Emergency Information

General Emergency Response Guidelines

When hosting a regional or multi-county event, Extension agents and volunteers should identify the closest hospital to the event and inform participants of the location. Note that individual counties or programs may have specific emergency response guidelines. Contact your local county Extension office for more information about events in your county.

In the event that an accident/incident occurs, agents and volunteers should focus on the safety and comfort of the youth involved. General guidance for emergency procedures include:

• Provide appropriate medical attention and call 911, police, or ambulance, as appropriate. Always leave a responsible person with the youth if you have to leave the accident scene to secure help.
• Notify the Extension personnel in charge of the event.
• Have the Extension personnel in charge of the event contact the parent/guardian of the youth.
• Notify the regional Coordinator and the head of the Center for 4-H Youth Development.
• All media response is handled through the Office of Agricultural Communications.
• After the situation is stabilized, complete a 4-H Accident/Incident Report form (F1104).

On-Campus (MSU) Emergency Response Guidelines

Extension agents, volunteers, and senior 4-H’ers should familiarize themselves with the following communication methods used during an emergency on the MSU campus.

While on campus for statewide events, Extension agents, volunteers, and youth should sign up for Maroon Alerts, which is the university’s emergency notification system that uses texts, emails, and phone calls to inform the university community of imminent or existing dangers.

To sign up for Maroon Alerts, text MAROONALERT to 888777. Text STOP to 888777 to be removed from the system.

During an on-campus emergency, an emergency hotline will be activated. Call (662) 325-5555 to connect with university professionals who can speak with you regarding the emergency.

Participants and their families can also use the MSU Emergency website to receive updates.

MSU has designated Areas of Refuge for use during severe weather:

• Colvard Student Union, the Dawg House, Room 123, first floor
• Lee Hall, Rooms 0010, 0011, and 0014 in the basement hallway

The following telephone numbers can also be used while on campus:

• Immediate or life-threatening emergency: 911
• MSU Campus Police: (662) 325-2121
• Extension Center for 4-H Youth Development: (662) 325-3350
• Longest Student Health Center: (662) 325-2431

The closest hospital is OCH Regional Medical Center located at 400 Hospital Road in Starkville. The general telephone number is (662) 323-4320.

Severe Weather, Lightning, and Swimming Guidelines

Before an event, Extension agents and volunteers should identify a safe place participants can go to in the event of severe weather. This would typically include a space that is in the interior of the building, on the lowest level, and with no windows or doors.

Listen to local weather stations. If a severe weather warning is issued, stay in your safe place until the warning has expired.

When thunder is heard or lightning is seen, everyone must stop what they are doing and go inside. Wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities. Any subsequent lightning or thunder resets the clock, and another 30-minute count should begin. If in doubt, use common sense. Remember, the safety of all participants is paramount.

In order for youth to swim at 4-H events, they must have a signed Parental Authorization to Swim and Release of Liability form (F1192) on file before the swim event. A form must be completed for each swim event and location.