Emergency Evacuation

Students with disabilities are advised to discuss emergency evacuation-related matters during their registration process with the Office of Disability Services (ODS). The welfare and well-being of our students are paramount.  

If you are a person with a disability and need assistance during building evacuation or other emergencies, please follow the following guidelines: 

  • Move to the nearest stairwell or safe exit. If you need help, ask someone to assist you to the nearest stairwell or safe exit. 

  • Make your presence known to others in the area. 

  • If you do not have an accessible way to exit the building, wait at the top of the closest stairwell and call campus police at 201-216-3911 to inform them of where you are. In rare situations when many people call Stevens Police to report an emergency, you may have a harder time getting through. Only in those rare circumstances should you call 201-401-6500. Stevens has emergency evacuation chairs designed to aid in stairway descent during an emergency, and both Stevens Police and the Hoboken Fire Department are trained in their use. 

Tips for Assisting People with Disabilities in an Emergency 

  • It is crucial to understand that the person with a disability is the best authority on how to be assisted. 

Blind/Visual Impairments 

  • Be sure to explain the type of emergency. 

  • Ask if assistance is required to get to the nearest safe exit. 

  • As you navigate, tell the person where you are and advise of any obstacles (stairs, doors, etc.). When you reach safety, orient the person to where he/she is and ask if any further assistance is needed before parting ways. 

Deaf/Hard of Hearing 

  • Explain the type of emergency by speaking slowly and clearly in front of the person or by the written word. 

  • Give visual instructions to advise about the safest route or direction by pointing toward exits or evacuation maps. 

  • If necessary, guide the person to the nearest safe exit and to a safe location.  

Mobility Disabilities 

  • Ask the person how you can best assist them in evacuating the area. 

  • Ensure you or someone else informs emergency personnel of the individual's location if they cannot exit the building.