September is National Preparedness Month, but at Clemson, Emergency Management is focused year-round on making sure the University is prepared for a variety of potential emergencies.
As the Emergency Management coordinator for training, Matt Rall of Clemson University Public Safety coordinates emergency preparedness training and exercises for faculty, staff, students and external partners.
“We take an all-hazards approach looking at every probable hazard, whether it be natural, technological or manmade that may negatively affect Clemson University,” Rall said.
A crucial step in emergency planning is communication. Emergency notification tools like CU Safe Alerts allow people to go about their daily lives while still being informed of emergency situations through texts, email and social media (@Clemsonsafety) notifications, which work in conjunction with the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS). There are also several personal safety tools to help individuals in emergency situations.
“The Rave Guardian App is an extremely useful tool to have for personal safety to help make sure you are never truly alone on campus by having safety resources a few clicks away. On-campus AED (automated external defibrillator) locations can also be found on the PulsePoint mobile app to assist those who go into cardiac arrest,” Rall said.
The University also offers safety and preparedness educational opportunities. The Clemson University Police and Fire Safety departments hold training and personal safety classes such as “Active Threat” and “Stop the Bleed” throughout the year. The Public Safety Academy is a free class for participants to learn about the issues impacting public safety efforts in the community.
“Preparedness is a shared responsibility between individuals, businesses and the government. Doing small things like having a preparedness plan and kit can help keep you and your family safe during emergencies and allow responders to focus on those people and areas hit hardest,” Rall said.
“Being prepared means being able to use your plan to take protective action when emergency strikes. All protective steps of any plan should consider all members of your household and should apply when you and your family are at school or work.”