Who do I call in case of an emergency on campus?
For police, fire and medical emergencies on campus, call UAPD at 205-348-5454 or 911.
How will I be advised of an emergency event affecting the campus?
In the event of an emergency on campus, UA Alerts will be sent. UA Alerts sends emergency notifications by telephone (cell and/or home), email, and text (SMS) messages to students and UA employees.
Students should keep their contact information under the Student tab in myBama up-to-date. Employees should keep their emergency contact information in myBama up-to-date.
Everyone can download the UA Safety App to receive all UA Alerts. Emergency information will also be broadcast on 92.5 FM UA Info Radio, which can be streamed through the UA Safety App.
What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?
A tornado watch indicates that weather conditions are favorable for a tornado. A tornado warning indicates a tornado has been spotted or detected on weather radar. The University’s policy is to suspend operations during a tornado warning.
What do I do if the campus is placed under a tornado warning?
During a tornado warning:
- Move to a campus storm shelter or Best Available Refuge Area (BARA)
- Classes, laboratories and events are suspected during the tornado warning
- Crimson Ride buses do not operate during a tornado warning
- Alert others of the warning
- Remain in the shelter or BARA until the tornado warning is canceled or expires
What is a Best Available Refuge Area (BARA)?
Best Available Refuge Areas are locations inside campus buildings that have been pre-identified as the best sheltering option in that building for building occupants who are unable to reach a designated storm shelter.
Read more about UA's campus storm shelters and Best Available Refuge Areas.
What if there is a fire?
- If there is a fire in your building, pull the nearest fire alarm. The fire alarm will alert UAPD and Tuscaloosa Fire Rescue.
- Use stairwells to exit the building. Do not use elevators.
- Stay outside at a safe distance and keep others away from the building.
- UAPD and Tuscaloosa Fire Rescue will respond to the fire alarm.
What if there is a medical emergency?
- Do not move the victim.
- Call UAPD at 205-348-5454 or 911.
- Accurately describe the situation to the dispatcher.
- Remain with the victim until help arrives.
- Stay out of the way of emergency officials.
What if there is an active threat on campus?
Each situation is different, so no single procedure will work in all circumstances. You will have to make the best decision for your safety based on your sitatuon.
What do I do if I encounter hazardous materials?
If you are involved or observe a hazardous material incident release, which includes biological, chemical, radiological, fuel and oil, then you must:
- Close the doors and isolate the area if it is safe to do so.
- From a safe area, call UAPD at 205-348-5454 or 911.
- Evacuate the area, and building if necessary.
- Do NOT attempt to clean up a spill or hazardous material release. UA's Office of Environmental Health and Safety will respond and clean up the hazardous material.
What is the UA Safety App?
The UA Safety App provides students, employees, and visitors with immediate access to information in case of an emergency. Features include a built-in GPS to every campus building and shelter locations, AEDs, and safety guidelines for potential hazards. Users also receive exclusive UA Alerts and current UAPD advisories for up-to-date information.