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UW Emergency Management

Be prepared

It’s important for Huskies to prepare for possible disasters and other emergencies. Natural and human-caused disasters can happen anytime and anywhere. Make a plan and get a kit together before an emergency happens.

Make a plan

You can start your emergency plan in less time than it takes to read (or write) a class syllabus with these steps.

1. Know the risks

Check out UW’s emergency preparedness guide and look for emergency preparedness posters on campus.

2. Learn how to evacuate and shelter in place

Evacuation: There may be times when evacuation is necessary to stay safe. This includes during a fire or severe storm that makes a building unsafe.

  • Know where the exits are in your classroom, home, office and other places on campus. Practice using them.
  • Find the evacuation assembly areas for your campus:
  • Plan where you’ll meet up with your roommates, colleagues or family in case of an emergency.
  • Learn about evacuation planning for individuals with disabilities.

Shelter in place: Shelter in place might be recommended by authorities for various incidents such as active threats, chemical spills, volcanic ash or storms.

  • Get inside. Bring your fellow Huskies, your emergency supplies and, when possible, your pets.
  • Find a safe spot in this location.
  • Check for alerts and updates.
  • Stay put until officials say that it is safe to leave.

Learn more about sheltering in place

3. Make a communications plan

  • Sign up for UW Alert and emergency alerts in your area.
  • Make a list of emergency contacts and add an “In Case of Emergency” (ICE) contact in your phone.
  • Use text messages, social media and email to connect with friends and family during emergencies.
  • Have an emergency charging option for your phone and other mobile devices.

Start your communication plan

Build a kit

Following a disaster, basic services such as power, water and cell service may not be restored for days, even weeks. Huskies should have their own food, water and other supplies to last for at least three days. An emergency kit is also helpful in case you need to unexpectedly evacuate. Make sure you consider prescription medication, family members and pets.

See what to include in your kit

Learn More