although protection of campus buildings, facilities and property is an important consideration, the administration's commitment is to first provide for the well being of students, faculty and staff.
For more information on specific emergency plans, select one of the links below.
Declaration of Emergency
If an unexpected, time-sensitive emergency occurs (e.g., fire, accident), the event should be reported immediately (x 7777 or (813) 257-7777) to Campus Safety. Officers are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout the year.
In potential (or developing) emergencies (e.g., hurricane, tornado), any member of the Emergency Operations Team may be contacted. The University president or the senior administrator in charge will assess the severity of the situation and determine if the Emergency Operations Team should assemble. A state of emergency may be declared when:
- University community members may be in danger (e.g., flooding, fire).
- A potentially threatening situation is developing (e.g., a hurricane is forming).
- There may be a disruption of routine institutional operations (e.g., loss of life).
- Damage has occurred in areas adjacent to the campus (e.g., explosion, tornado).
- Requested by governmental/emergency agencies (e.g., toxic fumes, bomb threat).
- Deemed appropriate due to any unusual or threatening circumstances.
Communications
The Emergency Operations Team will announce closings and other weather-related communications via global emails, www.ut.edu, text messaging and other forms of emergency communication.
The University offers a free emergency text messaging service to students, faculty and staff. This optional service will only be used in campus emergency situations. Students, faculty and staff can sign up for SMART-Spartan Mobile Alert through MyUTampa. Go to SMART frequently asked questions for more details.
In case of an evacuation, the UT phone message system and website will be maintained at remote locations. Information can be obtained by calling UT’s toll-free number 1-888-646-2738 or by visiting www.ut.edu. Please remember to use these important resources for updated information.
Emergency Operations Team (EOT)
If a state of emergency is declared, the Emergency Operations Team core members will be contacted and will assemble to assess the situation and if necessary, begin implementing the UT Emergency Operations Plan.