Evacuation of the University, if necessary, will generally fall into two categories:
- Limited or partial evacuation: A building or buildings may be evacuated for a specific period of time (for example, a fire alarm).
- General evacuation: The entire campus is evacuated for an indefinite period of time.
It is very important, regardless of the type or duration of an evacuation, that everyone listens carefully to official information and evacuation orders issued from University administration, the Tampa Police Department, the Tampa Fire Department and Campus Safety.
General Guidelines
- Plan ahead. Know evacuation routes from your room or office and campus.
- If the building fire alarm is activated, leave without delay.
- Remain calm and listen for specific evacuation instructions.
- Do not return for personal items. Take everything you need when you leave.
- Walk, do not run. Once outside the building, move away from the exits.
- Do not go into restrooms.
- Do not use elevators.
- Direct visitors or anyone needing assistance to the stairwell.
- It is imperative that you check in with your supervisor or other department personnel, so everyone can be accounted for.
- An evacuation could last from a few minutes to several days.
- Make sure you have personal and University identification with you.
In the Event of an Authorized General Evacuation
- Faculty, staff and campus guests should leave campus and return home or to another safe and appropriate destination unless told otherwise. Before you leave, secure your work area by following the office preparation checklist.
- Students who can provide their own transportation should leave campus and return to their homes or other safe and appropriate destination unless told otherwise. Be sure to sign out with your RA or fill out the online form.
- Residential students who cannot provide their own transportation should wait for an update from Residence Life.
- As soon as possible, all students should:
- Make plans for evacuations. Where will you go? How will you get there? What is the phone number? Be sure to share this information.
- Keep motor vehicles fueled whenever there is a warning that a severe storm may come into the area.
- Be certain that fresh batteries are in radios and flashlights.
- Try to carpool as much as possible to a spot inland or to our Hillsborough County emergency shelter.
- View the student checklist for severe weather tips, information on what to do before leaving campus and at the shelter.
- If going to the Hillsborough County shelter:
- Take only bedding and personal hygiene items, plus any medications or food. Non-perishable food items and water may also be taken. Alcoholic beverages and pets are not permitted in public shelters.
- Bring cards, games, etc., to the shelter to keep your mind and hands occupied.
- Do not return to campus after an evacuation until an announcement is made through the media, that campus is open.