SHRL Campus Safety & Emergency Procedures

At Cameron University, ensuring the safety and well-being of all residential students is a top priority. The Student Housing and Residential Life (SHRL) team works in close coordination with campus emergency services to conduct regular safety drills, maintain clear emergency protocols, and provide resources to support resident safety in any emergency situation.

While university staff are trained to assist during emergencies, residents are ultimately responsible for their own safety. All residents must take personal responsibility for knowing and following emergency procedures, recognizing posted evacuation routes, and responding promptly during drills or actual incidents.

Emergency Drills and Compliance

In accordance with local, state, and federal regulations, Cameron University and SHRL conduct routine emergency drills throughout the academic year. These drills are designed to ensure all residents are familiar with appropriate response procedures in the event of a real emergency.

A minimum of one fire drill per semester is conducted in each residential facility.
All residents are required to participate fully in drills and must evacuate their building promptly when a fire alarm sounds, whether during a drill or an actual emergency.
Residents must follow all directions provided by SHRL staff, university officials, or emergency responders at all times.
Once outside, residents should move at least 50 to 75 feet away from the building or proceed to the designated assembly area, if known.
Failure to comply with emergency procedures—including refusal to evacuate, disregarding instructions, or obstructing emergency operations—may result in conduct violations, university sanctions, and fines of up to $250.

Fire Evacuation

In the event of a fire alarm or actual fire emergency:

North and South Shepler Halls: Residents must exit the building immediately and assemble in the parking area located behind Black and Gold Boulevard.

In cases of heavy rain, hail, or extreme weather conditions, residents should proceed to the McMahon Learning Center (MLC) Housing Office, for secure shelter.

Cameron Village Apartments: Residents should evacuate and gather in the McMahon Centennial Complex (MCC) parking lot, located to the right of the Village Complex or the gravel parking area beside Building D, outside the gate behind the Aggie Rec Center.

In cases of heavy rain, hail, or extreme weather conditions, residents may shelter in the Shepler Ballroom area or inside the MCC building, depending on access and instructions from SHRL staff.

Important Note: Elevators will automatically shut down during a fire alarm. Do not attempt to use the elevator under any circumstances. Use the nearest stairwell to exit the building safely.

Severe Weather and Tornado Shelter Locations

If a tornado warning or other severe weather emergency is issued:

North and South Shepler Halls:

Each floor has two bathrooms that serve as the primary shelter areas — enter the bathroom, close the door, sit down, and cover your head.
The lounge may be used as additional shelter space if needed; be sure to close the door.

Cameron Village Apartments:

Residents should seek shelter in the bathrooms within their apartments or in the first-floor hallways behind the fire doors. Enter the bathroom, close the door, sit down, and cover your head.

Hallway:

Close the door, sit with your back toward the wall, and cover your head.

Evacuation Guidelines and Safety Reminders

During any emergency or drill, residents should observe the following safety precautions to protect themselves and others:

Never use elevators during a fire alarm or power outage, as they will automatically shut down and may become unsafe.
Use stairwells to exit the building and proceed to the designated assembly point or shelter area in an orderly manner.
Remain calm at all times. Avoid yelling, pushing, or panicking.
Walk quickly and with purpose, but do not run, to prevent injury and allow safe movement of all occupants.
Follow all instructions from SHRL staff, emergency personnel, and first responders.
Do not return to the building until an official “all-clear” has been given by emergency personnel or university officials.
Never put yourself or others at unnecessary risk. Use sound judgment and prioritize safety above personal belongings or convenience.

Emergency Directions and Information in Residence Halls

Each residential facility includes posted emergency instructions, evacuation maps, and shelter location guides:

You will typically find these materials posted on the back of your room door, in common areas, and along residential corridors.
It is each resident’s responsibility to familiarize themselves with the posted emergency information in their building.
If this information is missing or unreadable, please notify SHRL staff immediately so it can be replaced or updated.

Emergency Notification System

Cameron University uses a multi-platform Emergency Notification System designed to alert students, faculty, and staff in the event of an urgent or potentially dangerous situation. Notifications are delivered via:

Automated phone calls
Text messages
Email alerts
To ensure you receive timely emergency notifications, residents should regularly verify and update their contact information in the university's communication system.

For more details, visit the university’s emergency notification web page:

ADA Accommodations and Emergency Assistance

Residents who require assistance during evacuations due to mobility, sensory, or other disabilities are encouraged to contact SHRL in advance to arrange appropriate accommodations.

To request support or discuss your needs, please contact: housing@cameron.edu.

This ensures that university staff are informed and can respond effectively in the event of an emergency.

Additional Campus Safety Information

For a comprehensive overview of campus safety services, emergency planning resources, and public safety policies, please visit the Office of Public Safety’s official webpage.