Shelter-in-place orders issued on Feb. 25 and 27, stemming from two unrelated incidents that resulted in suspects nearing or entering Grounds, generated questions about safety messaging at UVA.
UVA Today checked in with the Department of Safety and Security on some of the most frequently asked questions.
What should Hoos do during a shelter-in-place order?
Shelter-in-place orders are used when certain types of threats or natural hazards are confirmed on or near Grounds. During a shelter-in-place, community members should:
- Remain inside and away from doors and windows.
- Follow directives by law enforcement and in UVA Alerts until an all-clear message is given by University officials.
- Check for UVA Alerts updates and let your family know that you are sheltering, but safe.
“We urge everyone on Grounds to take these directives seriously,” UVA Police Chief Tim Longo said. “We don’t issue shelter-in-place orders unless there is high confidence that the issue at hand presents a real threat to the University.”
Why were we asked to shelter in place if the incidents didn’t happen on Grounds?
Decision-making in emergency incidents is based on available information, the proximity of the incident to Grounds and perceived threats to the UVA community. In both February cases, the incidents originated off, but near, Grounds, and the suspects were seen heading in the direction of Grounds. It was decided that the safest course of action while the suspects were believed to be near Grounds was to shelter in place.
“Both of last week’s incidents were very fluid situations and involved widespread search efforts for a threatening individual,” Longo said. “All decisions are made with the safety of our community in mind.”
Why did you use the “Run, Hide, Fight” language during the Feb. 27 incident?
“Run, Hide, Fight” is a national emergency response model for active attacker situations that has been adopted by UVA’s Academic Division and UVA Health. A Department of Safety and Security training video on the “Run, Hide, Fight” model is available and encouraged for UVA students, faculty, staff and the public to view regularly. Students are required to refresh their training every other year.
What types of safety messages does the University send?
UVA issues three types of safety notices based on urgency:
- “UVA Alerts” are sent in the event of an imminent threat that may warrant immediate action from community members to remain safe. UVA Alerts are sent via email, text message, the UVA Ready mobile app and social media and are displayed on laptop screens on the UVA network and informational screens around Grounds.
- “Safety Advisories,” formerly “Community Alerts,” are emailed by the chief of police following certain crimes that have occurred on or near Grounds, as required by the federal Clery Act. Advisories inform the community of the date, time and location of a crime that presents an ongoing threat to the community. No urgent action is required.
- General communication messages are sent when there are changes to University operations due to inclement weather or to acknowledge situations, such as public health concerns, being monitored by University officials.
