In light of the tragic incident that took place on the campus of Northern Illinois University on Thursday, February 14, 2008, I am asking the entire campus community to pause for a moment to pay respect to those who lost lives and sustained injuries as a result of this senseless act of violence. In addition, I am asking everyone to renew your efforts in making certain that Howard University is a safe and secure environment. Please review our current Emergency Preparedness plan at www.howard.edu/emergency, and reacquaint yourself with these important initiatives: Shelter in Place, and the AlertHU, our mechanism of notifying you in case of an emergency situation. You may register for AlertHU on Bisonweb at www.howard.edu/bisonweb.

For those residing in our Residence Halls, please make certain that your emergency contact information is current with your Community Director. All other students please make certain that your information is current with the Office of Records. Faculty and staff, please make certain that your information is current with both the Dean of your School/College and the Department of Human Resource Management.

Below are the tips -- previously printed -- to remember as you go about your daily activities.

Tips to Remember:

• Be aware of the activities around you and report any suspicious people or activity to the Campus Police Emergency No. at (202) 806-7777 or call 9-1-1.
• Be informed. Pay attention to the local news. If an incident should occur, have a means of listening for instruction (Radio, TV, Cable, etc.).
• Know your evacuation route from the facility, and depart should the evacuation alarm signal be given.
• Close all windows. This helps to control the emergency, if a fire should occur.
• Carry your University ID card at all times.
• Notify a family member, friend, or roommate if you plan to be away from your residence for any length of time.

Please join me in our efforts to make Howard University a safe environment by adhering to the suggestions contained in this memorandum. As always, your cooperation and vigilance will greatly assist our efforts to maintain a safe and secure environment.