Emergency Procedures
Natural Disaster
When severe weather conditions become apparent, the U.S. Weather Bureau describes conditions by two (2) classifications, a Watch or a Warning. This applies to the reporting of severe thunderstorms, the approach of weather conditions favoring the formation of tornadoes, a hurricane condition, a winter storm condition, etc. A Watch becomes effective when atmospheric conditions are present that can produce the particular weather phenomenon. A Warning means that the weather condition has been spotted and prompt action must be taken to enhance safety.
Except in very rare circumstances, the decision to evacuate the building based on the above weather reports will not be made by Building Management, but rather by each Tenant Company. However, in the event these conditions do exist, the following guidelines should adhered to:
- Move away from outside windows. If the windows in your offices are supplied with blinds, close the blinds (this will provide protection from broken glass).
- Do not panic.
- If evacuated, lock all desk drawers and take all items of value with you.
- If evacuated, use a route that is in the building interior and stay away from large expanses of glass and windows.
- Use the stairwells rather than the elevators.
- If evacuated, do not return to your office until advised to do so.
TORNADOES OR FUNNEL CLOUDS
In most cases advance warning of a tornado is unlikely. For this reason, if a tornado is sighted approaching the building, please notify the Property Management Office and begin moving office staff to the interior corridors and elevator lobbies of the building. One of the greatest dangers will be that of flying glass and objects, so please attempt to select a location that has the maximum number of walls to the exterior of the building.
HURRICANES / TROPICAL STORMS
When a hurricane warning and evacuation order has been given by the National Weather Service and Civil Defense Authorities; the Property Management Office will notify all tenants of the closing of the building. Notification will be given by phone and by notices posted in public areas, lobbies, elevators and entry areas. All valuable documents, files and furnishings should be moved to inner offices to guard against the possibility of water damage from a broken window. Tenants not reached by phone will have evacuation notices placed on their entrance doors.