Emergencies at Clark College
Emergencies are rare, but they can happen at any time. When they do, being ready can make a big difference. Clark College is committed to building a safe, informed, and prepared community by planning ahead, practicing our response, and supporting each other.
This page provides an overview of what to expect during an emergency and how the college prepares for the unexpected. You'll also find quick links to procedures, training, and emergency tools to help you feel more confident and prepared.
What to Do in an Emergency
Clark College uses a simple, standardized system for responding to emergencies called the Standard Response Protocol. It is based on four key actions that can be used in any part of campus:
In addition, for active threat situations, the college follows the nationally recognized Run, Hide, Fight guidance:
Clark College Emergency Procedures
These actions help reduce confusion and allow everyone to respond quickly and safely.
Emergency Addresses
- 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver
- 18700 SE Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver
- 7000 Pioneer St., Ridgefield
- 14204 NE Salmon Creek Ave., Vancouver
Be Prepared While on Campus
Traditional (face-to-face) Commitments
Know Your Assembly Area
If an evacuation is required, you should leave the building and go to the nearest outdoor assembly area. These locations are marked on signs across campus and are also shown on our assembly maps.
Understand Active Threat Procedures
In the rare event of an active threat on campus, Clark follows the Run, Hide, Fight model. This national best practice empowers individuals to make the safest choice for their situation.
Emergency Alerts
Clark uses the RAVE Alert System to notify the community during an emergency. Messages are sent by text, email, Clark College’s webpage, social media and via the Guardian App. All faculty, staff and students that have provided the college with a cellular telephone number will be automatically enrolled in the RAVE Alert system.
- Need help logging in or changing your information?
- Follow the instructions on the Rave Alert: Emergency Notification System webpage.
- Check out The RAVE Guardian Mobile Safety App!
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Get the App by texting the word “Guardian” to 67283. (Open to all individuals who have a clark.edu email address)
- Discreetly Contact Clark College Security and Safety: Prevent dangerous situations by sending anonymous tips with a photo or location.
- Get Help: With a push of a button, you can directly connect to the College’s Security and Safety desk or 9-1-1 in an emergency.
- Never Travel Alone: Set a virtual safety timer for an extra layer of safety wherever you are.
- Find The Resources You Need: Access key safety, security and general information resources.
- Stay Informed: Receive alerts based on your location.
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Get the App by texting the word “Guardian” to 67283. (Open to all individuals who have a clark.edu email address)
Participate in Drills and Trainings
The college conducts evacuation, lockdown, and earthquake drills throughout the year. These exercises help you become more familiar with the procedures and give the college a chance to improve systems and coordination.
How Clark College Prepares
- The Emergency Management Planning Committee (EMPC) meets regularly to provide guidance and review campus safety practices. This interdisciplinary team includes representatives from across the college.
- Campus Security is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Officers respond to incidents, assist with evacuations, and support the college’s emergency plans.
- Every department maintains a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) to help resume essential college services after an emergency or major disruption.
- Emergency Building Coordinators (EBCs) are trained volunteers who help guide evacuations, provide information, and support communication during drills and emergencies.
- Clark College works closely with local police, fire, EMS, and public health agencies to coordinate emergency response and recovery when needed.
Your Role in Campus Safety
Everyone has a part to play in creating a safe and prepared campus. You can help by:
- Reviewing the emergency response actions.
- Knowing the exits and assembly areas in every space you use.
- Take all exercises seriously. Participating in drills and helping others stay calm and focused.
- Reporting suspicious behavior or hazards to Campus Security.
- Responding quickly and following directions during an alert or alarm.
- Emergencies are often unpredictable, but preparation and practice help us stay ready and respond effectively.