FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY
Last Reviewed: March 19, 2025
Severe Weather
Remain Calm
- Immediately seek shelter inside the closest sturdy building.
- Once inside, stay away from windows, glass, and unsecured objects that may fall.
- Best to seek shelter in interior rooms and corridors.
- Resist the temptation to go outside and check the weather conditions yourself.
- DO NOT use elevators.
- Monitor emergency communications for specific instructions.
- DO NOT leave until an “All Clear” is received.
During a tornado, seek shelter on the lowest level possible. If warranted, consider crouching near the floor and seeking additional shelter under a sturdy desk or table, or cover your head with your hands.
Remember, always use common sense. There are exceptions to all guidance and prescribed directions.
Weather Definitions
Watch: Conditions are favorable for the development of severe weather. Closely monitor the situation in the event advisories or warnings are issued.
Warning: Severe weather has actually been observed. Listen closely for instructions provided by weather radios/emergency officials.
Chemical, Biological or Radiological
A place of shelter is an area inside a building that offers occupants protection during an accident or intentional release of a chemical, biological or radiological agent.
Note: Many toxic chemicals have a vapor density greater than that of air, and will seek lowest ground. In the case of a shelter in place due to a chemical spill, follow instructions provided by emergency personnel.
- Go inside the nearest building.
- Close all doors, windows and other inlets from the outside.
- Monitor emergency communications for specific instructions.
Hostile Intruder / Active Threat (Information available at https://libweb.fau.edu/active-threat/)
