EHHD Crisis Response Plan

There are different events that may constitute a “crisis” on a university campus. This plan is a way to navigate some of the possible crises that could occur. This is not an exhaustive list. If you have any question as to whether or not you should act upon something, please do not hesitate to confer with your department head or assistant dean. If there is an emergency (i.e. someone harming themselves or someone else), please call university police immediately at 911 from any campus phone or your cell phone. For non-emergencies you can call 406-994-2121. The non-emergency number WILL NOT get you an immediate answer from a real person- when in doubt, dial 911.

MSU Alerts

Montana State University has an “MSU Alert System” which is used to text and email all faculty, staff, and students in the event of a campus emergency. All faculty, staff, and students should be automatically enrolled in this program. If you are concerned you are not on the list, please text “montanastate” to 406-888-777 to enroll in the program. Anyone can enroll, including your family members, friends, and the general community.

When an alert comes through to your email inbox or via text, pay careful attention to what is being asked of you if there is an action item or several action items (i.e. stay where you are, close windows/doors/blinds, exit campus, turn off lights).

It is important that the MSU Police Department be in control of all shared communications. Therefore, please do not send or re-send any additional or contradictory communications to EHHD constituents. In case of an MSU Alert, University Police are working hard to ensure your safety on campus.

Harm to self/others

In an emergency where there is potential harm to anyone, call 911. If you are concerned about a student’s (or colleague’s) well-being, trust your instincts. Over-communication is better than not enough. Do not hesitate to reach out to the assistant dean for guidance or to troubleshoot a situation. The Senior Assistant Dean's office number is 406-994-4135. Always call 911 immediately if you feel the danger is emergent or imminent. This is always OK.

Incidents in the College of EHHD

In the event where something tragic happens to one of our faculty, staff, or students, the Leadership Team will be working hard to determine the best course of action and a communication plan, while working with other campus entities as appropriate and necessary depending on the event. If you learn of a tragic incident involving a member of EHHD, please reach out to your department head, the dean, or assistant dean immediately. Notification of any tragic incidents will be communicated appropriately if it is deemed necessary.

Non-Emergency Concerns

Concern about Students: Contact the Senior Assistant Dean or your department’s student concern reporting structure for consultation on student concerns (i.e. mental health, behavioral).

Concern about a faculty or staff member: Contact your individual department head for consultation or to provide information about a concerning issue.