Severe weather: winter storm (snow and ice)

During a winter storm

• Should conditions worsen during the day, the administration may decide to cancel classes early. When such determination is made, you will be notified via media outlets, the university's website, weather phone line and New York Alert.
• If roads leading to your home have been closed, do not attempt to travel home.

Shelter-in-place

The term shelter-in-place means to seek immediate shelter and remain there during an emergency rather than evacuate the area. It is always preferred to evacuate. Shelter-in-place should only be used when an evacuation is not safe. In-place sheltering usually last no more that a few minutes to a few hours and preparations, made in advance, can ensure that the event is as comfortable as possible. Each department should determine its sheltering location prior to an incident occurring. The preferred Shelter-in-place location would be an interior room or hallway, with limited or no windows.  The location would have access to restroom facilities as well as drinking water.

Shelter-in-place (weather) recommendations

There may be situations when it is best to stay where you are to avoid any uncertainty outside. There are other circumstances, such as during a tornado or a chemical incident when specifically how and where you take shelter is a matter of survival.

Determine where you will take shelter if instructed to do so.

1. Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection.
2. If underground shelter is not available (or not advisable due to the situation), go into an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor ossible.
3. In a high-rise building; go to an interior stairwell, small interior room, or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
4. Go on the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they attract debris.
5. Stay in the shelter location until the danger has passed.