Emergency Operations
Philosophy of Emergency Preparedness and Response
At Cerro Coso Community College, we recognize that our emergency operations must reflect the unique and dynamic nature of a higher education environment. Unlike K-12 institutions, where student accountability, specific locations, and personnel are often highly structured and predictable, our college operates with inherent fluidity. Our students, faculty, and staff are present at various times and locations throughout the day and week, making rigid, prescriptive policies less effective.
Therefore, our philosophy for emergency preparedness and response is centered on flexibility, adaptability, and clear communication. We understand that in an emergency, the ability to rapidly assess, adjust, and disseminate information is paramount. Our plans and training are designed to empower our college community with the fundamental principles of safety and response, rather than an exhaustive list of actions for every conceivable scenario.
Our core response strategy is built upon the following principles:
- Get Out: Prioritize immediate evacuation from an unsafe area to a designated safe location when an imminent threat exists.
- Gather in Defined Locations: Assemble at predetermined external gathering points, which depend on where you evacuated from and the safe path taken.
- Communicate Status with Radio Holders: Identify designated emergency personnel (radio holders) to provide real-time updates on status and needs.
- Stand by for Guidance: Remain in a safe state, await further instructions, and follow the directions of emergency responders and college leadership.
This adaptive approach allows us to develop a resilient and effective emergency operations plan that can be applied across diverse situations and operational hours of Cerro Coso Community College. Our goal is to foster a culture of preparedness where every individual understands their role in ensuring the safety of themselves and our community by acting decisively and communicating effectively.
