Inclement Weather Policy

Establish an environment and procedures where staff and patrons are provided information and directions for being safe in the event of severe weather.

Procedure:

Tornado watch (conditions for a tornado are favorable etc.) or Severe thunderstorm watch:

• Announcement over the PA system alerting patrons that a tornado watch or severe thunderstorm watch is in effect.
• Staff are asked to close all blinds around the building in work and public areas at this time. Let people know while we’re closing blinds that people “you” need to move to the first floor if a warning message comes over the PA. Particularly those in study rooms.
• Phone library departments and other library inhabitants with the news, if the PA does not reach them.
• No other actions are taken.

Tornado warning (i.e., tornado sighted) or Severe thunderstorm warning (use your judgment regarding thunderstorm warning:

• Announcement made over the PA system instructing patrons to move immediately to SAFE AREAS of the building - announcement at the public service desk.
• Staff are asked to assist patrons in locating the safe areas.
• Staff move to a safe area.

Safe Areas Include:

• Restrooms on the ground floor.
• Emergency stairwells at the first floor.
• Interior walls, away from the windows.
• Dock area.

Notes:

• We can NOT physically make patrons move to the first floor.
• We can be sure that the PA system is working in ALL parts of the building, i.e. study room, restrooms, offices, etc.
• We can let people know when and if a watch is issued while we’re closing blinds that people “you” need to move to the first floor if a warning is sounded.
• If we can be assured that the PA is working and we’ve informed people personally, that is the extent of our liability.

Policy updated May 2003