Terminology

Safety is our top priority at Royal Roads. We work closely with the West Shore RCMP, Colwood Fire Department and other community partners to develop procedures to keep our community safe.

Familiarize yourself with the terminology below. If an emergency or safety situation occurs on campus, these are the terms we will use to communicate what is happening and what actions you should take.

Emergency terminology

Drop, Cover and Hold

Used in the event of an earthquake, explosion or event that shakes the campus.

When you feel shaking drop to the ground; take cover by getting under a sturdy desk or table; and hold on to it until the shaking stops.

Hold and Secure

Used when there is a security concern, such as a police incident or active threat, in the neighbourhood of RRU. The exterior doors of buildings should be locked, but normal duties may continue inside.

Lockdown

Used to prevent intruders from entering occupied areas of the campus or when it is necessary to isolate students and staff from a danger outside or within a building, e.g., active threat. All exterior and interior doors should be locked, blinds and windows closed and lights turned off. Normal activity stops.

Shelter in Place

Used as a short-term measure to protect students and staff from potential environmental dangers outdoors (e.g., weather-related emergencies or dangerous wild animal on campus).

Evacuate

Used to move people out of a building or off campus due to a hazard. Evacuations may be required in the event of floods, fire or a bomb threat.

All Clear

Used once emergency personnel deem a building or area safe from a potential incident or hazard. Regular activities may resume.