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Learn 5 simple steps to be ‘Emory READY’ during campus emergencies
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September is National Preparedness Month. Learning how to protect yourself and others when there is an emergency contributes to your personal safety, the community’s safety and Emory’s community resilience.

“Emergencies are unexpected, but when one occurs, knowing what to do — or simply where to look for help and resources — can be key to minimizing danger. The better prepared we are, the more resilient we are as a community,” says Sam Shartar, senior director for Emory’s Office of Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR).

In recognition of the FEMA national “READY” campaign, Emory READY strives to promote preparedness on campus through education, training and outreach.

There are five simple steps you can take to become better prepared:

  1. Participate in Emory’s Emergency Notification Program.
  2. Download and review the free Emory Safe app.
  3. Review the Student and Faculty/Staff Preparedness Checklists and the Just-In-time Guide for Campus Emergencies.
  4. Identify designated severe weather refuge areas, fire exits and automated external defibrillator (AED) locations.
  5. Take a Life Support Training on campus to learn CPR, how to use an AED, how to treat an obstructed airway and how to control bleeding.

Emergency resources are always available with the free Emory Safe app. The app’s safety features include:

  • Emergency contacts: Easily contact the Emory Police Department (EPD) or other responder agencies in case of emergency.
  • Emergency guides: Access campus emergency guides to review materials that can help you be prepared. These are available regardless of Wi-Fi or cellular data connectivity.
  • FriendWalk: Send your location to a friend through email or SMS. Once they’ve accepted the request, the user chooses a destination, and the location is tracked and shared in real time. In the event you require emergency services, either the user or friend can activate them on the user’s behalf. The friend does not need to have the app to participate.
  • Safety notifications: Receive instant alerts and instructions when an on-campus emergency occurs.
  • See something, send something: Have you ever seen something suspicious, but weren’t sure how to report it? Now you can use Emory Safe to notify the Emory police if you see a potential threat or suspicious activity. This helps to keep Emory’s community safe.

Additional features include student and faculty/staff health and well-being resources, PassioGo shuttle tracking, interactive campus maps and more. 


Pedestrian safety at Emory

The Clifton Corridor is busy with high volumes of traffic. It is important for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to stay alert, avoid distractions and follow the guidance below to enhance safety.

  • Always used the marked crosswalk areas.
  • Stay alert and avoid phone distractions, particularly on busy streets such as Clifton and North Decatur roads.
  • Make sure you select the correct button for assistance at crosswalks. Look for the arrow as a guide.
  • Pedestrians have the right of way, but distracted drivers can be dangerous. Avoid crossing the street during the last few seconds of the crosswalk countdown.
  • Even when the light says “Walk,” wait a moment to make sure no cars are approaching.
  • When possible, plan your walking route to avoid busy intersections, especially during rush hour.
  • If you are walking late at night, use the flashlight feature on your phone or wear bright colors to increase visibility.

Medical emergency? Call Emory EMS

Emory Emergency Medical Service (EEMS) is a volunteer, student-led EMS organization, with oversight from CEPAR.

EEMS provides a first responder service for emergency medical care to Emory University students, faculty, staff, visitors and the surrounding community.

EEMS operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week, during the fall and spring semesters. The response area includes Emory University’s Clifton Campus and the immediate surrounding facilities, businesses and roads.

EEMS works in coordination with local EMS and fire departments responding to emergency and 911-based calls in the Emory community. In addition, it provides medical standby services for university events. The program also has a strong commitment to community outreach and education, hosting outreach events throughout the year.

To request EMS, call the Emory police at 404-727-6111 or dial 911.

For more information on EEMS outreach and events, follow EEMS on Instagram: @emory.ems.

For more information on CEPAR events and offerings, visit the CEPAR website and follow CEPAR on social media:


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