OCCC will stage an emergency shelter-in-place drill at 10:40 a.m. Friday, Nov. 30, Police Chief James Fitzpatrick said in an email to all students.

“The Emergency Planning and Risk Management Department and the Campus Police Department urge all patrons and staff on campus to participate and cooperate to the best of their ability during the drill,” he said in the email. “The drill is utilized to train and to re-evaluate shelter-in-place plans. This is about keeping you safe.”

According to OCCC’s website, when a disturbance occurs, security should be notified immediately by pushing the emergency button located near the screen on campus phones.

If the person making the disturbance is armed, Fitzpatrick advises hiding in the nearest room, closing and locking all doors, silencing cell phones, turning off lights, shutting blinds, avoiding open areas, and taking shelter under desks and tables.

“The purpose is to make the room look empty,” Fitzpatrick said. “Most people will be looking for activity.”

He said those who are closer to an exit than a place to hide should exit.

“If you can get out, get out. Look for daylight and go.”

Fitzpatrick said, during the drill, after the “All Clear” is given at 10:50 a.m., 11 a.m. classes should begin as scheduled.

According to his email, students, staff and faculty can read Policy 3048 section 9.0 or contact Emergency Planning and Risk Management, Campus Police, instructors, supervisors, or Student Services for more information about the drill.

A video also is available on YouTube titled “Run. Hide. Fight. Surviving an Active Shooter Event” that provides helpful tips.

To contact Chris James, email pioneerphotog@occc.edu.