Emergency and Safety Information
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
As a critical, primary component of the HPU emergency communication plan, HPU will enroll students in an important system called Rave Alert. The system allows the university to instantly send emergency information to students, faculty, and staff via text messaging and email. For more details, refer to the Student Emergency Notification Policy.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES: In the event of an emergency, students must follow university emergency protocol and directions given by HPU security, other university employees, and/or local law enforcement. Each building may have additional emergency procedures. Please consult any posted emergency plans, shelter in place procedures where applicable, and all other university emergency procedures as set forth in the university’s emergency response manual.
WATER SAFETY: The Hawaii lifestyle includes the beach, sun and fun, but Hawaii’s oceans can be dangerous and turn fun into tragedy. Use care and caution in all water activities, including in swimming pools, and always read and obey safety signs. They could save your life!
Never go swimming alone, even if you are an exceptional swimmer. Never go to the beach alone.
Be aware of high surf warnings and strong currents.
If walking on ledges near water, be aware of large waves which can sweep you out to sea. Use caution and watch for breaking waves.
Stay away from wet rocky areas and never turn your back to the ocean.
Be careful of dangerous breaking waves at the shoreline.
Most beaches post signs about the conditions of the ocean. Read and obey them. Strong currents may not be noticeable on the surface but can be dangerous beneath.
Know the various beaches on the islands and the prevailing conditions at each. Select beaches with conditions that match your skills and comfort level.
Most swimming pools are designed to be shallow at one end and drop, sometimes rapidly, toward the deeper end. Never go into a pool alone, unless you are a strong swimmer.
Use protective sunscreen, preferably SPF 30 or above. Some dermatologists advise you to use sunscreen at all times.
If you would like to learn how to swim, call the following places for more information:
YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Association): (808) 536-3556
YWCA (Young Women’s Christian Association): (808) 538-7061
Look in the yellow pages of the telephone directory under Swimming Instruction for additional places to learn how to swim.
Swimming lessons are offered for all levels—beginner, intermediate, etc. and costs range from month-to-month for a designated swim program. There is an annual membership fee with additional costs for adult swimmers.
HURRICANES: June through November is hurricane season in Hawaii, although hurricanes may occur at any time of the year. When a hurricane warning is announced, leave beaches and low-lying, flood-prone areas. Hurricane/tsunami (tidal wave) evacuation maps can be found at the Pacific Disaster Center (www.pdc.org/resources). Evacuate buildings vulnerable to devastating winds, storm surf and flash floods. Seek safety in sturdy, well-built buildings not vulnerable to high winds and flooding. Stay indoors to avoid being hit by flying debris or electrical power lines. If necessary, evacuate to sturdy buildings or public shelters. Do not use the telephone unless it is an emergency. Stay away from plate glass windows, skylights or walls. Listen to the radio or TV for information and instructions.
FLASH FLOODS: Flash floods are rapid flooding of streams, valleys and other flood-prone areas. Floods are caused by heavy rains (e.g., tropical storms) and may occur at any time. In case of a flash flood, go to high ground. Do not enter flooded roads, streams, ponds or paths.
TSUNAMIS (TIDAL WAVES): Tsunamis are series of destructive ocean waves affecting all shorelines. They may occur at any time with limited or no warning. In case of a tsunami, evacuate all coastal areas. Listen to the radio or TV for information and instructions. Do not travel if you are in a safe area.
EARTHQUAKES: Earthquakes occur without warning. Strong earthquakes may cause tsunamis. Be prepared. In case of an earthquake, if you are indoors, get under a desk, table or a supported doorway. If you are outdoors, stay in the open. Do not enter damaged buildings for any reason. Be aware of possible fires, downed power lines and aftershocks. If you are driving, STOP; remain inside your vehicle.
FIRE AND EVACUATION PLAN: Everyone shares in the responsibility of providing a FIRE SAFE atmosphere by being constantly vigilant in preventing fire hazards and also by initiating prompt and efficient action in the event of a fire emergency.
General Plan for all Buildings
1. If a fire is observed, remain calm.
2. Shout, “FIRE!”
3. Pull the nearest fire alarm (if available).
4. Do not attempt to fight a fire unless properly trained and only if the fire is contained.
5. EVACUATE immediately; DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS.
6. Notify building and/or floor captain (if necessary).
7. Call 911 (if necessary).
8. Go to designated gathering area and wait until instructed by the Honolulu Fire Department to return to the building.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES/DISASTER PLAN: Always be prepared for any emergency and understand the procedures directed by designated authorities. Being ready means:
Keeping a flashlight and/or emergency candles and fresh batteries on hand.
Having a battery-operated radio.
Filling containers with fresh water in case the water supply becomes contaminated or cut off.
Keeping a supply of nonperishable foods (e.g., foods that do not have to be cooked).
Having a first aid kit.
Having masking tape for windows and glass doors (to prevent shattering).
Having access to a cellular phone or two-way radios.
Knowing your evacuation plan and locating a safe meeting area away from plate-glass windows, skylights or exterior walls.
LOCAL EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION OPTION: Get emergency alerts sent directly from the Honolulu Department of Emergency Management and other local agencies to your mobile phone or email. Hear about water main breaks from the Board of Water Supply; receive emergency information from the Department of Emergency Management; stay informed of urgent traffic bulletins from the Honolulu Policy Department; and much more.
Sign up free at HNL.info. You may opt out at any point by sending STOP to 888777. Send HELP to 888777 for information. No charge but Message and Data rates may apply. Most carriers are supported. Message frequency varies by user.
Campus Shelter in Place Guide: If sheltering in place, underground garages, basements and concrete are the best structures for sheltering. However, any structure is better than being caught outside. Go to the following areas for shelter:
ALOHA TOWER MARKETPLACE:
o ATM Building 1 2nd Floor Room 2133 the Refuse Room
o ATM Building 2 2nd Floor Room 2229 the Refuse Room
o ATM Building 3 2nd Floor Room 2322 the Refuse Room
o ATM Building 4 2nd Floor stairwell across from 2412
o ATM Bldg. 1 and 2 3rd Floor stairwell near elevators
HLC CAMPUS: Shelter in place in the Academic Center stairwell.
WATERFRONT PLAZA: Shelter in place in building stairwells.
MODEL PROGRESS (MP):
o Primary shelter is the basement.
o Classroom MP241A, Stairwells at back of building and 3rd Floor Elevator Lobby and two hallways leading to English or Math
PIONEER PLAZA (PL): Shelter in any of the four stairwells or in Arcade Level Classrooms PL11, PL12, and PL13.
MILITARY CAMPUSES: Follow the instructions set forth by Base Command.
EXECUTIVE CENTRE: Follow the instructions set forth by the staff.
KALO TERRACE: Follow the instructions set forth by the staff.