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Photo of 2 students talking Otterbein College Resources > Campus Security Department > Emergency Preparedness

Hostage Situation

  • In the event a hostage situation occurs, remain calm and immediately notify the Otterbein College Security Department at (614) 823-1222 or call 911.
  • Provide as much information as possible, and, if safe to do so, remain on the line.
  • If safe to do so, evacuate the building.  Carefully avoid the attention of the hostage taker(s).
  • DO NOT take action to intervene.
  • If building evacuation is not possible, go to the nearest room or office and close and/or lock the door(s).  If the door(s) cannot be locked, barricade it with anything you have available (desks, tables, chairs, etc.).
  • Move away from the door(s) and stay low.
  • Remain quiet and act as if no one is in the room.
  • DO NOT ANSWER THE DOOR(S).
  • Wait for the Otterbein College Security Department or law enforcement to escort you out of the building.