University issues response to elevated Homeland Security threat level, March 18

University issues response to elevated Homeland Security threat level, March 18

In response to the federal Department of Homeland Security elevatingthe threat level to "condition orange" (high) based on the situation inIraq, Princeton University today alerted the campus community thatheightened security measures are in place and that the University iswell prepared to respond to emergency situations.

The update followed a meeting of the Emergency Preparedness TaskForce to review procedures that ensure the security of students, faculty and staff.

"While Princeton, like many national treasures, is susceptible tobeing targeted, we have not received any terrorist threats. At thistime of heightened security concerns, we all can do our parts bycontinuing our normal activities while remaining vigilant and followingsound emergency preparedness procedures," said Charles Kalmbach, seniorvice president for administration.

Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to keep informed ofimportant University alerts by regularly checking the PrincetonUniversity home page and theirpersonal e-mail and voice-mail systems. Members of the Universitycommunity wishing to familiarize themselves with emergency procedures,planning and prevention tips can review information posted on the taskforce Web site .Natural disasters, fires and hazardous material spills are among thetypes of emergencies that are covered in the University's emergencypreparedness plans. In the event of an actual emergency, the campuscommunity will be notified and instructed through the Web, e-mail and voice mail.

Princeton University will remain vigilant in monitoring changes incurrent local and national conditions. All essential University units -- including the Department of Public Safety , the Office of Environmental Health and Safety , University Health Services and the Departments of Facilities -- have taken active measures to create, update and maintain emergencyplans and procedures. University officials also have established anetwork of reliable local, state, regional and national authoritieswhose services may be enlisted depending on the nature of an actualemergency.

Public Safety has issued guidelines on what the heightened state of security means, along with tips andprocedures for noticing and reporting suspicious behavior orcircumstances. For more information about safety and security at Princeton University, contact Public Safety at (609) 258-3134.

Recognizing that times of heightened alerts can be stressful andemotionally trying, students, faculty and staff experiencing anysymptoms related to physical or psychological stress should contactUniversity Health Services at (609) 258-3141.

University community members with other questions or concerns cancontact a variety of resources, including the Office of the VicePresident of Campus Life, (609) 258-3056; the Office of the Dean ofUndergraduate Students, (609) 258-3055; the Office of the Dean of theGraduate School, (609) 258-3030; the Office of Religious Life, (609)258-3042; or the Employee Assistance Program, (609) 258-1875.