APSU Alerts & Emergency Communications
Emergency Management Training
Emergency Terms Defined
Understand the alerts and commands used to keep our campus safe.
Get Out Stay Put Decide All Clear
Urgent Alert
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What does this mean? |
A potential threat to life safety has been reported. APSU Police are on site assessing the situation to determine if there is a risk to the campus community. |
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What should I do? |
Maintain your normal activities but **avoid the specific area** mentioned in the alert. This keeps the area clear for police and emergency responders. Wait for an "All Clear" or further instructions. |
Emergency Command: Get Out
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What does this mean? |
A confirmed hazard exists inside a building or area (such as a fire, gas leak, or lab emergency), and it is safer to be outside. All occupants must leave to ensure their safety and allow emergency crews to respond. |
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What should I do? |
Calmly but quickly **evacuate** the building or area. Relocate to the designated rally point for your location or move to a safe distance away from the hazard. Follow all instructions from police and emergency personnel. |
Emergency Command: Stay Put
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What does this mean? |
A confirmed hazard exists outside (such as severe weather or a chemical spill), and it is safer to remain indoors. This is a **shelter-in-place** order. |
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What should I do? |
Stay where you are. If you are outside, go into the nearest campus building. Move to an interior room away from doors and windows if possible. Await the "All Clear" message before leaving. |
Critical Command: Decide (Run. Hide. Fight.)
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What does this mean? |
An **active shooter is confirmed** on campus. There is an immediate threat to life safety. You must take action now to protect yourself. |
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What should I do? |
Immediately decide your best course of action based on your specific situation.
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Urgent Alert: All Clear
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What does this mean? |
The situation has been investigated and resolved by law enforcement. While the investigation may continue, there is no longer an active threat to public safety. |
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What should I do? |
You may resume your normal campus activities unless otherwise instructed. |



