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Crisis Team Reviews, Prepares University Emergency Plans
By Michelle Nery
Since the tragic events of Sept. 11, the universityís Crisis Management Team
has expanded its role to address new emergency scenarios and added representatives
from several offices within the university, tripling its size. Chaired by Chief
of Staff Tom Hennessey, the team consists of a Crisis Planning Committee, chaired
by Keith Bushey, Safety Office assistant vice president, and a Crisis Communications
Committee, chaired by Helen Ackerman, University Relations vice president.
The team is examining how the university handles such events as terrorist attacks
and the recent anthrax scares and is researching ways the university can prepare
for other such emergencies. In addition, existing emergency action plans are being
reviewed for possible expansion or modification, a crisis communication plan is
being prepared, and tactics for disseminating information are being discussed.
A modification of the universityís phone lines and voice mail system is planned
to ensure that a surge of calls wonít interrupt service.
Safety Office staff has also continued to work with individual offices and
supervisors on matters of specific interest, including establishing building evacuation
procedures, fire extinguisher training, and mail handling. Some of the changes
around campus include new building addresses and address signs posted at all pay
phones, which will assist police, fire, and rescue personnel in locating emergencies
on campus.
The current emergency action plans for bomb threats, fires, medical emergencies,
hazardous materials, utility failures, and severe weather can be viewed online
at www.gmu.edu/safety. Ongoing updates
regarding Sept. 11 and emergency contact information are available at www.gmu.edu/sept11.
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