Office of Public Safety: 240-895-4911
Wellness Center: 240-895-4289
Walden-Sierra 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: 301-863-6661
St. Mary’s College of Maryland takes the health and safety of students, faculty, staff, and visitors seriously. We intentionally plan for predictable and unpredictable incidents and emergencies. An Emergency Response Team (ERT) is formed whenever there is a significant incident or emergency on campus. However, the ERT cannot respond to the emergency alone. Each and every person on campus has a responsibility to effectively respond when emergency situations arise.
Prior to an emergency situation:
Before an emergency situation arises, become familiar with the building(s) you use on campus. Know where the evacuation routes, emergency exits, and stairwells are. Find out where fire extinguishers and first aid kits are kept. If you observe something dangerous or life-threatening, call Public Safety at x4911 or (240)895-4911 immediately. If appropriate, Public Safety will request that the Dean of Students or designee enact an Emergency Response Team.
Basic emergency response procedures:
In every emergency situation or incident, each student, faculty, or staff member should carry out the following seven (7) critical responses:
- Remain calm
- Check official communication sources for information regarding the emergency
- Follow instructions for the next steps
- Care for and be responsive to others who may be in need of assistance
- Check in with concerned family and friends to let them know you are okay
- Check official communication sources for periodic updates
- Watch for the all clear signal
Personal safety
- Always be security-conscious by being alert; don’t take your safety for granted
- Keep your door locked, even if you are away from your room or residence hall for only a brief period of time
- Always lock your car doors and keep valuables out of sight
- NEVER lend keys, give your combination to anyone, leave doors open, or open your door or residence hall to anyone you do not recognize
- When walking, use well-lit sidewalks. Do not take shortcuts through poorly lit, heavily wooded or isolated areas
- ALWAYS walk with a friend. Escort service is available by calling Public Safety at (240) 895-4911. Be alert to persons approaching or following you
- Be alert for suspicious persons or dangerous situations
- Report all incidents (even if only attempted) to Public Safety immediately