SUU’s Safety Response Protocols
Posted: September 03, 2026 | Author: Southern Utah University | Read Time: 2 minutes
Whether you are arriving for the first time or returning for another year, you are part of a community built on trust, practical support, and genuine connection - the foundation you need to discover where you soar. Part of feeling confident here means knowing exactly what to do if an unexpected situation happens, which is why SUU uses five clear, straightforward emergency actions to communicate quickly during a campus alert.
Here is what those alerts mean and the steps you can take to protect yourself and keep our community secure.
CLOSURE! (Campus Delay or Closure)
When it’s used: Issued for severe winter weather, utility failures, or full campus closures.
The Goal: Protect students, faculty, and staff from traveling or staying on campus during unsafe environmental conditions.
What you do:Stay off campus until notified otherwise. Reach out to your professors or supervisor to coordinate remote learning or work requirements.
HOLD! (Clear the Hallways)
When it’s used: Triggered when there is a localized risk or incident nearby, such as a medical emergency or active law enforcement situation in a specific building or area.
The Goal: Keep hallways clear so first responders can move quickly while keeping everyone in a known, safe location until an "All Clear" is given.
What you do:Stay in your current area, keep away from the hazard, and report any suspicious behavior immediately.
SHELTER! (Hazard-Specific Protection)
When it’s used: Called during natural disasters, severe weather events, or off-campus environmental hazards.
The Goal: Provide immediate protection from external threats.
What you do:Follow safety steps specific to the hazard. Drop, cover, and hold during an earthquake, or move away from windows during high winds.
EVACUATE! (Leave the Building)
When it’s used: Used during fires, bomb threats, or immediately after an earthquake.
The Goal: Empty a building quickly, calmly, and safely.
What you do:Grab your phone, leave other belongings behind, and head directly to your designated assembly area. Always take the stairs and never use elevators.
LOCKDOWN! (Imminent Threat)
When it’s used: Declared when there is immediate, active danger on campus.
The Goal: Secure your location immediately so you remain hidden and out of harm's way.
What you do:Lock all doors, turn off lights, stay silent, and do not open the door for anyone. If an active threat is in your immediate area, follow the RUN, HIDE, FIGHT protocol.
Alert Channels
During any incident, official university updates will be shared directly through SUU’s alert channels. Taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with these simple steps helps ensure that our entire campus stays safe, supported, and ready to move forward together.
Active Emergencies: Call or text 911 immediately.
Campus Alerts: Opt-in to receive campus alerts
Learn More: Explore complete emergency protocols and campus safety resources.
