What to do in emergency situations?

• When the slow-whoop goes off /in the event of an evacuation

  When danger is imminent within a campus building, the evacuation alarm slow-whoop may be triggered. A slow-whoop sound is a clearly recognisable and easily audible, low-to-high bellowing sound signal repeated at a regular pace. Sometimes instructions on evacuation are given through loudspeakers.  

  1. On hearing the slow-whoop signal and/or evacuation instructions, leave the building immediately via the designated escape routes (the green escape signs) or as instructed by the company emergency response team. Take only personal belongings with you. Help others who have reduced self-reliance.  
  2. After you have left the building, go to the assembly point indicated for that purpose (see Meeting point for each building in the event of a disaster). 
  3. It is important that you go to the designated assembly point so that the company emergency response team and the emergency services can get an idea of the progress of the evacuation. 

• In the event of an unwellness, accident or injury

  In life-threatening situations, i.e. when urgent medical assistance is needed, the following action can be taken:

  1. Alert an ambulance via 112. Communicate: 
     - what is going on (e.g. resuscitation, accident with injuries); - where help is needed (address details of the location of the accident).
  2. As soon as possible call (or arrange to call) the VU Amsterdam emergency number 020 598 2222 or internal 22222 and communicate location and nature of the incident and that an ambulance is on its way.
  3.  Stay with the victim until the emergency worker arrives.
  4.  Follow the instructions of security and/or in-house emergency response specialists.

• In the event of fire

  1. ​Break the emergency seal on the nearest alarm.
  2. Call the emergency number 22222 (internal) or 020 598 2222.
  3. Report your name, phone number, location and type of emergency.
  4. Close doors and windows.
  5. If possible: use a fire extinguisher or fire hose to extinguish any fire.

  If that fails: leave the building immediately according to the slow whoop/evacuation instructions.
  

• In the event of a dangerous/threatening situation

  1. Break the emergency seal on the nearest alarm.
  2. Call the emergency number 22222 (internal) or 020 598 2222.
  3. Report your name, phone number, location and type of emergency.
  4. When the slow whoop goes off: immediately leave the building according to the slow whoop/evacuation instructions.

• Evacuation with a (functional) impairment

  For instructions on evacuation with a (functional) impairment see this document (in Dutch).

• Overview of all emergency numbers and evacuation plan

  This emergency card is a convenient overview of all numbers and instructions such as escape routes and assembly points in the event of an emergency or evacuation. Keep this card in an easily accessible place.

• Meeting point for each building

  Calamity in:

  • Main building: gathering place W&N building
  • W&N building: gathering place Main building
  • MF building: gathering place W&N building
  • New University building: gathering place Main building
  • Initium: gathering place Main building
  • Research building: gathering place Gustav Mahlerlaan
  • Transitorium/CCE: gathering place MF building
  • O|2 Lab building: gathering place Gustav Mahlerlaan
  • OZW building: gathering place W&N building
  • Bellevue: gathering place W&N building
  • Botanical garden Zuidas: gathering place MF building
     

• Escaping buildings safely

  When there is danger in a campus building, the escape plan (slow whoop) may take effect. This can happen in case of fire or a bomb threat, but also a physical threat or accident with a dangerous substance. In these situations the company emergency response team (bhv) may ask people to leave the building (they can be recognised by their vests with the text bhv).

  In addition to the slow whoop signal, important information is often shared via the intercom, which is available in all buildings on campus. Go the to corridors if you cannot hear the message clearly.

  An escape plan of the building may be hindered when obstacles, such as tables, chairs or other goods are blocking the escape routes. Particularly in combination with smoke, dangerous situations may occur (limited sight and toxic air). Never use the escape routes as storage space and remove any goods blacking the routes as soon as possible.

  Awareness

  Be aware of available safety facilities in any study or work space. Make sure to navigate the emergency exit in the space you are in. When the alarm goes off, follow the green signs to the emergency exit.

  Alarm means react

  When focused on work, we are less likely to notice danger. We are inclined to finish the task or activity at hand first. When the alarm signal goes off, it is important to stop whatever you are doing immediately and start the evacuation.

  Only take things you need or that are valuable for you. Help students or colleagues who need it, such as someone with a physical disability. Close the door of the space you are leaving and go outside. Then go to the designated meeting points.

VU Security