Alert Directives

Below is a list of common alert directives associated with Safety Advisories and UVA Alerts. We ask that everyone within the UVA Community listen and adhere to these directives to best support UVA Emergency Management and our colleagues within the UVA Department of Safety and Security during emergency situations. 

Shelter In Place

Shelter-in-place (SIP) alerts are used for any incident where police and emergency responders need members of the UVA community to go inside and stay inside, such as during a dangerous situation on or near Grounds, a HAZMAT or other environmental hazard, or severe weather conditions. Remaining inside is not only vital for your safety, but it enables emergency responders to manage a SIP situation more effectively.  

The following ‘Shelter-in-Place Directive’ allows the community to continue operations, while remaining safe indoors:

  • If inside, please stay inside and remain calm.  
    • Move away from external doors and windows, if possible.
    • Inside, patrons of a building may move around to use the restroom, eat, and continue to work, teach, or study.  
  • If outside, get to the nearest building immediately. If that is not an option, move away from the area to safety as quickly as possible. Alternatively, if unable to get away, find a secure structure to hide behind or under. 

Run Hide Fight

The Run-Hide-Fight (RHF) directive is specifically for active attacker incidents.

  • If in the immediate vicinity of the attacker:
    • Run: Evacuate if there is a safe route available
    • Hide: If it is unsafe to escape, hide.  When possible lock the door and block entry, turn off lights and silence electronic devices.
    • Fight: Prepare to defend yourself if necessary.
  • If not in the immediate vicinity of the attacker:
    • If inside, stay inside and away from exterior doors and windows.  
    • If outside, get to the nearest building to hide. If that is not possible, get away from the area, to safety, as quickly as possible or hide behind or under a secure structure.

Avoid the Area

The Avoid the Area Directive is often associated with UVA Alerts, where it is imperative that, for the safety of you and others, you do not enter or approach an area under distress. 

  • If you are currently near the area of alert, leave the area.
  • If you are not in the area of the alert, continue to avoid the area.